Spray Coat & Seal

Two Coat Bitumen Seal:

• Life Expectancy: Typically lasts 10–15 years with proper maintenance.
• Durability: Offers excellent resistance to weather and light traffic, making it ideal for rural and acreage properties. Regular resealing can extend its lifespan.

Asphalt:

• Life Expectancy: Generally, lasts 20–30 years depending on usage and maintenance.
• Durability: Highly durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. Its smooth surface resists cracking and wear, especially with routine care.

Road Base Preparation:

• Life Expectancy: Provides a stable foundation designed to last decades, depending on the quality of the surface layers applied.
• Durability: Critical to the strength and longevity of the driveway. Proper preparation ensures the top layers, like bitumen or asphalt, perform at their best and remain durable over time.

For all products, regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to maximize lifespan and ensure lasting performance.

Bitumen:

• Bitumen is a binding agent derived from crude oil. It’s commonly used as a key component in road construction and driveway sealing.
• Application: In a two-coat bitumen seal, bitumen is sprayed as a hot liquid and covered with aggregates to create a durable surface. This method is cost-effective and ideal for rural and low-traffic areas.

Asphalt:

• Asphalt is a hot mixture of bitumen and aggregates (crushed rock, sand, or gravel) that is laid and compacted to form a solid surface.
• Application: Asphalt is typically used for driveways, roads, and pathways that require a smoother, more polished finish. It’s highly durable and ideal for high-traffic areas or properties seeking a premium aesthetic.

In summary, bitumen is the adhesive material, while asphalt is a finished product that combines bitumen with aggregates for a smoother, more robust surface. Both options are durable, but asphalt is better suited for high-traffic areas, while bitumen seals are cost-effective for rural and acreage properties.

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your bitumen or asphalt driveway. Here are key maintenance tips and things to avoid:

After Care Procedures:

1. Allow Full Cure Time:
   • For new bitumen or asphalt surfaces, avoid heavy traffic for at least 24-48 hours to allow the surface to cure fully.
2. Regular Cleaning:
   • Sweep the surface regularly to remove debris, leaves, or dirt. A build-up of debris can retain moisture, potentially leading to cracking or wear.
   • For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent or soap and a hose, avoiding harsh chemicals that may break down the surface.
3. Seal Coating:
   • For bitumen seals, it’s recommended to reapply a protective seal every 3-5 years to prevent cracking and maintain the appearance.
   • Asphalt may also benefit from a sealant after a few years to protect it from UV rays, oil stains, and weathering.

1. Control Water Flow:
   • Ensure proper drainage around the driveway to prevent pooling water, which can damage the surface over time.
   • Install or maintain drainage channels to direct water away from the driveway.
2. Resurface When Needed:
   • If you notice surface wear or minor cracks, have it resurfaced before the damage worsens. Resurfacing is more affordable than a complete replacement.

Things to Avoid:

1. Avoid Parking Heavy Vehicles:
   • Overloading the surface with heavy vehicles can lead to cracking or deforming, especially on bitumen surfaces.
2. Harsh Chemicals or Solvents:
   • Avoid using oil-based products, gasoline, or harsh solvents to clean the surface. These can break down both bitumen and asphalt over time.

By following these aftercare procedures and maintaining the surface, you can ensure the longevity of your bitumen or asphalt driveway and avoid costly repairs.

Yes, you can resurface/reseal your existing driveway, and it’s a great way to restore its appearance and extend its lifespan. Here’s what you need to know about both options:

Resealing involves applying a new layer of bitumen over the existing driveway. This is ideal when your driveway has cracks, wear, or surface damage but is still structurally sound underneath.

• Benefits:
  • Resealing can restore a damaged or worn-out driveway, giving it a fresh, smooth appearance without the cost of a full replacement.
  • It improves the overall durability of your driveway by adding a new layer of protection against weather and wear.

• When to Reseal:
  • The existing surface has cracks or damage but is not severely eroded.
  • If your driveway has settled over time but is still structurally stable.
• Considerations:
  • Make sure the base of your driveway is in good condition before resurfacing. If there are issues with the base, such as erosion or drainage problems, those need to be addressed before resurfacing.

The main reason for different thicknesses of asphalt is to accommodate the specific traffic load and environmental conditions that the surface will be subjected to. The thickness of the asphalt layer is crucial to ensure durability, strength, and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that determine asphalt thickness:

1. Traffic Load and Usage:

• • Light Traffic (Residential Driveways):
    For driveways or areas with light traffic (such as residential vehicles), a thinner asphalt layer, typically around 30mm to 50mm, is sufficient. This provides a smooth, durable surface for everyday use without the need for excessive thickness.
  • Heavy Traffic (Commercial or Industrial Areas):
    Areas subjected to heavier traffic, such as parking lots, roads, or highways, require a thicker asphalt layer—often 75mm or more. This added thickness helps distribute the load from vehicles, reducing wear and preventing cracks or surface damage.
  • Vehicular Load:
    The weight of vehicles, particularly heavy trucks or machinery, necessitates thicker asphalt to prevent damage and ensure the longevity of the surface.

2. Substrate and Base Material:

• • The strength and condition of the underlying road base or foundation material play a key role in determining the thickness of the asphalt. If the base material is weaker or not properly prepared, a thicker asphalt layer is required to provide additional support and prevent settlement.
  • For areas with soft or unstable ground, thicker asphalt layers are necessary to compensate for insufficient load-bearing capacity in the base material.

3. Climate and Weather Conditions:

• • In areas with extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall, thicker asphalt may be used to ensure the surface can withstand weather-related stress and prevent issues like cracking or surface erosion.
  • Asphalt layers can also help with drainage, which is particularly important in wet climates to prevent water pooling or damage from flooding.

In summary, the thickness of the asphalt layer is determined by the expected traffic conditions, the base material beneath the asphalt, and the environmental factors to ensure a long-lasting, durable surface. Always consult a professional contractor to determine the ideal thickness for your project.

A good foundation underneath your driveway, road, or pavement is essential for ensuring its strength, durability, and long-lasting performance. The foundation provides the support needed to withstand traffic loads, weather conditions, and other stresses that could otherwise damage the surface. Here are the key components of a strong foundation:

1. Road Base or Crushed Gravel:

• • Road base is a mixture of crushed rock, gravel, and sand, often used as the primary layer beneath asphalt or bitumen. It provides excellent compaction and drainage, ensuring the surface remains stable.
  • A good quality road base is graded to ensure proper load distribution and stability. It should have a variety of particle sizes, from fine gravel to larger rocks, for optimal compaction and strength.

The road base should be level and well-compacted, with a consistent thickness of approximately 100mm to 150mm for residential driveways. For areas subjected to heavier traffic, a thicker base may be required.

Adding a border, such as pavers or concrete edging, to your driveway is not strictly necessary but can provide several practical and aesthetic benefits. Whether or not you need one depends on your specific project goals, budget, and the overall design of your property. Here’s a breakdown:

Benefits of Adding a Border:

1. Structural Integrity:
   • A border acts as a retaining edge for materials like asphalt or bitumen, helping to prevent the edges from cracking, crumbling, or spreading over time.
   • It enhances the durability of your driveway by maintaining a clean edge and reducing the risk of wear and tear at the margins.
2. Aesthetic Appeal:
   • Borders can significantly improve the visual appeal of your driveway by creating a polished, finished look.
   • They can be customized with pavers, concrete edging, or decorative stones to match the style of your property.
3. Safety and Navigation:
   • Clear borders can guide vehicles, ensuring they stay within the driveway space and avoid damaging adjacent landscaping.
4. Enhanced Drainage:

Properly designed edging can assist with drainage management, preventing water runoff from undermining the driveway foundation.

Yes, you can drive heavy machinery on your driveway, but it’s important to follow proper guidelines to ensure you don’t compromise its strength or longevity. The ability to handle heavy loads depends on the type of surface (asphalt or bitumen), its thickness, and the quality of the foundation.

Key Factors to Consider:

1. Curing Time:
   • Asphalt Driveways: Allow at least 7–10 days for the surface to cure before driving heavy machinery on it. During this period, the asphalt is more susceptible to damage.
   • Bitumen Driveways: Bitumen surfaces are generally ready for light traffic within 24–48 hours, but heavy machinery should wait for 2–3 weeks to ensure proper curing.
2. Foundation and Thickness:
   • A driveway built with a strong road base and appropriate thickness can withstand the pressure of heavy vehicles better. For machinery, asphalt thickness of 50–75mm or a two-coat bitumen seal with a compacted road base is recommended.
3. Weight Distribution:
   • Use vehicles or machinery with rubber tires or place protective mats under tracks to distribute weight and reduce the risk of surface indentation.
   • Avoid turning heavy vehicles sharply, as this can scuff or tear the surface.
4. Weather Conditions:
   • In hot weather, asphalt or bitumen can soften slightly, making it more prone to damage from heavy loads. Be cautious when using machinery in extreme heat.

It’s not advisable to use your driveway during the construction phase, as doing so can compromise its structural integrity and result in delays or additional repairs. Here’s why and what you should keep in mind:

Key Reasons to Avoid Use During Construction:

1. Foundation Preparation:
   • During the road base preparation phase, the surface is being compacted and levelled to create a strong foundation. Driving on it prematurely can cause ruts, uneven compaction, or damage to the base layer.
2. Sealing and Surfacing:
   • For bitumen driveways, the two-coat seal needs to be applied and fully cured to provide durability.
   • Asphalt driveways require sufficient time to set and bond properly. Traffic during this phase can weaken the surface or create lasting imperfections.
3. Moisture Sensitivity:
   • The materials used in the construction process, such as fresh bitumen or road base, can be sensitive to moisture or weight, especially in their uncured state.

What to Expect:

• Timeframes: Most driveway construction projects, including curing, can take 1–2 weeks depending on weather and the chosen materials.
• Access Planning: Plan alternative parking and access routes during this time to ensure the process isn’t disrupted.

Exceptions:

If access is necessary, consult with your contractor. They may provide temporary pathways or reinforcement solutions to minimize damage.

By avoiding use during the construction phase, you’ll ensure a stronger, longer-lasting driveway.

The time required before driving on a freshly laid driveway depends on the material used and weather conditions. Here’s a general guide for bitumen and asphalt driveways:

Bitumen Driveways:

• Curing Time: Typically, you should wait 24–48 hours after the final coat is applied before driving on a bitumen driveway.
• Factors to Consider:
  • Avoid sharp turns or heavy braking for the first week to prevent surface damage.
  • In warmer weather, the bitumen may take slightly longer to fully harden, so proceed cautiously.

Asphalt Driveways:

• Initial Set Time: Asphalt driveways require at least 48–72 hours before handling light vehicle traffic.
• Full Curing Time: While it may feel firm, asphalt can take up to 6 months to fully cure. During this time:
  • Avoid parking heavy vehicles in one spot for extended periods.
  • Be mindful of potential surface scuffing in hot weather.

General Tips:

1. Weather Conditions: Humidity and temperature can impact drying and curing times. Always consult your contractor for the specific timeframe.
2. Heavy Vehicles: Avoid driving heavy machinery or trucks on the driveway for at least 2 weeks to ensure the surface has gained adequate strength.

By giving your new driveway ample time to cure, you’ll maximize its durability and longevity.