The Problem: Cracked Tarmac and Its Dangers
When cracks appear in tarmac, particularly around high-traffic areas such as drain covers, they present a number of risks that can worsen over time. The area outside No. 24 was a prime example of this issue.
The tarmac surrounding the drain cover had developed significant cracks, causing several hazards:
1. Safety Risks: Cracked and uneven surfaces are a trip hazard for pedestrians and cyclists. For drivers, damaged tarmac can cause jolts and vehicle damage, particularly if the cracks deepen or dislodge further.
2. Water Damage: Cracks allow water to seep beneath the surface, which erodes the sublayer and leads to more severe structural failure. During colder months, water can freeze and expand, worsening the cracks through frost heave.
3. Drain Access Issues: If the tarmac around a drain deteriorates, it can obstruct access to the drain cover, impacting drainage maintenance and increasing the risk of flooding.
Left unchecked, such issues can escalate into more extensive damage, posing greater repair costs and inconvenience to residents and road users.
The Solution: Ground Up's Methodical Approach
To address the issues outside No. 24, Ground Up implemented a professional repair process to ensure durability and safety. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the works carried out:
1. Marking Out the Damaged Area: The cracked section of tarmac was carefully marked with chalk to define the extent of the problem. This allowed the team to target only the damaged area while ensuring a seamless blend with the surrounding surface.
2. Excavating the Damaged Tarmac: The deteriorated tarmac around the drain cover was excavated, creating a clean, smooth edge. This step was crucial to ensure proper bonding between the new and existing tarmac. Special care was taken to protect the drain cover and its surroundings.
3. Applying New Tarmac in Layers: A fresh tarmac (asphalt mix) was applied in layers, beginning with a robust base layer to provide structural strength, followed by a surface course for a smooth finish. Each layer was compacted thoroughly to guarantee a solid, long-lasting surface.
4. Smoothing and Sealing: The team carefully levelled the new tarmac to match the existing road surface. The edges were sealed to prevent water ingress, which is a key factor in preventing future cracks and damage.
5. Ensuring Drain Access: Throughout the process, care was taken to ensure the drain cover remained fully accessible, maintaining proper drainage functionality and eliminating any potential obstructions.
The Result: A Safe, Durable, and Seamless Finish
The works were completed efficiently and to a high standard, restoring the area outside to a safe and functional condition.
The once-cracked and hazardous tarmac now blends seamlessly with the surrounding surface, providing:
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Improved Safety: Pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers can now use the area without the risk of tripping or vehicle damage.
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Enhanced Durability: The compacted and sealed tarmac ensures resilience against traffic and environmental stress, reducing the likelihood of future issues.
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Preserved Drainage Access: The smooth integration around the drain cover maintains easy access for maintenance and prevents drainage blockages.
Why Professional Tarmac Repairs Matter
Ignoring damaged tarmac can result in more costly repairs down the line. Professional repair services, like those offered by Ground Up, ensure that the problem is addressed at its root. By removing damaged sections, applying new tarmac in layers, and sealing the surface, the repaired area is both functional and built to last.
If you're facing similar issues with cracked or damaged tarmac, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Ground Up delivers effective, long-term solutions to keep surfaces safe, smooth, and secure.
Get in touch with Ground Up today for expert tarmac repair services.
