A well-maintained tarmac surface ensures continued practicality and kerb appeal. It also minimises the risk of vehicle damage, accidents and injuries. However, even with proper care, tarmac can start to show signs of wear. Over time, constant traffic, changing weather and natural ageing can cause damage that requires tarmac repairs. Acting quickly can make the difference between a quick, affordable fix and a full tarmac resurfacing project later on.
Below, we explain warning signs that your surface might need professional attention. If you’re based in Cobham, Crawley, Guildford, Reading, Reigate, Virginia Water, Weybridge, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex or anywhere in the South East, contact Surex Surfacing for expert solutions.
If you’re concerned about your surface, contact our team for:
We also have other blogs that offer further advice, such as whether to resurface or replace.
Small cracks are one of the earliest and most common signs that you need tarmac surface repairs. While minor cracking might not seem serious, water can quickly enter these gaps. In colder weather, this water can freeze and expand, making cracks bigger. Over time, this leads to deeper structural issues that require more extensive repairs or even full resurfacing.
If you spot any splits forming, it’s best to act fast. Professional tarmac repairs can seal these areas before they grow, preventing costly damage.
Potholes are one of the most obvious indicators that tarmac resurfacing may be needed. Not only are potholes unsightly, but they can also pose a hazard to vehicles and pedestrians. Timely pothole repairs can restore the area and prevent the problem from spreading.
If your tarmac surface looks uneven or feels soft underfoot, it could indicate a problem with the base layer. This often happens when the ground beneath begins to shift or when drainage is poor. These issues require immediate repair, as leaving them untreated can cause larger structural failures.
An uneven surface can also create trip hazards or cause puddles to form, leading to further surface degradation over time.
When the top layer of your tarmac starts breaking apart, it’s a clear sign that your surface is deteriorating. Loose stones, rough patches, or a gritty texture all suggest that the surface binder is wearing away. Early tarmac repairs can reseal these areas and restore strength before the damage worsens.
UV exposure gradually causes tarmac to lose its rich black colour, turning it grey or patchy. While this is often cosmetic, fading can also signal that the surface has become dry and brittle. This makes it more prone to cracking, meaning tarmac driveway repairs, road repairs or car park repairs might soon be needed to protect the structure beneath.
If you notice water pooling on your driveway or car park after rain, this could point to an unsuitable slope or a failing sub-base. Standing water quickly seeps into cracks and accelerates surface breakdown. Professional tarmac surface repair can restore the correct gradient and prevent future damage to your property in Cobham, Crawley, Guildford, Reading, Reigate, Virginia Water, Weybridge, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, East Sussex or West Sussex.
