The Complete Guide to Tarmac Driveways (2025)
Last updated: February 2025 · 12 min read
Everything you need to know before investing in a tarmac driveway — from costs and types to installation, drainage, maintenance, and how to choose the right contractor.
In This Guide
What Is a Tarmac Driveway?
A tarmac driveway is a vehicle surface made from tarmacadam — a mixture of aggregate stones bound with bitumen. Modern tarmac driveways actually use bituminous asphalt rather than traditional tar, making them more durable, flexible, and environmentally friendly than their predecessors.
Tarmac remains the UK's most popular driveway material due to its excellent durability-to-cost ratio, fast installation time, and low maintenance requirements. A professionally installed tarmac driveway provides a smooth, hard-wearing surface that typically lasts 15–20 years.
Types of Tarmac for Driveways
Standard Black Tarmac
£60–£120/m²The most common and cost-effective option. Dense bitumen macadam (DBM) or stone mastic asphalt (SMA) provides a smooth, durable finish in classic black. Suitable for most residential driveways.
Red Tarmac
£75–£135/m²Contains iron oxide pigment for a distinctive reddish-brown finish. Popular for properties where a traditional black surface doesn't complement the architecture. Costs 15–25% more than standard tarmac.
Pattern Imprinted Tarmac
£90–£160/m²Standard tarmac with a decorative pattern rolled into the surface while still warm. Offers the aesthetic appeal of block paving at a lower cost, though patterns may fade over time and can be harder to repair.
How Much Does a Tarmac Driveway Cost?
Tarmac driveway costs depend on several factors including size, tarmac type, existing surface condition, and your location. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2025.
| Cost Factor | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Standard tarmac (per m²) | £60 – £120 |
| Sub-base preparation | £15 – £30/m² |
| Existing surface removal | £10 – £25/m² |
| Edging (block paving border) | £25 – £40/m |
| Drainage channel | £40 – £60/m |
| Dropped kerb | £600 – £1,200 |
Get Your Exact Cost
Use our free tarmac driveway cost calculator for a personalised estimate based on your exact requirements.
Try the calculatorTarmac vs Block Paving vs Resin Bound
| Feature | Tarmac | Block Paving | Resin Bound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per m² | £60–120 | £80–160 | £100–180 |
| Installation time | 1–2 days | 3–5 days | 1–2 days |
| Lifespan | 15–20 yrs | 20–25 yrs | 15–25 yrs |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium | Low |
| Permeable option? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The Tarmac Driveway Installation Process
Site Survey & Quote
A professional surveyor assesses your site, takes measurements, checks ground conditions and drainage, and provides a detailed written quotation.
Excavation & Preparation
The existing surface is excavated to the required depth (typically 200–250mm). The area is levelled, compacted, and edging is installed.
Sub-Base Installation
A layer of Type 1 MOT hardcore (typically 100–150mm) is spread and compacted with a roller to create a stable foundation.
Binder Course
A base layer of coarser asphalt (20mm binder course, typically 50–60mm thick) is machine-laid and compacted.
Surface Course
The final wearing course (6mm or 10mm SMA, typically 25–30mm thick) is machine-laid and rolled to create a smooth, even finish.
Finishing
Edges are sealed, drainage is tested, and the site is cleaned. The driveway can typically be walked on immediately and driven on after 24–48 hours.
Driveway Drainage Requirements
Under current UK regulations, any new non-permeable driveway over 5m² that drains onto the public highway requires planning permission. This means proper drainage isn't just good practice — it's often a legal requirement.
Options include:
- Permeable tarmac: Allows water to drain through the surface into the ground below.
- Linear channel drains: ACO-style drains installed across the driveway to collect surface water.
- Soakaways: Underground chambers that collect and slowly disperse rainwater into the surrounding soil.
- Gradient falls: Angling the driveway surface to direct water towards lawns, borders, or drainage points.
Tarmac Driveway Maintenance Tips
Planning Permission for Tarmac Driveways
You generally don't need planning permission to replace an existing driveway like-for-like. However, if you're creating a new driveway, paving over a front garden, or installing a non-permeable surface larger than 5m² that doesn't drain sustainably, you may need to apply. Check with your local planning authority or ask us during your free site survey — we'll advise on the best compliant solution for your property.