Block Paving vs Tarmac

When it comes to making decisions about the surfaces for their driveways or paths, many homeowners tend to be confused between block paving and tarmacking. While both materials offer a variety of attractive options, there are some differences worth considering in order to make an informed choice.

Block paving is made up of concrete blocks in various shapes and sizes that are laid on top of a sand base and then hardened together with kiln-dried sand. This type of driveway or path typically has a more natural look than other options. The major benefit of block paving is its flexibility. The blocks can be laid to create interesting patterns, including circles, diamonds and herringbone designs. Another advantage of block paving is that it’s relatively easy to repair, as individual blocks can be replaced if they become damaged over time.

On the other hand, tarmac is made up of asphalt, which is heated and mixed with stone chips before being spread out over a prepared surface and compacted. Tarmac offers a low-maintenance option for homeowners who don’t want to spend too much time on upkeep but still want an attractive driveway or path. It also tends to be cheaper than block paving as the material is less expensive and only requires minimal digging prior to installation.

But despite these advantages, tarmac does have some drawbacks compared to other materials like block paving. For starters, it doesn’t last nearly as long, nor does it look as good over time compared with other materials such as brick or stone pavers. Tarmac can also become quite slippery when wet, which makes it unsuitable for steep driveways or paths where there may be an increased risk of slipping while walking down them.

So when deciding between block paving and tarmac for your driveway or path, there are several points worth considering in order to make the right choice for you and your family’s needs and budget: cost, appearance, flexibility, durability, maintenance requirements and safety factors should all be taken into account before making any final decision.