0 likes | 9 Views
Learn the key differences between tarmac and asphalt in this detailed guide. Discover which paving material best suits your needs for durability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term performance.<br><br>Learn More: https://www.suresealpavement.com/tarmac-vs-asphalt-detailed-guide-to-choosing-the-right-paving-material/
E N D
TOLL-FREE: 1-888-728-3636 TORONTO: 416-410-3705 info@suresealpavement.com Tarmac vs Asphalt: A Detailed Guide to Choosing the Right Paving Material
What Is Asphalt? Reference: https://www.suresealpavement.com/tarmac-vs-asphalt-detailed-guide-to-choosing-the-right-paving-material/ • Definition: Asphalt is a composite material used in pavement, roofing, and construction. • Composition: Made of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and aggregates (sand, stone, crushed rock) with bitumen as the binder. • Applications: Most common material for roads, driveways, parking lots, and curbs. • Benefits: Provides a stable base for heavy traffic; durable against Ontario's harsh weather year-round.
What Is Tarmac? • Definition: Tarmac (or tarmacadam) is a paving material made of tar and crushed stone. • Usage: Commonly used for road surfacing in Europe and parts of North America; a cost-effective alternative to asphalt for residential and commercial projects. • Applications: Includes driveways, roads, highways, airport runways, parking lots, and sports surfaces. • Current Status: Tarmac is becoming less common in Canada due to extreme weather; asphalt and concrete are now preferred for highways, runways, and playgrounds.
Key Differences Between Tarmac and Asphalt • Material Composition: Tarmac uses tar as a binder, while asphalt uses bitumen, affecting flexibility, durability, and performance in harsh conditions. • Durability & Strength: Asphalt is generally more durable, especially in high-traffic and extreme weather areas. Tarmac is flexible but less suitable for heavy loads and extreme temperatures. • Cost Comparison: Tarmac has lower initial installation costs, appealing to budget-conscious projects. Asphalt is pricier upfront but provides better long-term value due to its durability and lower maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Tarmac & Asphalt • Advantages of Asphalt Durable Long-lasting (up to 30 years) Cost-effective Minimal noise pollution Energy-efficient, improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions Enhanced safety with skid-resistant surface Reduces vehicle and tire wear • Disadvantages of Asphalt Vulnerable to weather damage Requires stable foundation Higher initial cost • Advantages of Tarmac Flexible Low installation cost Quick installation • Disadvantages of Tarmac Susceptible to UV radiation Vulnerable to chemicals and spills Retains heat Extended curing time Requires frequent maintenance Prone to weed, moss, and algae growth
Choosing the Right Paving Material • Application Asphalt: Preferred for parking lots and roadways due to its durability, smooth surface, and capacity for heavy loads and foot traffic, improving curb appeal and traction. Tarmac: Suitable for low-traffic roads but less effective in high-traffic areas. • Environmental Impact Tarmac: Has significant environmental drawbacks, absorbing harmful chemicals and being less recyclable, leading to increased landfill waste. Asphalt: A sustainable option that can be recycled into products like pavement and shingles, reducing waste and conserving resources, though its production has a notable carbon footprint. • Maintenance and Repair Tarmac: Requires frequent maintenance and repair due to environmental vulnerability and heavy traffic, needing regular cleaning and specialized solutions. Asphalt: Low maintenance; sealcoating extends lifespan, while crack sealing and patching reduce repair frequency and prolong pavement life.
Contact Sure-Seal Pavement for the Best Paving Solutions • Choosing between tarmac and asphalt requires evaluating your project needs. While both materials have pros and cons, asphalt is often the better option for property management. • Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. specializes in asphalt installation, maintenance, and repair, enhancing the safety and value of your commercial property. We provide a seven-year warranty on slurry sealing, pavement repair, and resurfacing services. • Reference: https://www.suresealpavement.com/tarmac-vs-asphalt-detailed-guide-to-choosing-the-right-paving-material/
40 Humberline Drive Toronto, ON M9W 5X1 416-410-3705 info@suresealpavement.com www.suresealpavement.com