Can You Tarmac On Top Of Concrete?

I’m often asked the question: can you tarmac on top of concrete? It’s an important and complex issue which requires careful consideration.

In this article, we’ll take a look at what factors must be taken into account when deciding whether to lay new asphalt over existing concrete surfaces. We’ll also explore potential alternatives for paving that might better suit your project goals.

Table of Contents

By providing you with all the facts, I hope to help you make an informed decision about your particular situation.

Advantages Of Tarmacking On Concrete

Tarmacking on top of concrete can provide a number of benefits. For example, many residential roads in the UK have been tarmacked over existing concrete to create an even surface, making them safer and more aesthetically pleasing for residents.

In this case study, contractors had to consider how thick the layer should be to ensure durability as well as safety standards. When deciding whether or not it is suitable to lay tarmac over concrete, engineers must ask themselves several questions: Can tarmac be laid over concrete? How do you tarmac over concrete? How thick should tarmac be over concrete? Answering these questions correctly will help ensure that the structure is safe and long-lasting once completed.

In order to improve the quality of surfaces when laying tarmac on top of existing concrete, measures such as applying a bitumen primer and using asphalt grade aggregate are essential – particularly if there are any cracks present before works begin. This level of preparation ensures maximal adhesion between the two layers and prevents future potholes from developing due to water ingress into any gaps caused by incorrect installation.

Disadvantages Of Tarmacking On Concrete

I’m concerned that tarmacking on top of concrete increases the risk of cracking. The additional weight of the tarmac and the lack of flexibility can cause the concrete underneath to break apart.

Moisture damage can also be an issue if not installed properly; if the concrete isn’t sealed properly, water can seep in and cause further damage.

All in all, while it is possible to tarmac on concrete, there are some potential risks that need to be considered.

Cracking

As a civil engineer, it is important to consider the potential disadvantages of laying tarmac on concrete.

The first significant issue that must be addressed when considering this question is ‘can tarmac be laid on concrete?’. In order to answer this question, we need to look at how asphalt and concrete can bond together.

Asphalt is best applied onto a stable substrate such as an un-eroded compacted stone base layer which helps create better adhesion between both materials. When applying asphalt directly onto concrete, without proper preparation of the surface before hand, there may not be sufficient bonding taking place resulting in cracking or delamination over time.

The second point to take into consideration is whether concrete forms a good base for tarmac. Even with correct adhesion being achieved between both materials, if the existing concrete slab has any kind of structural weaknesses due to erosion or subsidence then these areas are likely going to experience rapid degradation once exposed to traffic loadings and weathering conditions experienced by the asphalt above them.

If cracks start forming underneath then they will eventually propagate up through the top layers causing further issues related to stability and safety of use.

It therefore becomes apparent that particular attention needs to be paid towards achieving optimal bonding between asphalt and concrete where ever possible so as to prevent future problems from occurring down the line – this requires preparing the surface correctly prior application using methods such as scarifying or shot blasting depending on local conditions.

With careful planning and execution these risks can certainly be managed but caution should still always remain whenever attempting such works.

Moisture Damage

Another issue to consider when deciding whether or not you can put asphalt on top of concrete is the potential for moisture damage. Moisture entering through cracks and joints in the underlying concrete slab can cause significant problems as it slowly erodes away at the aggregate particles within which adversely affects the bonding between both materials.

If left untreated then this erosion process will continue leading to further deformation, cracking and delamination over time making the surface unusable until fully repaired. To combat these issues a waterproof membrane should be installed underneath the tarmac prior to application so that any water cannot get into contact with the substrate layer below – this helps protect against future degradation from occurring but also adds an extra cost onto the project which may need to be taken into consideration depending on budget restraints.

Additionally, proper drainage needs to be established around all edges so that any excess water does not pool up near by causing similar eventualities down track.

All in all, answering ‘can you put asphalt on top of concrete?’ requires careful planning and understanding of local conditions if one wishes to achieve satisfactory results without running into unnecessary complications later on down the line.

Preparation And Considerations

When considering tarmacking on top of concrete, there are several important preparation and considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, the surface must be properly prepared by using a power washer or wire brush to remove dirt, dust and any other debris from the top layer of the surface.

Secondly, it is also essential to ensure that all cracks and imperfections are filled with an appropriate product prior to applying the new tarmac.

Finally, any vegetation should also be removed as this can lead to further problems down the line.

In summary:

Ensure the existing concrete has been fully cleaned before beginning work.
Fill any cracks or holes using a suitable filler material for long-term performance.
Remove any vegetation from the area being worked on.

It is worth noting that following these steps correctly will help ensure that you get a great finish when laying your tarmac over existing concrete surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does It Cost To Tarmac On Top Of Concrete?

Tarmacking on top of concrete is possible, but it can be a costly process. The cost will depend on the size and complexity of the job, as well as any additional services that may need to be carried out first.

Generally speaking, you’re looking at anywhere from £35 – £45 per square metre for tarmac installation over existing concrete surfaces. It’s important to remember that this price range doesn’t include removal of an existing surface or other related works, so these costs should always be taken into account when budgeting for a tarmacking project.

Is Tarmacking On Top Of Concrete A Long-Term Solution?

Tarmacking on top of concrete can be a viable solution for some projects, however it is not always the most practical or cost-effective long-term option.

It’s important to consider factors such as the condition and age of the existing surface when deciding whether this method will provide enough stability over time.

If there are any doubts, experts advise that you should opt for more reliable methods which involve removing the original layer before laying down fresh tarmac.

Is Tarmacking On Top Of Concrete A Diy Job?

Visualizing the scene of tarmacking on top of concrete can be daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of know-how it is possible to take on as a DIY job.

Before beginning this project however, you should consider all aspects involved in order to make sure that tarmacking over the existing surface is indeed an appropriate solution for your needs.

It’s important to remember that although convenient, tarmacking may not provide long term results so suitable alternatives should be explored if necessary.

What Type Of Equipment Is Needed For Tarmacking On Top Of Concrete?

Tarmacking on top of concrete is a job best left to the professionals. It requires special equipment and an experienced eye in order for it to be done properly.

The most essential pieces of equipment you’ll need are a tamping machine, which compacts the asphalt into place, and a screed board, which ensures that the layer is even throughout.

You may also need some rakes for spreading out the material as well as a wheelbarrow or trailer to transport supplies.

Taking the time to ensure you have all these items will guarantee that your project is completed safely and correctly.

How Long Does It Take To Tarmac On Top Of Concrete?

Tarmacking on top of concrete is a complex process that requires the right tools and techniques to ensure it’s done properly.

Generally speaking, depending on the size of the area and other factors like weather conditions, this work can usually be completed in about one or two days.

However, more time may be needed if there are a lot of preparation steps involved such as removing existing materials before tarmacking.

It’s important for a professional civil engineer to evaluate each job site individually so they can determine an accurate timeline for completion of this kind of project.

Conclusion

The answer to the question of whether or not you can tarmac on top of concrete is yes. It may be a viable option for those who need an affordable and quick fix. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a long-term solution; due to its nature, it will likely require re-tarmacking in time.

As such, if longevity is what you’re looking for, opting for something more permanent would be your best bet. I’d advise against attempting this as a DIY job; without the right tools and knowledge it could end up being both dangerous and costly.

Instead, I recommend hiring a professional civil engineer with experience in dealing with these types of jobs – they’ll have the expertise needed to do the job properly and efficiently. All things considered, it’s certainly possible to tarmac on top of concrete but only with proper care and consideration.

Call us to get a price quote on a tarmac. Contact us today on 07595 510190 to receive a free quote or visit our website.