Is Your Tarmac Surface Starting to Crack? Here’s Why It Happens

Tarmac driveways are a popular choice for homeowners in Kempston, Bedfordshire, due to their durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, like any other surface, tarmac can begin to show signs of wear and tear over time. One common issue that many homeowners face is the development of cracks in their tarmac surface. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind these cracks and what you can do to address the problem before it worsens.

1. Age and Wear

Over time, your tarmac driveway is subjected to constant use, exposure to the elements, and the weight of vehicles. As the surface ages, it naturally starts to lose its strength and elasticity, which can lead to cracks.

Key factors contributing to wear:

• UV exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can break down the surface, causing it to become brittle and more susceptible to cracking.
  
• Weathering: Constant exposure to the elements, such as rain, snow, and ice, can cause the tarmac to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
  
• Heavy traffic: The weight of vehicles, especially heavier ones, can cause pressure on the surface, resulting in cracks over time.
  

While tarmac is designed to be durable, its lifespan can be affected by prolonged exposure to these factors. As your driveway gets older, cracks may begin to appear more frequently.

2. Improper Installation

Another reason tarmac surfaces develop cracks is due to improper installation. If your driveway was not installed correctly, it may have weak spots or an inadequate foundation, making it more prone to cracking over time.

Installation issues that lead to cracking:

• Poor preparation: If the base layer was not properly prepared or compacted, the tarmac may not have a solid foundation, leading to uneven settlement and cracking.
  
• Incorrect mixing: If the tarmac mix was not done properly, it can result in a brittle surface that is prone to cracks.
  
• Inadequate drainage: Poor drainage during installation can lead to water pooling on the surface, which weakens the tarmac and causes cracking.
  

Ensuring proper installation is key to prolonging the life of your tarmac driveway and preventing early cracking.

3. Water Damage and Poor Drainage

Water is one of the most common causes of cracks in tarmac surfaces. If water is not properly directed away from your driveway, it can seep into the surface, causing it to weaken and crack over time. Water can also get trapped under the tarmac, leading to frost damage in colder months.

How water causes cracking:

• Pooling water: If the driveway is not sloped properly, water may pool on the surface, leading to the weakening of the tarmac over time.
  
• Frost heave: In areas with cold winters, water that enters cracks in the tarmac can freeze and expand, causing further cracking during the freeze-thaw cycles.
  
• Subsurface water: Water that seeps beneath the surface can erode the base layer, causing the tarmac to sink and crack.
  

Regularly checking your tarmac driveway for drainage issues and addressing them early can help prevent water-related damage.

4. Tree Roots and Ground Movement

Tree roots and ground movement can also contribute to cracks in your tarmac driveway. Roots can push against the surface, causing it to crack and lift, while soil movement can affect the stability of the base, leading to surface cracks.

The impact of tree roots and ground movement:

• Roots pushing upwards: Tree roots growing beneath or near your driveway can exert pressure on the tarmac, leading to cracks or raised areas.
  
• Soil settlement: Shifting soil beneath the driveway can cause the surface to sink or become uneven, resulting in cracks.
  
• Root intrusion: If tree roots are allowed to grow unchecked, they can penetrate the tarmac and cause significant damage.
  

Addressing these issues early by managing tree growth and ensuring the stability of the ground beneath your driveway can prevent long-term damage.

5. Vehicle Pressure and Weight

Heavy vehicles, especially those that are frequently driven over the surface, can cause cracks and other forms of damage to tarmac driveways. The constant pressure from vehicles can cause the surface to weaken, resulting in cracks that worsen over time.

How vehicle pressure causes damage:

• Heavy loads: Larger vehicles, such as trucks or RVs, can exert more pressure on the tarmac, causing it to crack under the weight.
  
• Constant friction: Regular use of your driveway by cars can cause small fractures in the surface, which over time can develop into larger cracks.
  

If your driveway experiences heavy traffic, it’s essential to consider these factors and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Conclusion

Cracks in your tarmac driveway may seem like a minor issue at first, but they can lead to more significant problems if left untreated. Whether it’s due to age, improper installation, water damage, tree roots, or vehicle pressure, addressing these issues early can help you maintain the integrity of your driveway and avoid expensive repairs in the future.

If you’ve noticed cracks forming in your tarmac driveway, contact Kempston Driveways & Patios in Kempston, Bedfordshire, for expert advice and professional repair services. Our experienced team can assess the condition of your driveway and provide the right solutions to restore its appearance and functionality. Don’t let small cracks turn into big problems—get in touch with us today to ensure your driveway remains in top condition for years to come!

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