Tarmac Driveways in Buckingham

Buckingham sits in the valley of the Great Ouse, and many streets rise away from the river. That means more sloping drives than in flatter towns, and a slope changes how a tarmac drive needs to be built and finished. Some homes also have steps or ramps up from the pavement, and tarmac can be shaped to tie into these neatly.

Grip and gradient. Tarmac has good grip when laid with the right surface course, which is why it is often chosen for steeper drives. On a slope we compact carefully so the surface remains dense and even, and we may recommend a slightly coarser surface course for better traction in wet or icy weather.

Water runs down. On sloping drives, rainwater gathers speed and needs controlling. A channel drain at the bottom of a drive falling towards the house or garage is often essential, and on long slopes an intermediate channel can reduce run-off. Where the drive falls to the road, we check whether the water should be directed to a soakaway or garden instead.

Base and edges. A slope places extra stress on edges, so firm kerbs are important to prevent the tarmac creeping or cracking. We excavate to a firm formation, build the stone layers in steps if needed, then lay binder and surface courses.

On the steepest drives, the surface is laid from the bottom upwards so the roller always compacts against material already in place, and joints across the slope are kept to a minimum because they are where water tends to find its way in.

Buckinghamshire Council handles planning in Buckingham, and parts of the historic town centre fall within a conservation area. As a guide, an impermeable front surface bigger than five square metres that drains towards the road needs planning consent, while permeable surfaces or those draining onto your garden normally do not. Check with the council to be sure.