We’re highly experienced in providing both Tarmac and asphalt surfaces to trade and domestic customers alike, delivering both the expertise and the materials needed to get every job done right. But in order to get the best solution for your application, it’s important to understand the key differences and attributes between the two. Which one is right for your project?
Tarmac & Asphalt: Sealed-surface solutions for light and heavy usage
Tarmac / Asphalt . . . What's the difference?
Tarmac: high strength, high traction
Officially known as Tarmacadam, this surfacing material consists of granite stone (14mm to 20mm) and sand, mixed with hot bitumen and laid at an industry-standard thickness. This creates either a durable and strong “base course” layer, or a “wearing course” top layer which uses 6mm to 10mm granite for a finer finish.
A top-coat can then be applied if required to create a more vivid colour, increase water resistance and improve the surface grip. The thickness of the surface and the foundation coat can be varied, depending on the strength required from it in order to withstand its normal use. This makes it ideal for supporting heavy vehicles like 4×4, vans and SUVs on driveways, for example.
Asphalt: economical, easy to maintain
Asphalt is made from a mixture of aggregates and bitumen, and while it doesn’t offer the durability and strength of tarmac, it is much easier to maintain, and can be removed and reprocessed if no longer required. This means that an asphalt solution is generally cheaper than a Tarmac one and is better for the environment, making it more suitable for light automotive use, cycle paths or footpaths.
Get your new Tarmac or asphalt surface today
Whether Tarmac or asphalt, we can create a solution that meets the needs of your project perfectly. Get in touch with Atlas today and we’ll give you a free, no-obligation quote.