Common Types of Tarmac Damage Ramsgate
When properly installed, tarmac and asphalt surfaces can deliver decades of reliable service; however, minor installation defects such as inadequate edging in critical areas, diesel spillages, or poor compaction can result in surface depressions, undulations, and deterioration of your driveway in Ramsgate.
Prior to commencing any repair work in Ramsgate, our tarmac contractors evaluate the underlying cause of the damage. The most frequent problems we encounter include:
- Surface cracks resulting from weather exposure or ground settlement
- Potholes developing from water penetration and freeze-thaw action
- Edge breakdown where the tarmac borders grass or gravel surfaces
- Sunken areas arising from inadequate sub-base preparation or excessive loading
- Surface ravelling where the bitumen binding agent has deteriorated
How We Repair The Tarmac / Asphalt
Initial Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough examination of the damaged area to establish whether a localized patch repair is adequate or if a more extensive section requires resurfacing. Individual isolated defects typically respond well to patching, whereas extensive cracking or numerous potholes generally suggest that complete resurfacing represents the most cost-effective long-term approach.
Preparation Work
Thorough preparation forms the foundation of any durable repair. We utilize a disc cutter to remove the damaged section, creating clean, vertical edges. This ensures the repair material integrates properly rather than merely overlaying compromised tarmac. When addressing potholes, we extract all loose material and inspect the underlying sub-base. Should the sub-base prove inadequate, we excavate deeper and compact fresh aggregate material before applying any tarmac.
Applying the Repair Material
Hot bitumen tarmac is our preferred material for most repairs due to its superior bonding characteristics compared to cold-lay alternatives. The repair area receives a tack coat of bitumen emulsion to enhance adhesion between the new material and the existing surface. We then apply the tarmac in successive layers, ensuring thorough compaction of each layer using a vibrating plate or roller, selected according to the repair dimensions.
Finishing and Compaction
The final surface undergoes rolling to achieve a level and finish consistent with the surrounding area. We intentionally overfill the repair slightly, accounting for material settlement during the compaction process. Special attention is devoted to the edges—adequate compaction in these areas is critical to prevent future deterioration.
When to Consider Full Resurfacing
When your tarmac exhibits numerous damaged areas or the surface has exceeded 15-20 years of age, repairing individual locations may prove uneconomical. At Driveways Ramsgate, we provide transparent assessments regarding whether repairs offer genuine value or if resurfacing the complete area represents the superior solution.
For guidance on tarmac repairs in Ramsgate, contact us at 01227 915186.
