Tarmac Driveway Or Block Paving
Fed up with your driveway cracking, looking dull or getting full of weeds? Tarmac driveways are cheaper and quick to put down, while block paving driveways offer colour variety and can last over 20 years.
This blog will help you pick between tarmac vs block paving by giving you clear facts on cost, upkeep, strength and style. Keep reading to find the best fit for your home!
Key Takeaways
- Tarmac driveways usually cost less, need simple upkeep and installers can complete them in about one day.
- Block paving offers more design options like various colours (e.g. brindle), shapes and patterns; it typically lasts over 20 years.
- Block paving requires sealing every two to three years to prevent weeds, while tarmac needs sealing roughly every five years.
- Tarmac surfaces often last between 12 and 20 years but can crack or soften under heat; block paving is stronger, lasting up to around 25 years with good care.
Advantages of Tarmac Driveways
Tarmac driveways give your home a smooth, smart look without emptying your bank account. They’re easy to care for, too—no need to fuss about weeds poking through cracks or stones shifting apart.
Cost-effectiveness
Choosing a tarmac driveway over block paving often keeps your wallet happy, thanks to lower material costs and simple installation. Asphalt or tarmac surfaces need fewer bricks, concrete slabs, or pavement stones, so you pay less overall.
Quick installation is common too – crews can lay an asphalt driveway in just one day – which means lower labour charges and fewer cups of tea for the builders.
If you fancy coloured tarmac for style points (think deep reds or earthy greens), it’s available but will cost more than regular black asphalt. Standard black asphalt still looks smart though, especially next to neighbours’ herringbone-patterned drives that were pricier to put down! After all:
A penny saved is a penny earned.
Low maintenance
A tarmac driveway comes with simple care needs, making your weekends easier and free from fuss. Due to its smooth surface, it resists water build-up, oil stains, and even mould growth very well—saving you effort in scrubbing stubborn marks off your drive.
Weed infiltration is also less likely on a tarmac surface compared to block paving, meaning less time spent pulling out unwanted green shoots between cracks. But expect occasional sweeping and washing now and then; sealing every five years helps prolong its good looks without too much hassle or cost.
Interesting video below on resin vs tarmac vs blocks
Advantages of Block Paving
Block paving lets you flex your creative muscles, with countless colours and stretcher bond patterns to spice up your driveway. And when rainy weather hits Ireland (which is often!), block paving handles it brilliantly, thanks to clever Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS).
This video below shows the full process of block paving:
Design versatility
A key perk of block paving is how far you can stretch your creativity. Fancy a bold shade like brindle or classic black? Block paving offers many colour options, letting you match your driveway to the garden shades and style.
Patterns such as stretcher bond add charm and class; even circles and curves can jazz up your outdoor space with ease.
Shapes vary too, from rectangles to squares or textured blocks, making block paving ideal for different looks to lift the mood outside. It works well next to sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), blending function with good design.
While we’ve tackled looks here, let’s see what makes it last by exploring its durability next.
Durability
Block paving stands firm against harsh Irish weather and heavy cars or vans. It’s more resilient than a tarmac driveway, lasting up to 25 years if installed correctly. Even better, cracked blocks can easily be lifted out and replaced.
This tough choice handles bad rainstorms, ice, snow or scorching heat far longer than asphalt or tarmac surfaces typically would. Proper sealing every two years with quality products keeps block paving strong for decades.
You’ll dodge nasty holes and worn spots common on the road outside your home if you choose durable block paving advantages.
Comparing Maintenance and Lifespan
Comparing the upkeep and lifespan of tarmac and block paving helps to understand their practical worth clearly.
| Aspect | Tarmac Driveway | Block Paving |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Frequency | Minimal upkeep, occasionally patching cracks due to improper installation or weather damage; less prone to weeds. | Needs sealing and weed treatment every 2-3 years; weeds often grow between blocks causing extra maintenance. |
| Common Issues | Cracking and puddle formation possible with poor installation; surface can soften in high temperatures. | Colour fades gradually under UV sunlight; uneven settlement of blocks can happen after heavy usage. |
| Environmental Resistance | More resistant to environmental factors like heavy rain, frost, and snow. | Less resistant; joints need regular upkeep to prevent weed growth and block displacement. |
| Lifespan Expectancy | Average lifespan of 12-20 years, shorter than block paving due to susceptibility to cracking and erosion. | Lasts roughly 20-25 years or longer with proper sealing and regular upkeep. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Picking between a tarmac driveway or block paving can feel tricky. Relax, making this call gets simpler if you consider these key points:
- Budget: Tarmac driveway cost is lower and suits tighter budgets; block paving costs sit mid-range and will stretch your pounds further.
- Design Style: If colour schemes and creative layouts top your wish list, go for block paving— it offers many shades and patterns to match your home’s look. Tarmac gives fewer choices, mostly staying within dark tones.
- Installation Time: Want it quick? A tarmac driveway can be laid in just one day, but block paving takes time—it demands a solid sub-base and needs more patience during fitting.
- Durability: Block paving usually lasts around 25 years, coping better with heavy use over the long term. Tarmac might need refreshing sooner if facing heavy traffic or harsh weather often.
- Upkeep Simplicity: Hate maintenance headaches? Tarmac wins clearly here—it’s smooth, easy to clean and patch up in case of minor cracks. Block paving can sprout weeds between blocks that might keep you busy pulling out greenery every so often.
- Home Value Boost: Eye-catching paved drives tend to give homes extra appeal when selling your property later on; buyers may pay slightly more for attractive paths and patios than simple tarmac ones.
- Weather Resistance: Wet Irish weather means drainage matters a lot; permeable block paving helps water drain away faster after rainstorms than sealed-off surfaces like asphalt or tarmac.
Conclusion
Your driveway sets the tone of your home, so take time to choose wisely. Tarmac driveways offer value and ease; block paving provides style and lasting strength over decades. Consider your budget, taste, weather conditions, and daily demands – then chat with a reliable driveway expert who can steer you right.
For expert paving solutions across Dublin – from driveways to garden paths – our team also shares insights at Patio Paving Dublin.
The best choice fits both your long-term plans and everyday life without hassle or regrets. After all, the perfect driveway greets you warmly each day; make sure it welcomes you home in comfort and charm!
Ready to get started? Request a quote today! Let our quality paving Dublin team deliver a job you’ll love.
FAQs
1. What's the real difference between asphalt vs tarmac for my driveway?
Glad you asked, because people often mix these two up. Asphalt is smoother and more flexible, while a tarmac driveway benefits from being tougher and cheaper to install. Think of asphalt as your comfy trainers, soft but wears quicker; tarmac’s like sturdy boots—built tough for heavy use.
2. Are there clear tarmac driveway benefits compared to block paving?
Absolutely! Tarmac driveways are quick to lay down, easy on the wallet and need less upkeep than block paving does. Block paving looks lovely but can be fiddly when weeds pop through gaps or bricks shift about over time.
3. Will I save money choosing a tarmac driveway instead of block paving?
Usually yes! A decent-looking tarmac job tends to cost far less upfront than fancy brickwork would set you back—and you’ll spend fewer pounds keeping it tidy too.
4. Which lasts longer: a well-laid block paved drive or solid old-fashioned tarmac?
Both can last ages if done right—but here’s the catch: blocks might look nicer at first glance yet demand regular care (think weeding sessions). Meanwhile trusty old-school blacktop quietly gets on with its job year after year without much fuss at all—one of those handy little-known tarmac driveway benefits homeowners love most!
I have over 20 years experience in tarmac and asphalt driveway installations. I know how to create a durable, long lasting surface that will withstand the daily grind and make a great first impression. My highly experienced, professional team and I make sure every job is done to the highest standard. Trust us to create a driveway that will last and make your property look great.