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Posted: Sun Apr 13, 2008 9:22 pm
by zip
Hi all,
I hope this wasn't covered elsewhere but I don't think so.
I've a driveway and small yard to do around a house (about 1200 sq m in all, and pretty much all of it could be machine layed).
I'm looking for something
1. Long lasting (is there something out there I could get 15-20 years out of ?)
2. Black (non fade) colour
3. Hard wearing (ideally something I could power wash)
Not asking for much....
Would Tarmac deliver the above or would I have to look at something like SMA? Is SMA black or is it a grey colour?
Any advice welcome....!
Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2008 5:53 am
by Dave_L
1) If it is laid properly over a properly constructed sub-base, then 20 years is achieveable.
2) Tarmac will always fade to grey
3) Power wash tarmac? Lightly, yes, but I wouldn't go jetting it directly. 6mm SMA would be your best bet - is there any turning of vehicles on the areas?
Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2008 12:48 pm
by zip
Hi Dave,
Thanks for the answers.
Yep I hadn't thought of that but there will be vehicles turning in the the yard area (jeeps and cars daily and delivery trucks less frequently)
It does sounds like I need SMA. Does it give a grey finish (never seen it in reality) and is it more difficult to lay down and maintain?
Sorry for all the questions trying to make sure I make the right decision.
Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2008 7:21 pm
by Dave_L
Yes, SMA tarmac will fade to a grey colour after 6-12 months.
Difficult to lay? Only if it is specified in 50 pen (My favorite!) but otherwise, it's not much different. Maintenence free, apart from a brush down.
What aggregate size do you have in mind? 6mm is the usual for domestic driveways - 10mm is more suited to car parks and industrial applications - but seeing as though you have the occasional delivery truck and large 4x4's, I'd sway towards 10mm.
Fancy red tarmac? That stays red, unlike standard 'mac.
Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2008 10:08 pm
by zip
Thanks again Dave.
I hadn't thought much about the aggregate size I guess I'd be after something with a fairly fine finish but durable. Maybe 10mm would give that?
No based on the house black would be the preferred colour (gray would be ok if that's the only option I have)
Its a 140m driveway so I was thinking of using timber edging (other too expensive). Would that be ok with SMA as well?
Lastly (not sure if the website does this) I'm based in the midlands in Ireland. Do you know of any reputable contractors around there?
Thanks again for all the help
Posted: Mon Apr 14, 2008 10:42 pm
by Pablo
Reputable tarmacers in Ireland you've more chance of finding a leprechaun with a pot of gold. A wooden edge wouldn't last as long as the tarmac if you're looking at 15-20 years. A well haunched pin kerb would do the trick and not cost the earth. If you see a driveway that looks well done don't be afraid to go and ask who did it. Butter the owners up by saying you couldn't help but notice how lovely their driveway looks blah blah and most people would be happy to talk to you.
Posted: Tue Apr 15, 2008 6:29 am
by Dave_L
Pah! Timber edging? Horrible as Pablo says. Go for a 150x50mm edger, do the job properly.
TonyC might be able to help reccomend somebody in Ireland.
Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2008 7:15 pm
by zip
Sorry away for a day so delay in replying.
Point taken I'll go for the edger so...I'll aim to do the job properly.
If anyone knows of a good contractor in the Midlands you might let me know. In the meantime I'll keep an eye out for leprechauns 
Thanks for the help