When preparing the sub-base, ensure a slight slope (around 1-2%) away from any buildings or structures to direct water runoff. Use a straight edge or a screed bar to level the tarmac and remove any high or low spots, ensuring an even surface. Compact the sub-base material using a plate compactor or roller, making multiple passes to ensure a firm and stable foundation. You may need to add additional crushed stone or aggregate and re-compact as necessary to achieve the desired depth and compaction.

A well-installed tarmac driveway offers numerous benefits, such as durability, cost-effectiveness, low maintenance requirements, and an attractive appearance. Compactor (plate or roller): Required for compacting the sub-base and the tarmac layers, ensuring a stable and long-lasting driveway.The bow rake looks very similar to the garden rake. The difference is in how the head attaches to the handle. The garden rake, also called the flat head rake, attaches directly to the handle using a single connection and forms a T shape or a flat head. A bow rake has arched supports that attach to either end of the rake and gives the head more stability, making it stronger and more beneficial for moving materials like gravel and mulch. Ground coverings such as chipping and bark can be moved, gathered into mounds or spread level with most garden rakes. You can scrape over ground materials with the tines and flat edges of the rake, moving, levelling or grading across a surface. Garden rakes can also be used to spread fairly heavy materials like gravel and pebbles. Using a wheelbarrow or a paver, transport the tarmac to the driveway and deposit it in a line along one edge. We recommend the Revolt Forged Tarmac Rake. This heavy-duty tool has a rugged construction, making it ideal for daily use by professionals in tough working environments. You can use it for levelling out tarmac as well as other building materials.

Tarmac spreader (lute or asphalt rake): A specialized tool for spreading and leveling the tarmac, helping to achieve a smooth and even surface. The sub-base serves as a stable foundation for the tarmac driveway, supporting the weight of vehicles and distributing it evenly. A garden rake can be held vertically to tamp or compact soil. This is useful for firming the soil in a bed once seeds have been planted, or to create a firm surface for laying out turf. Regular cleaning: Keep your driveway clean by sweeping away dirt, debris, and leaves. Use a hose or pressure washer to wash away stains or spills, and consider using a mild detergent for stubborn marks. Compact the tarmac using a vibratory plate compactor or a roller, making multiple passes to achieve a dense and stable surface. Be sure to compact the edges of the driveway as well.To work out how much sub-base you need use this simple formula: Length of driveway x width x depth of sub-base or you can visit our type 1 mot calculator Laying and Compacting the Sub-base Material Applying finishing touches, such as sealing the tarmac and adding decorative elements, to protect and improve the driveway’s appearance.

By installing edging around your tarmac driveway, you will enhance its appearance and ensure a stable and well-defined boundary, contributing to the overall success of your project. Laying the Tarmac Driveway Preparing and mixing the tarmac We recommend the Revolt Aluminium Spazzle which is ideal for levelling and manoeuvring tarmac and a variety of loose materials. Adding edging around the driveway to define the boundaries, prevent tarmac spreading, and enhance the overall appearance. Laying the tarmac by spreading, leveling, and compacting the mixture to create a durable and smooth surface.

Gathering leaves and garden debris

In addition, tarmac driveways provide excellent resistance to various weather conditions and can be easily repaired if damaged. Shovels: Essential for digging and removing any existing driveway material, as well as for spreading the crushed stone and tarmac. Lay a thin layer of sand or fine crushed stone in the trench to create a level surface for the edging material. Protecting the edges: The edges of your tarmac driveway are more vulnerable to damage from vehicles driving off the edge or heavy loads. Installing edging, as mentioned earlier, can help protect and maintain the driveway’s boundaries.