My Tarmac Is Cracking: What Should I Do?
Tarmac is one of the most popular driveway materials in Bury St Edmunds thanks to its durability and smooth finish. However, even the toughest surfaces can develop cracks over time due to weather, usage, and general wear. If you’ve noticed cracks forming on your driveway, it’s important to take action quickly. Bury St Edmunds Driveway Solutions is here to help you understand why cracks appear and what you can do to fix them.
Why Tarmac Driveways Crack
Cracks can appear for several reasons, and identifying the cause is the first step to restoring your driveway.
Common Causes of Cracks
- Weather Extremes – Heat can cause tarmac to expand and soften, while freezing conditions make it brittle, leading to cracks.
- Water Infiltration – Water that seeps into tiny gaps can freeze, expand, and widen existing cracks.
- Heavy Vehicles – Repeated pressure from cars, vans, or delivery vehicles can cause stress fractures.
- Poor Drainage – Standing water can weaken the base layer, resulting in surface damage.
- Ageing Surface – Over time, the binder in tarmac can dry out, making it more susceptible to cracking.
Assessing the Severity of the Damage
Before you decide on a solution, it’s important to assess the extent of the cracks.
- Hairline Cracks – These are often surface-level and can be repaired quickly to prevent further damage.
- Medium Cracks – Larger than hairline cracks, they may require patching or resealing.
- Alligator Cracks – A series of interconnected cracks resembling a reptile’s skin indicate underlying structural issues that may need resurfacing.
What to Do When You Notice Cracks
Taking swift action will prevent small cracks from becoming major repairs.
Steps You Can Take
- Clean the Surface – Remove dirt and debris so you can see the full extent of the damage.
- Seal Minor Cracks – Professional crack sealing stops water from getting in and causing further harm.
- Patch Larger Areas – Damaged sections can be cut out and replaced with new tarmac.
- Consider Resurfacing – If your driveway has widespread damage, resurfacing may be the most cost-effective long-term solution.
- Check Drainage – Ensure water flows away from the driveway to prevent future problems.
Preventing Future Cracks
At Bury St Edmunds Driveway Solutions, we recommend regular maintenance to keep your driveway in peak condition.
- Annual Inspection – Spotting issues early helps you take corrective action before cracks worsen.
- Resealing – Applying a protective layer every few years keeps tarmac flexible and weather-resistant.
- Proper Weight Management – Avoid parking heavy vehicles in the same spot repeatedly.
- Edge Protection – Installing edging prevents crumbling along the sides of the driveway.
Conclusion
Cracks in your tarmac don’t have to mean a full replacement — but ignoring them can make the problem worse. Acting quickly with professional repair and regular maintenance will keep your driveway looking good and performing well for years. Bury St Edmunds Driveway Solutions offers expert advice and solutions to restore and protect your driveway, helping you get the most out of your investment.
Call us on: 01284 331 496
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