How to Repair Cracks and Potholes in Your Tarmac Surface

ByNS Driveways Farnham

Tarmac is a strong and reliable surface, but like any driveway material, it can develop cracks and potholes over time. Left untreated, these small issues can quickly grow, leading to expensive repairs and a shorter lifespan for your driveway. At NS Driveways Farnham, we help homeowners across Farnham, Surrey keep their tarmac driveways and paths looking great and performing well with timely maintenance and repairs.

Why Cracks and Potholes Form

Cracks and potholes are usually caused by a combination of factors:

  • Weather exposure – water can seep into the surface and expand when frozen, creating cracks.
  • Heavy use – repeated pressure from vehicles can weaken the surface over time.
  • Poor drainage – standing water can cause erosion underneath the surface layer.
  • Age of the surface – older tarmac naturally becomes more brittle and prone to damage.

Identifying and addressing these issues early will help you avoid further damage.

Step 1: Inspect the Damage

Walk over your driveway and note any cracks, holes, or loose areas. Small hairline cracks are usually easy to repair, but wider cracks and deeper potholes may need professional attention. NS Driveways Farnham can carry out a full assessment to determine the right solution for your surface.

Step 2: Clean the Area Thoroughly

Before any repair, the affected area must be clean. Remove loose debris, weeds, and dirt to ensure proper adhesion of repair materials. For potholes, dig out any loose pieces until you reach solid, stable tarmac underneath.

Step 3: Fill Cracks and Holes

  • Cracks – these can be filled with a specialist crack filler designed for tarmac. The filler should be applied smoothly and left to cure properly before use.
  • Potholes – fill the hole with a cold-lay tarmac mix or have a professional resurface the section for a stronger, longer-lasting finish.

At NS Driveways Farnham, we use high-quality materials and professional equipment to make sure repairs are durable and blend seamlessly with the existing surface.

Step 4: Compact and Level the Repair

Once the material is in place, it must be compacted to ensure a strong bond and an even finish. Proper compaction prevents future sinking and gives the repair a neat, professional look.

Step 5: Seal and Protect

After repairs are complete, consider applying a seal coat to your entire driveway. Sealing adds a protective layer that shields the tarmac from water, oil, and UV damage, extending its lifespan and keeping it looking fresh.

Conclusion

Cracks and potholes in your tarmac driveway don’t have to mean a full replacement. With regular inspections, cleaning, and prompt repairs, you can keep your surface safe, functional, and visually appealing for many years. NS Driveways Farnham is here to help homeowners in Farnham, Surrey with expert tarmac repair services that restore your driveway and prevent further damage.

Call us on: 01252 941 699
Click here to find out more about NS Driveways Farnham
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your driveway needs.

This is a newly installed tarmac driveway. All works carried out by NS Driveways Farnham

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