Overlay tarmac on concrete

[loudog]

Hi, I have been laying tarmac for many a year but recently gave a quotation for an overlay of concrete. The people I gave the quote to are interested but have been put off from other contractors regarding laying over concrete. The concrete is sound, very sound and has been down about 40 years. Contractors have said you won't get the lines out and it need ripping out, I have never found that I can't get the lines out, as long as you give it a good 35-40mm thickness of 6mm of SMA. I have to go and see them tomorrow and was wondering what you guys thought. Many many thanks for your feedback

[Kuts]

Are there any control joints or cracks?
They are probably gobshites trying to frighten them into doing the full construction.
A good sweep and plenty of emulsion and it shouldn't go anywhere.

[Dave_L]

You're basically laying a flexible surface over a rigid surface - joints and cracks will show through the surfacing in months or years as the slabs move, depending upon their condition. This is exacerbated where areas are driven over.

If you're happy doing it, then carry on! Many councils have surfaced over concrete roads constructed in the 60's/70's on council estates with a latex based material with varying degrees of success.

It's a compromise and aslong as you make the customer aware, then all's good.

[loudog]

I was hoping to get a reply off you Dave. Would cracks appear even though there is no cracks at the moment in the concrete. I got to meet them later so would love a reply no pressure. Cheers

[Dave_L]

If the concrete below is sound with no cracks then I'd be far happier, yes.