Eastbourne Driveway Quotes

Home / Tarmac driveways

Tarmac driveways in Eastbourne

Usually the lowest cost hard surface, quick to lay and good for larger drives.

Tarmac (asphalt) is laid hot over a compacted stone base and rolled smooth. It is quick, hard wearing and good value for larger areas, such as longer drives in Ratton and Willingdon.

Tarmac driveway, cross-sectionLayers from top: surface course about 20 mm, binder course 50 to 60 mm, compacted Type 1 sub-base about 150 mm, ground. Water runs off the surface. Rain runs off the surface, so it needs falls and a drainSurface course (fine tarmac)about 20 mmBinder course50 to 60 mmType 1 sub-base, compactedabout 150 mmGround
Tarmac driveway, cross-section. Standard tarmac sheds water, so on a front garden it must fall to a border, lawn or a linear channel feeding a soakaway, never to the road. Typical build-up only. Your installer will confirm the specification for your site.

Drainage

Standard tarmac is not permeable, so it needs to fall to a channel and soakaway inside your boundary. Porous asphalt is available but less common for homes.

Eastbourne points

  • Tarmac softens in hot sun, so avoid parking on fresh tarmac on a summer afternoon, and expect slight marks from tight turning
  • Red or buff tarmac, or a block paved edging, lifts the look
  • Be wary of doorstep offers of "leftover tarmac", a well known scam

Rough cost

Per m², supplied and laid£45 to £80
Time on site1 to 3 days

Breaking out an old drive, drainage and a dropped kerb add to this. See the cost guide.

Common questions

How long does tarmac last?

Typically 15 to 20 years with a good base.

Can tarmac go over concrete?

Sometimes, if the concrete is sound. Your installer will check.

Get a free driveway quote

Takes a minute. One vetted Eastbourne installer gets in touch to arrange a free site visit.

Phone or email needed so the installer can reach you. Free, no obligation.

Ready for a price?

Tell us about your driveway and one vetted Eastbourne installer will arrange a free visit.

Request a free quote