A tired and worn down driveway that has visible cracks, potholes, and exposed aggregate is not only a kerb appeal killer but a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and other pedestrians using it. Thankfully, most of the issues associated with a worn-down driveway can be fixed with resurfacing.
Driveway Makeover: Transforming Your Entrance with Creative Resurfacing
A tired and worn down driveway that has visible cracks, potholes, and exposed aggregate is not only a kerb appeal killer but a safety hazard to you, your vehicle, and other pedestrians using it. Thankfully, most of the issues associated with a worn-down driveway can be fixed with resurfacing.
Driveway resurfacing is the interface (middle ground) between carrying out minor repairs on your driveway and completely replacing it. Basically, resurfacing performs the function of repairing widespread driveway damage without any of the inconvenience or expense of a total replacement. It is a long-term solution for repairing cracks, stains, exposed aggregate, and potholes whilst giving your driveway the makeover it needs.
There are several driveway resurfacing materials available on the market today, and going for the best material in terms of durability and appearance is the only surefire way to ensure that your newly resurfaced driveway doesn’t develop problems in the near future.
Below are some of the best resurfacing materials to consider for your driveway makeover.
Tarmac Resurfacing
Tarmac resurfacing involves the application of a fresh thin layer of tarmac over the top of an existing asphalt, concrete, or hard-wearing stone surface. This type of overlay can also be used on pathways and curbs that have a soft, cracked existing pavement of either bitumen or concrete.
Known for its dark and textured appearance, tarmac is a highly durable material that leaves your driveway with a sleek look that is good for kerb appeal. Its textured finish offers great skid resistance, which means that ice and snow won’t be accumulating on its surface.
Resurfacing your asphalt, concrete, or tarmac driveway also gives them a lifespan of between 12-15 years with minimal maintenance, and if a high-quality sealant is also used, this lifespan can be further extended to 20 years. The only downside to this type of resurfacing is that tarmac has limited colour options, but its high resistance to fading does make up for it.
Tar & Chip Surfacing
This type of resurfacing results in a surface that is quite similar in appearance to tarmac surfacing. Tar and chip driveways are, however, much cheaper to install than tarmac, which is why they are a recommended choice for rural homes that have very long driveways. The resurfacing process involves covering a hot bitumen surface with stone aggregate. Once the curing is complete, tar and chip leave a surface that is not only hard-wearing (can last up to 10 years) but low maintenance. Their rough surface also provides great traction for vehicles.
Tar and chip driveways do, however, have low permeability, so a drainage system will need to be put in place.
Resin-Bound Surfacing
If you’re looking to give your driveway an aesthetic makeover, resin-bound surfacing is the most decorative choice you can go for, as its natural finish mimics the look of gravel. The stones are coated with resin for improved structural stability, and the very small (minuscule) voids between the stones make them very permeable. This means that water can easily filter through, and you won’t have to deal with drainage issues.
Lasting well over 20 years with proper maintenance, resin-bound surfacing is a sustainable and practical option that also offers a wide range of colour, texture, and pattern choices.
Block Paving
This is when slabs, flags, or small blocks of concrete are placed over a sand bed or on top of a compressed hardcore. With block paving resurfacing, you will be spoilt for choice in terms of shape, style, colours, and other design options. It is an excellent choice for matching your driveway to your property. When laid correctly, block paving offers great durability. It also looks neat and requires minimal maintenance.
Gravel Surfacing
This is a low-cost surfacing solution that is very popular with larger rural properties. During the resurfacing process, the gravel will be laid in up to 4 layers of stones, with each layer rolled and left for 24 hours before the next coat. Edging will also be required to keep the gravel in place, and depending on the quality of the hardcore underneath, you might need to top up the levels from time to time.
Apart from being a very cheap driveway resurfacing option, gravel offers great permeability, so there will be no issues with drainage. It is also very eco-friendly.
Conclusion
Driveway resurfacing is an excellent way to extend the lifespan of your driveway and transform the entrance of your home. There are different types of driveway resurfacing materials, some better than others. Gravel, resin-bound, tar and chip, block paving, and tarmac are some of the common driveway resurfacing materials that offer a wide range of benefits from durability, weather, and skid resistance to permeability and aesthetic appeal.
