Repairing a tarmac driveway - Old drive needs repairing

[MEADOWCROFT]

I have a small tarmac driveway (6m x 4m) under a carport, which is badly in need of repair.
I know this might sound a silly question, but how do you suggest I go about this, assuming I tackle the job myself.

Best wishes

Frank

[Tony McC]

You have two basic choices - overlay what's there or rip it up and start again.

If you go for an overlay, you can have a resin-based overlay or a new tarmac overlay. Resin is described elsewhere on the site, and in this forum, and is a good choice if the existing surface is structurally sound but just a bit tatty and tired. Tarmac overlays are better when the existing surface is in a poor condition, but you will have helluva job trying to get a bitmac contractor to take on a 24m² overlay: it's more trouble than it's worth.

Resin can be done DIY, but it's better to bring in an experienced contractor. Tarmac is NOT a DIY task and can only be done using a contractor as there is a wide range of specialist tools required.

If you decide to start again, then you can choose any type of surfacing or paving that you fancy. You might be able to re-use the sub-base beneath the old tarmac, if one is present, but until the ground is open, it's impossible to say.

[MEADOWCROFT]

Thanks for your help Tony McC. I think I am going to have to rip it up and start again. I am not obliged to re-tarmac, it's just that it was the original surface.
Can you suggest some alternatives with approximate costs, and if they can be done DIY.

Best wishes


Frank

[Tony McC]

If you're keen to go the DIY route, then block paving is by far the easiest and most cost effective surfacing for these small projects. Assuming you can re-use the existing sub-base, it should be possible to block pave the 6x4m area for less than 600 quid.