Tarmac Driveways Andover
Tarmac Driveway Installation by Rain or Shine Landscapes
At Rain Or Shine Landscapes, we install high-quality tarmac driveways across Andover and the surrounding Hampshire areas. Tarmac, also known as tarmacadam or asphalt, is a tried-and-tested driveway surface that’s known for its strength, affordability, and smooth finish. Whether you’re looking to replace an old driveway or lay a brand-new surface, tarmac is a fantastic option for both homes and commercial properties. It’s quick to install, cost-effective, and requires very little maintenance over time. Our team is based right here in Andover, and we’ve completed tarmac driveway installations on all types of properties—from rural cottages to modern estates. We’re committed to providing a reliable, professional service from start to finish. If you want a smart, durable surface that will stand up to daily use and still look great for years to come, a tarmac driveway from Rain Or Shine Landscapes is a solid choice.
Why Choose a Tarmac Driveway?
Tarmac driveways are one of the most popular surfacing options in the UK—and for good reason. Tarmac is highly durable, making it ideal for driveways that see regular vehicle traffic. It can handle everything from cars to vans without cracking, provided it’s laid correctly. It’s also one of the most affordable materials on the market, which means you can enjoy a hard-wearing surface without breaking the bank.
Another key advantage is its fast installation time. Like resin, tarmac can often be laid and ready to use within just a few days, depending on the weather and size of the area. It also has excellent water drainage properties when installed on a suitable sub-base, helping to prevent standing water. We only use high-quality tarmac and proper base preparation techniques to ensure your driveway lasts as long as possible and looks its best from day one.
Our Tarmac Driveway Process
At Rain Or Shine Landscapes, we follow a careful, step-by-step process to ensure your tarmac driveway is installed to the highest standard. It all begins with a free site survey, where we assess your current surface and discuss what you’re hoping to achieve. Next, we excavate the area and lay a solid sub-base, usually MOT type 1, which provides a strong foundation and good drainage. We then apply a binding layer, followed by the top layer of hot tarmac.
This is machine-rolled for an even, compacted finish. Edges are neatly finished with either kerbstones, concrete haunching, or block paving, depending on the design. We take great care to leave a clean, tidy site and ensure your new surface is safe and ready to use as soon as it’s cured—usually within 48 hours. With decades of combined experience, our team handles every project efficiently, with minimal disruption to your day.
Before & After
The Benefits of Tarmac for Driveways
Choosing tarmac for your driveway comes with a long list of benefits. First, it’s incredibly hard-wearing, making it perfect for families with multiple vehicles or homes with heavy traffic. It resists scuffs, tyre marks, and most weather conditions, including frost and heat. Tarmac is also naturally flexible, which means it’s less likely to crack due to ground movement compared to more rigid materials like concrete.
Another key advantage is easy maintenance. If your tarmac surface ever becomes worn or damaged, it can be repaired or resurfaced without needing a full replacement. It’s also quick to clean and looks neat with very little effort. From a visual standpoint, tarmac offers a clean, uniform look that pairs well with edging features like block borders or kerb stones. Whether you want a straightforward black surface or a more decorative design, a tarmac driveway offers an excellent balance of practicality and kerb appeal.
Tarmac vs. Other Driveway Materials
When comparing tarmac to other common driveway materials like concrete, resin, or block paving, each option has its own strengths—but tarmac stands out for its combination of cost, durability, and speed of installation. It’s generally more affordable than resin or block paving, making it a great choice for larger areas or projects with tighter budgets. Unlike gravel, tarmac won’t shift, spread, or develop ruts with daily use.
Compared to concrete, tarmac is quicker to install and cures faster, meaning less downtime and disruption. While block paving and resin can offer more decorative finishes, tarmac can still be enhanced with borders, kerbs, or a coloured topcoat for added style. It’s particularly well-suited to homes where function and longevity are key concerns. At Rain Or Shine Landscapes, we’re happy to talk you through the pros and cons of each material so you can make the right choice for your home in Andover.
Maintenance and Longevity of Tarmac Driveways
One of the best things about a tarmac driveway is how low-maintenance it is. Unlike block paving, which can suffer from weed growth between joints, or gravel which needs regular raking, tarmac requires very little day-to-day upkeep. A simple brush or occasional pressure wash will keep it clean, and any moss or algae can be removed with gentle treatments. Over time, your driveway may benefit from a re-seal or surface dressing, especially after 8–10 years, to keep it looking fresh and extend its lifespan. If cracks or holes ever develop, they can usually be patched easily without replacing the whole surface. When installed correctly and maintained well, a tarmac driveway can last 15 to 20 years or more. At Rain Or Shine Landscapes, we use only top-quality materials and proven methods to make sure your surface lasts as long as possible and continues to perform through every season.
Tarmac Driveway Edging and Finishing Options
While tarmac itself has a smooth, uniform look, the overall appearance of your driveway can be enhanced with a range of finishing touches. At Rain Or Shine Landscapes, we offer various edging and border options to give your driveway a more refined and attractive finish. Popular choices include block paving borders in contrasting colours, concrete edging, or decorative stone kerbs. These additions not only improve the visual appeal but also help contain the tarmac and prevent the edges from crumbling or wearing away.
You can also choose to integrate pathways, steps, or drainage channels into your design for added practicality. If you’re looking for something a bit different, we also offer coloured tarmac finishes—such as red or grey—though black remains the most traditional and hard-wearing choice. Whatever style you’re aiming for, our team will work with you to create a driveway that’s both functional and in keeping with the look of your home.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Tarmac Driveway?
In most cases, you won’t need planning permission to install a tarmac driveway—especially if the surface is designed with suitable drainage. Since 2008, UK planning laws have required that driveways must allow for proper water runoff to prevent flooding. This means using a permeable sub-base or installing suitable drainage, such as soakaways or channels that direct water away from the highway.
At Rain Or Shine Landscapes, we make sure every installation meets these requirements, so you can avoid unnecessary red tape. If your home is a listed property, in a conservation area, or you’re planning to alter access onto a public road, you may need approval. But in standard cases, tarmac is a perfectly legal and compliant choice. We’re always happy to assess your site and advise on any permissions needed before starting work. Our goal is to make your driveway project as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Get in Touch Today for Your Free Tarmac Driveway Quote
If you’re considering a tarmac driveway in Andover, get in touch with Rain Or Shine Landscapes for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll visit your property, assess the area, and provide honest advice based on your needs and budget. You’ll receive a detailed written estimate, so you know exactly what to expect. We don’t believe in hidden fees or pushy sales tactics—just straightforward, professional service from start to finish.
Our team will guide you through every stage of the project, from design and excavation to laying and finishing. Whether you want a simple black tarmac surface or something more bespoke with decorative edging, we’ve got the tools, experience, and local knowledge to deliver a driveway you can rely on. Give us a call or send us a message today, and let’s transform your driveway into a space that’s practical, durable, and visually appealing.