What Causes Tarmac to Deteriorate Prematurely?

Tarmac is one of the most popular driveway surfaces in the UK, valued for its strength, smooth finish, and affordability. Yet, despite its durability, many homeowners in Reigate, Surrey, find that their tarmac surfaces begin to deteriorate sooner than expected. Understanding what causes this premature wear can help you protect your investment and keep your driveway looking its best. At NS Driveways Reigate, we specialise in high-quality tarmac installations and know exactly what factors can reduce their lifespan.

Common Causes of Premature Tarmac Damage

1. Poor Installation Practices

One of the leading causes of early deterioration is poor installation. If the base layer is not properly compacted or the tarmac mix is applied incorrectly, the surface will lack the strength needed to withstand daily use.

2. Heavy Vehicle Traffic

Driveways subjected to repeated use by heavy vehicles can develop ruts, cracks, and depressions over time. Tarmac is durable, but like all materials, it has limits when exposed to excessive weight.

3. Weather and Temperature Changes

The British climate plays a significant role in tarmac deterioration.

• Heat – Prolonged high temperatures can soften tarmac, making it more vulnerable to scuffing and surface wear.
  
• Frost – Water seeps into small cracks, freezes, and expands, causing damage to the surface in winter months.
  

4. Water Drainage Issues

Standing water is one of tarmac’s worst enemies. Poor drainage leads to pooling, which weakens the surface structure and encourages cracking and potholes.

5. Oil and Chemical Spills

Petrol, diesel, and oil spills dissolve the binders that hold tarmac together. Over time, this results in soft spots, crumbling edges, and weakened areas that quickly break down under pressure.

6. UV Exposure

Constant sunlight can dry out the surface, causing fading and brittleness. As the tarmac loses flexibility, it becomes more prone to cracking.

7. Lack of Maintenance

Even the toughest driveway needs occasional care. Failure to sweep away debris, wash the surface, or repair small cracks early can allow minor damage to spread.

How to Extend the Life of Your Tarmac Driveway

• Ensure correct installation with a strong, well-compacted base.
  
• Manage vehicle weight by limiting heavy loads on domestic driveways.
  
• Maintain drainage to prevent standing water.
  
• Clean spills promptly to avoid chemical damage.
  
• Inspect regularly and repair cracks or small defects early.
  

Why Choose NS Driveways Reigate

At NS Driveways Reigate, we combine professional installation techniques with quality materials to ensure tarmac driveways in Reigate, Surrey, stand the test of time. Our team understands the local climate and ground conditions, helping homeowners avoid the common pitfalls that lead to premature deterioration.

Conclusion

Tarmac remains a highly reliable surface for driveways, but its longevity depends on correct installation, regular maintenance, and awareness of environmental factors. By addressing these issues early, homeowners can extend the life of their driveway and avoid costly repairs. For expert tarmac driveways in Reigate, Surrey, NS Driveways Reigate provides durable solutions designed to last.

Call us on: 01737 301 372
Click here to find out more about NS Driveways Reigate
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your driveways.