Surfacing

Asphalt is a mixture of aggregates, binder and filler, used for constructing and maintaining roads, parking areas, railway tracks, ports, airport runways, bicycle lanes, pathways and also play- and sport areas.

Asphalt is a modern variation of Tarmac in which the tar is replaced by bitumen (a byproduct of petroleum distillation). The aggregates used for asphalt mixtures could be crushed rock, sand, gravel or slags. Nowadays, certain waste and by-products, such as construction and demolition debris, are being used as aggregates, which increases the sustainability of asphalt.

Advantages of Asphalt

• Low maintenance costs - Asphalt driveways can be repaired easily and inexpensively. If an asphalt driveway begins to crack, you can easily and cheaply purchase crack sealant products
• Durable - Similarly to tarmac, asphalt is also strong, durable and long-lasting. Large cracks are less common for asphalt paving simply because of its flexibility. As asphalt is made of aggregate that is mixed into a petroleum-based binder, it is particularly flexible. This flexibility can also help asphalt driveways from freezing and thawing when temperatures drop below freezing.
• Affordable - One of the most appealing benefits of an asphalt driveway is that it is an affordable and cost-effective road surfacing material. It can be laid in just one or two days, and only takes two days to cure. The materials used to make asphalt are cheaper than the ones used to make concrete, allowing a more economical solution to labour costs.
• Less damaged by spills of diesel or petrol.
• More sustainable - Asphalt can be reclaimed when the surface gets old and can then be reused fairly easily elsewhere.

Resin-bound paving is a mixture of aggregate stones and UV resistant resin used to pave footpaths, driveways, etc. It is a kind of permeable paving solution.

It is a flexible surfacing material, so is resistant to cracking.

UV Resin-bound paving is a fully permeable paving solution which allows water to freely drain through the surface. Meeting the requirements of Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) standards, this helps to prevent standing water and largely eliminates surface water runoff.

Installation of resin takes up to 48 hours, after which you can start using your new driveway. Versatility is a huge advantage of resin driveways. There is a variety of colours and textures you can choose from.

Advantages of using a resin-bound material: 

• Durability - A resin bound driveway is laid over an existing tarmac or concrete surface. This makes the surface very durable and stops it from being worn down. The resin is resistant to UV light, so it won’t lose any colour or break down. Not only is a resin bound surface protected against wear and tear, it will retain its pristine appearance for years to come.

• Permeability - The mix of materials within a resin bound surface creates a high degree of porosity. This allows water to run off easily, benefiting nearby vegetation. Any plants will have good access to the water, promoting growth. The porous nature of resin bound surfacing also means that freeze damage will be lessened.

• Versatile Application - Resin bound surfacing is one of the most versatile options on the market. This is because of its non-slip qualities, durability and long lasting nature. It can be used for any number of surfaces, ranging from footpaths to wheelchair ramps.

Concrete is an engineering material that simulates the properties of rock and is a combination of particles closely bound together. It is a mix of aggregates, normally natural sand and gravel or crushed rock. These are bound together by a hydraulic binder such as Cement and activated by water to form a dense semi homogenous mass.

Concrete can be very useful in areas where a decorative look is not required, such as caravan hardstandings, shed and garage bases or dog kennels, yard spaces and driveways.

Modern concrete technology has led to the development of fibre reinforced concretes that create high-strength pavements without the need for steel reinforcement mesh, resulting in the most durable properties. 

See our “Concrete & Screed” section for more information.

Block paving offers versatility and a range of design options that few other materials can match. Not only is block paving attractive, but it is also very durable. And, if the need arises for parts of the drive to be lifted for groundworks and sewer/utilities servicing or install, the block paving can be re-laid, using the original block pavers.

The advantages of block-paving:

• Durability - Due to its use if hardstanding materials. 

• Low maintenance - Block paved driveways don’t require a lot of maintenance because of the strong materials they are made from, this also makes them durable enough to withstand all kinds of weather. If part of your paving does become damaged, then you can lift and remove and replace a particular section.

• Attractive Finish - Coming in a range of styles and colours block paving can be customised to your own specification. Different designs and shapes can be formed to suit your style.