Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between tarmac and asphalt driveways?
Some people get confused between tarmac and asphalt. These are two different yet both commonly used road surfacing materials. To the ordinary eye, the difference can be hard to identify. Tarmac (also called Tarmacadam) and asphalt are both waterproof, sturdy surfaces often used in driveways.
However, tarmac is used more commonly in high traffic areas and on commercial projects, while asphalt is more often used in residential driveways as it is slightly smoother and most people prefer the look of it.
How do you install a tarmac or asphalt driveway?
The most common issues you see with improperly installed tarmac and asphalt driveways are pooling and sinking. This happens when shortcuts are taken during the preparation stages.
A trusted and highly rated company like Master Driveway Paving Dublin will ensure that the proper steps are taken to avoid any problems and leave you with a tarmac or asphalt driveway that will stand the test of time. Here’s how we do it:
- To begin, the necessary depth is achieved by digging out the ground. 804 hardcore is then laid down and compacted heavily. This will ensure a solid surface to lay the tarmac or asphalt onto.
- To ensure the highest quality finish, we only use Tarmac from our trusted source, Roadstone, who have an excellent reputation.
- Sometimes, we will be asked to install some paving to enhance the plain appearance of tarmac. This is commonly added around the edges. We can also create any shapes including squares, circles and diamonds to make your driveway really stand out. Any material can be used for this including cobblelock and slabs or setts of granite, limestone, sandstone and quartz.
- Our technicians will spread the hot asphalt or tarmac liberally over the area to be covered. First, the material will be hand-rolled and finally, it will be rolled using a large roller or plate compactor.
If you need us to, we can call out and give you a 100% free consultation. We will show you various designs, answer any questions you may have and tell if you will need any additional work, such as adding drainage, to be carried out before we place your tarmac driveway.
Call us today to get your 100% free, no-obligation quote. Or you can email us at or fill out our contact form on the website.
How long does an asphalt driveway last?
Depending on the quality of materials and installation, your asphalt driveway should last anywhere between 12 and 20 years. Other factors that influence the lifespan of asphalt driveways are the elements it’s exposed to over time as well as the level of care and maintenance.
After installation, asphalt driveway maintenance is possibly the most important factor in ensuring a long-lasting and good-looking driveway. This typically includes sealing for extra protection, regular cleaning, and tending to any cracks as soon as they appear.
How long do you have to stay off a new asphalt driveway?
Once our skilled technicians have installed your new asphalt driveway, we recommend that you don’t step on the freshly paved surface during the first day after installation. While 24 hours is typically enough, you may want to extend the period to two days if you live in a warm climate as the surface would take longer to cool down.
Is rain bad for a new asphalt driveway?
If you’ve decided to hire reliable asphalt driveway contractors in the Dublin area, you should keep in mind that the installation may have to be postponed due to rain. Asphalt can’t be installed when it’s raining or if the ground is wet due to the fact that rain will cause the oil in the asphalt to rise up to the surface, affecting the asphalt healing process.
If it rains during asphalt installation, the end result is likely to be jeopardized, both in terms of aesthetic appeal and longevity. Rain can cause cracks to form in the asphalt paving slabs which may lead to more severe damage if the deterioration is allowed to continue.
How often do you need to seal an asphalt driveway?
In general, asphalt driveways should be sealed every one to three years. If you’re unsure if it is time to apply the sealer, you can look at the individual slabs and see if you can notice a colour difference between them. If that’s the case, sealing the asphalt driveway would be in order.
It’s important to note here that you should never seal a freshly laid asphalt driveway. This is because the oils in the asphalt need at least six months to completely evaporate, meaning that your driveway won’t cure properly if it’s sealed before achieving its optimal hardness. Also, you should make sure to seal your asphalt driveway when it’s during warmer weather and at least two days before any forecast rain.
Who should I hire for asphalt driveway & patio paving slabs in Dublin?
If you wish to have an asphalt driveway expertly installed at a fair cost, look no further than Master Driveway Paving Dublin. As some of the best driveway and patio paving experts in Dublin, we offer a vast selection of high-quality materials and modern designs. In addition to being the go-to experts for paving gravel driveways, you can also rely on us for beautiful gravel driveways and patios, as well as the finest crushed stone driveways in the area.
In fact, Master Driveway Paving Dublin is the favorite driveway paving company for both residential and commercial property owners in and around Dublin. You can count on us to transform your property in Ballymount or enhance the value of your home in Beaumont or anywhere else in the area. Contact us today!
