Tarmac Maintenance

Tarmac maintenance is essential for keeping surfaces safe, smooth, and looking their best. Regular upkeep, such as cleaning, sealing cracks, and applying protective coatings, helps prevent wear and tear from weather and traffic. By staying on top of maintenance, you can extend the life of your tarmac and avoid costly repairs down the line.

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How to Care for Your Tarmac Driveway or Patio

  • Looking After Your Tarmac Surface : Tarmac driveways and patios are robust and require minimal maintenance. With a bit of basic care, they will continue look clean and tidy for years to come. To help preserve your driveway or patio:
  • Avoid placing heavy items such as skips directly on the tarmac surface.
  • Do not leave vehicles parked in the same spot for extended periods.
  • Maintenance Tips for Tarmac Driveways : Sweep the surface with a stiff broom to clear away leaves, dirt, dust, and excess moisture. This helps to prevent the growth of moss and algae. After sweeping, a light pressure wash can help freshen the tarmac. Avoid using chemicals, as they may damage the surface.
  • Clean Up Oil and Fuel Spillages : Oil or fuel leaks from vehicles can leave unsightly stains on an otherwise immaculate tarmac driveway. It’s important to act quickly to remove any marks. Begin by scrubbing the affected area with warm, soapy water, then rinse off using a hose or light pressure washer. For larger or more stubborn oil stains, a degreasing agent may be required. Always test any chemical cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the tarmac.
  • Remove Tyre Marks : Tarmac driveways can sometimes show tyre marks, especially in warmer weather when the surface softens slightly. These marks often appear when wheels are turned while the vehicle is stationary or after a long drive when tyres are warm. To remove the marks, apply a mild washing-up liquid to the affected area and gently clean with a soft brush. Rinse off using a light pressure wash.
  • Regular Jet Washing :  It is advisable to carry out periodic light pressure washing of the tarmac surface. Take care not to use excessive pressure – a maximum of 150 bar is recommended – to prevent any potential damage. Always keep the jet washer nozzle at least 20 cm away from the surface during cleaning.
  • Removing Algae and Moss : Algae and moss typically develop in shaded, damp areas. If your tarmac driveway enjoys sunlight throughout the day, this is unlikely to be a concern. You may wish to trim back any plants or shrubbery to allow more sunlight to reach the surface, which can help to minimise growth. In most cases, regular sweeping and the occasional power wash should be sufficient to keep algae and moss at bay. If growth does occur on your tarmac surface, treating the area with a diluted bleach solution followed by a gentle power wash should effectively remove it.
  • Snow Removal : Use a plastic snow shovel to clear snow, as metal shovels may damage the tarmac surface.
  • Ice Removal : Applying salt or sand to prevent ice formation is generally acceptable on tarmac. Once the cold weather has passed, clean the surface using a light pressure wash or a stiff brush if needed.
  • Chewing Gum Removal : Avoid using sharp tools to scrape off chewing gum, as this can damage the tarmac. Instead, use a freezing spray to harden the gum and gently remove it.