When it comes to choosing a new driveway, most Newcastle homeowners want something that is affordable, long lasting, and easy to maintain. For decades, one option has ticked all of these boxes: tarmac.
Tarmac driveways are a familiar sight across the city. From large suburban properties in Gosforth to smaller terraces in Heaton, tarmac has been a go-to choice for generations. At Newcastle Paving, we continue to recommend it to families who want a practical surface that delivers strength and value.
In this guide, we’ll explore why tarmac remains one of the most popular driveway options, its costs, benefits, and some design choices available to modern homeowners.
What is a Tarmac Driveway
Tarmac, short for tarmacadam, is a mix of crushed stone and tar that creates a strong, smooth surface. It has been used for roads, car parks, and driveways for over a century.
Modern tarmac driveways use bitumen instead of tar, which makes them more durable and resistant to weather. When installed properly, they provide a clean, flat finish that can handle heavy traffic.
Why Newcastle Homeowners Choose Tarmac
Affordable upfront cost
Tarmac is one of the most cost effective driveway materials available. It is cheaper than resin, block paving, or stamped concrete, making it ideal for homeowners on a budget.
Reliable and durable
Tarmac is designed to withstand cars, vans, and even heavy vehicles. It is tough enough to handle Newcastle’s varied climate, from heavy rainfall to frosty winters.
Quick installation
Compared to block paving or resin, tarmac driveways are fast to install. Most projects can be completed in one or two days, minimising disruption.
Easy repairs
If damage occurs, small areas can be patched without replacing the whole driveway. This makes tarmac a flexible and practical choice.
Benefits of Tarmac Driveways
- Cost effective compared to other surfaces
- Long lasting and strong
- Resistant to heavy traffic and weather
- Fast installation process
- Easy to maintain and repair
- Smooth finish for cars and pedestrians
Costs of Tarmac Driveways in Newcastle
The cost depends on the size of the driveway, preparation work, and edging details. On average, tarmac driveways in Newcastle cost between £45 and £70 per square metre.
- Simple driveways with minimal preparation are at the lower end.
- Driveways needing excavation or new bases are at the higher end.
- Adding features like block paving borders increases costs.
Even at the higher range, tarmac remains one of the most affordable long term options.
Installation Process
At Newcastle Paving, we follow a proven method to ensure durability.
- Excavation – The old surface and soil are removed.
- Sub-base preparation – A strong layer of crushed stone is laid and compacted.
- Edging – Kerbs or block paving borders are installed to hold the tarmac in place.
- Base coat – A binder layer of tarmac is applied for strength.
- Top coat – The final smooth surface is laid, compacted, and rolled.
This process creates a stable driveway designed to last for many years.
Maintenance and Care
Tarmac driveways are low maintenance but should not be ignored completely.
- Sweep debris to prevent moss growth.
- Power wash occasionally to remove dirt.
- Reseal the surface every few years to keep it waterproof.
- Repair small cracks quickly to avoid further damage.
With these simple steps, a tarmac driveway can last 15 to 20 years or more.
Design Options
While many people imagine plain black driveways, modern tarmac offers more variety.
Red tarmac
Red tarmac creates a striking look that stands out. It works well for larger homes or when you want the driveway to complement brickwork.
Borders and edging
Adding block paving borders creates contrast and a more decorative finish. Borders also improve durability by holding the edges in place.
Patterns and shapes
Although tarmac itself is smooth, using borders or contrasting colours can create patterns and break up large areas.
Tarmac vs Other Driveway Materials
Tarmac vs resin
Resin offers a sleek, modern finish and is fully permeable. However, it costs more. Tarmac is cheaper and faster to install but requires drainage planning.
Tarmac vs block paving
Block paving allows creative patterns but is prone to weeds and movement. Tarmac is simpler and requires less maintenance.
Tarmac vs gravel
Gravel is cheaper but less stable and spreads over time. Tarmac provides a permanent, firm surface.
Tarmac vs stamped concrete
Stamped concrete offers decorative finishes but costs more and takes longer to install. Tarmac is quicker and more budget friendly.
Planning and Regulations
Since 2008, UK rules state that driveways over five square metres in a front garden must be permeable or have proper drainage.
Tarmac is not naturally permeable. This means drainage solutions such as soakaways or channel drains must be installed. At Newcastle Paving, we always ensure your driveway complies with these regulations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the cheapest installer and getting poor workmanship
- Laying tarmac on weak bases that sink or crack
- Ignoring drainage and creating puddles
- Skipping sealing, which reduces lifespan
- Forgetting to add edging, leading to crumbling edges
Real Example in Newcastle
We recently worked on a property in Westerhope where the owners had an old gravel driveway that constantly spread into the road. They wanted something simple, affordable, and reliable.
We installed a black tarmac driveway with a charcoal block paving border. The project took two days from start to finish. The new surface was smooth, strong, and easy to use. The homeowners told us it completely changed the front of their house and made parking much easier.
Environmental Considerations
While tarmac is not as eco friendly as grass paving or permeable resin, steps can be taken to improve sustainability. Using recycled aggregates in the base, installing proper drainage, and maintaining the surface well all reduce environmental impact.
Why Choose Newcastle Paving for Tarmac Driveways
We have years of experience installing tarmac driveways across Newcastle. Our team uses high quality materials, proper preparation, and professional equipment to deliver long lasting results.
We also offer design touches such as borders, coloured tarmac, and custom layouts to make your driveway unique. Every project is built with durability, compliance, and kerb appeal in mind.
Key Benefits Recap
- One of the most affordable driveway choices
- Strong and long lasting surface
- Quick installation with minimal disruption
- Low maintenance needs
- Flexible design with borders and colours
- Adds value and improves kerb appeal
Conclusion
Tarmac driveways remain one of the most affordable and reliable options for Newcastle homeowners. They combine durability, practicality, and quick installation with the flexibility to add decorative touches.
If you need a new driveway that won’t break the bank but will stand the test of time, tarmac is a smart choice. At Newcastle Paving, we specialise in creating driveways that look good, perform well, and add real value to your property.
Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how a tarmac driveway can transform your home.
Get A Quick Quote
Please provide your contact details here and we’ll get back to you shortly with a quote. We aim to respond to all quote requests in 24 hours.
