How to Maintain Roads & Tips for Long-Lasting Tarmac Surfaces

The longevity and quality of tarmac surfaces are critical for both councils and businesses responsible for road maintenance. A well-maintained road provides a safer, more pleasant experience for residents and employees, and helps save on long-term repair costs. This guide outlines essential tips to keep tarmac surfaces durable and in good condition.

Importance of Tarmac Road Maintenance

Professional road maintenance is indispensable. Unfortunately, many councils have had to reduce proactive structural maintenance due to budget constraints, which can result in deteriorating road surface health. However, implementing a robust maintenance plan can lengthen the lifespan of tarmac surfaces and improve overall road conditions.

Essential Tips for Maintaining Tarmac Roads

1. Regular Inspections

Routine inspections are the cornerstone of effective road maintenance. Scheduled checks should assess the road for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, potholes, and surface degradation.

• Frequency: Depending on traffic volume and environmental conditions, inspections should be conducted at least twice a year.
• Technology: Utilise modern inspection technology, like drones and automated data collection tools, to identify issues early.

2. Prompt Repairs

Addressing minor issues before they escalate can save substantial costs and improve road safety.

• Crack Sealing: Small cracks can widen over time, leading to significant damage. Sealing cracks early prevents water ingress, which can weaken the road substructure.
• Pothole Patching: Swift pothole repairs using hot mix asphalt or cold patch materials will prevent further deterioration.

3. Surface Dressing

Surface dressing, also known as tar and chip, involves applying a layer of bitumen followed by aggregate. This technique enhances skid resistance and waterproofing but requires careful application for best results.

• Schedule: Ideally carried out in dry, warm weather to ensure proper adhesion.
• Local Considerations: In some areas, surface dressing may not be suitable due to climate or road usage patterns. For example, roads heavily used by bicycles might be better served with other treatments to avoid surface wear complications.

4. Drainage Maintenance

Proper drainage is crucial to preventing water damage, one of the leading causes of road surface deterioration.

• Gutter Clearance: Regularly clear roadside gutters and drains to prevent blockages that can cause water pooling and road damage.
• Slope Management: Ensure road surfaces are correctly graded to facilitate optimal water runoff.

5. Resurfacing

Even with the best maintenance practices, a road surface will eventually need renewal. Resurfacing involves placing a new layer of tarmac over the existing surface.

• Frequency: Parts of the road subject to high stress, such as bends and intersections, may need resurfacing more frequently.
• Materials: Use high-quality materials and consider incorporating recycled asphalt, a successful strategy in many local councils for its performance and environmental benefits.

6. Seasonal Maintenance

Climate plays a significant role in road maintenance. Extreme weather conditions can cause significant damage to tarmac surfaces.

• Winter: Ensure roads are adequately gritted and free from ice to prevent cracking from freeze-thaw cycles.
• Summer: Protect roads from heat damage by applying surface treatments designed to withstand high temperatures.

7. Traffic Management

Heavy traffic contributes significantly to road wear. Implement strategies to manage and reduce heavy vehicle loads.

• Weight Restrictions: Enforce weight limits on certain roads to prevent premature wear.
• Traffic Diversion: Reroute heavy traffic periodically to allow sections of the road network to recover.

8. Innovative Technologies

Keep up to date with innovative materials and techniques in road construction and maintenance. Technologies such as permeable pavements, self-healing asphalt, and automated repair systems can extend the lifespan of tarmac surfaces and reduce maintenance costs.

Summary

Maintaining tarmac roads requires a strategic approach, combining regular inspections, timely repairs, proper drainage, and use of high-quality materials. By following these tips, councils and businesses can ensure their roads remain safe, functional, and durable for years to come, ultimately saving money and improving transport infrastructure.

For a more detailed consultation on your road maintenance needs, or to explore innovative maintenance solutions tailored to your specific requirements, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to discuss these with you.