If you are thinking of choosing the right surface for your driveway, car park, or any other paved area, the decision often comes down to two popular materials: tarmac and concrete. Both offer distinct benefits, but which one is right for your project? Whether you’re looking for something cost-effective and durable or a surface that offers more design flexibility, understanding the key differences between tarmac and concrete is essential.
Since 1991, Swift Surfacing Ltd, a trusted tarmac contractor, has been helping homeowners and businesses in London and Kent make the best surfacing decisions. With our expert team and quality service, we ensure your project is completed with precision and care.
Need help choosing the best option for your surfacing needs? Email us your requirements at estimated@swiftsurfacing.co.uk for a free consultation and quote. Or call us on 0208 0153745 (London) or 01233 222593 (Kent), and let our experts help you!
Swift Surfacing Ltd delivers high-quality, durable surfacing solutions across London and Kent, ensuring exceptional craftsmanship and customer satisfaction every time.
What Is Tarmac?
Tarmac, known as asphalt, combines aggregates (sand, gravel, and crushed stones) with a binder such as bitumen. When heated, the mixture becomes a smooth, durable, and flexible surface that is perfect for various applications. Due to its reliability and ease of installation, tarmac is widely used in road construction, driveways, car parks, and playgrounds.
What Is Concrete?
Concrete is a composite material made of cement, water, aggregates (sand, gravel, or crushed stone), and sometimes additives. When mixed, it forms a paste that hardens over time to create a solid, firm surface. Concrete is commonly used in pavements, driveways, parking lots, and other construction projects requiring a durable, long-lasting surface.
Tarmac Vs. Concrete: Key Differences
The most significant differences between tarmac and concrete are their composition, installation processes, and appearance. Let’s break it down.
1. Durability
- Tarmac: Tarmac is known for its flexibility and durability. It can withstand extreme weather conditions and is less likely to crack under pressure than concrete. Tarmac surfaces tend to last 15-20 years and sometimes even longer.
- Concrete is a more complex, rigid material that makes it incredibly durable, often lasting 30 years or more. However, it is more prone to cracking over time due to the natural expansion and contraction caused by weather changes, especially in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
Verdict: Concrete generally has a longer lifespan, but tarmac offers more flexibility and is less susceptible to cracking.
2. Cost
- Tarmac: Tarmac is usually more cost-effective than concrete. The materials and labour required to install tarmac are typically cheaper, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners and businesses. The cost of a tarmac driveway is often significantly lower than the cost of a concrete driveway.
- Concrete: Concrete is a more expensive option in terms of materials and installation costs. The preparation and curing process takes longer, and the labour is typically more intensive.
Verdict: Tarmac is the more affordable, while concrete is a larger upfront investment.
3. Installation Time
- Tarmac: The installation of tarmac surfaces is quick and efficient. Typically, a tarmac driveway or road can be laid within a day or two, making it ideal for projects that must be completed quickly.
- Concrete: Concrete surfaces require more installation time, as they must be mixed, poured, and left to cure. The curing process can take several days, which may delay your project.
Verdict: Tarmac is faster to install, while concrete requires more time for both installation and curing.
4. Maintenance
- Tarmac: Tarmac surfaces are relatively low-maintenance. However, they may need to be sealed every few years to maintain their durability and prevent water infiltration. Regular inspection for cracks and minor repairs will help prolong the surface’s lifespan.
- Concrete: Concrete surfaces are low-maintenance but may require periodic sealing to prevent cracking and staining. While they don’t require as frequent repairs as tarmac, they can be more challenging and costly when cracks occur.
Verdict: Tarmac requires frequent sealing and minor repairs, while concrete is low-maintenance but may need costly repairs when cracks appear.
5. Aesthetics
- Tarmac: Tarmac surfaces are typically dark and uniform, offering a simple, sleek look. While tarmac can be customised with different colours and textures, the range of aesthetic options is more limited than concrete.
- Concrete: Concrete offers a wide range of aesthetic options. It can be stamped, coloured, and textured to mimic the appearance of stone, brick, or even wood. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a more customised or decorative surface.
Verdict: Concrete is more customisable and offers more design options than tarmac.
6. Environmental Impact
- Tarmac: Tarmac is recyclable and often made from recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice. Producing tarmac involves fewer carbon emissions than concrete, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
- Concrete: The cement production process emits a significant amount of CO2, which increases concrete’s carbon footprint. However, concrete surfaces are long-lasting and require less frequent repairs, which can reduce their overall environmental impact.
Verdict: Tarmac has a smaller environmental footprint than concrete, making it a more eco-friendly option.
Pros And Cons Of Tarmac
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Quick and easy installation
- Flexible and durable
- Eco-friendly and recyclable
- Minimal maintenance required
Cons:
- Limited aesthetic options
- It may need to be resealed periodically
- Susceptible to fading and discoloration over time
Pros And Cons Of Concrete
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Customisable in terms of design
- Low-maintenance
- Ideal for high-traffic areas
Cons:
- Expensive
- Can crack over time
- Requires more time to install
- Limited flexibility in colder climates
Tarmac Vs. Concrete: Which Is Right For You?
Now that you know the pros and cons of both tarmac and concrete, your choice largely depends on your needs, budget, and preferences.
Tarmac is ideal for those needing a cost-effective, quick, and durable surface. It’s also an excellent option for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance solution, particularly in driveways or areas with moderate weather conditions. Tarmac driveways are also the cheapest driveway options, offering durability and flexibility.
Concrete is better for those prioritising aesthetics, long-term durability, and customisation options. Depending on your specific needs, concrete or tarmac might be the right option if you invest more upfront in a surface that will last longer and offer more design flexibility.
CONTACT SWIFT SURFACING
Conclusion
Ultimately, both tarmac and concrete offer excellent benefits depending on your requirements.
At Swift Surfacing Ltd, we are trusted and reliable tarmac contractors. We have years of experience working with both materials and can help you make the right choice for your surfacing needs. We can also guide with pothole repair whether you’re looking for a quick, affordable solution or a long-lasting, customised surface.
Ready to transform your driveway, parking lot, or road surface? Call 0208 0153745 (London) or 01233 222593 (Kent) or email us at estimated@swiftsurfacing.co.uk today for expert advice and a no-obligation quote. With offices in London and Kent, we provide high-quality, durable surfacing materials that meet your needs and budget.