Is your tarmac quote complete?

What should a tarmac quote include?

Twelve things a proper tarmac or asphalt quote should spell out. The more of them are missing, the harder it is to compare quotes, and the easier it is for a layer to go missing on site.

• Dig depth or formation levelHow far down the ground is excavated. For a car drive, around 230–250 mm below finished level is common.
• Sub-base material and compacted depthFor example 'MOT Type 1, 150 mm compacted'. This layer carries the load; thin or unnamed stone is the most common shortcut.
• Binder course thickness and mixFor example 'AC 20 dense binder, 50–60 mm'. Without it, a single thin layer is doing all the work.
• Surface course thickness and mixFor example 'AC 6 dense surface, 20–30 mm'. 'Tarmac' alone doesn't tell you what is being laid.
• Edge restraintKerbs, blocks or setts on a concrete haunch along open edges. Tarmac without restraint crumbles from the sides.
• Drainage and fallsWhere the water goes: falls, channels, gullies or a soakaway, and whether the front-garden rules are met.
• Removal of the old surface and spoilBreaking out, digging out and disposal. Waste costs money, so if it isn't listed, ask.
• Bond coat on overlays or between coursesA sprayed tack coat glues layers together. Essential on any overlay.
• Total price including VATA total, not a rate per square foot or 'per load', with VAT shown clearly.
• Start date, duration and payment stagesWhen, how long and how payment is split. Large cash payments up front are a warning sign.
• Full company name, address and contact detailsA registered company or named trader with a real address, not just a mobile number.
• Cancellation rights in writingFor contracts agreed at home, you should be given the 14-day cancellation information.

Why does each item matter?

Most of the cost and most of the lifespan of tarmac sits below the surface. A quote that says only "tarmac drive, 50 m²" lets the depth of stone, the number of tarmac courses and the edging change without the price changing. Asking for each item in writing protects you, and a good contractor will be happy to add them.

Want a second opinion? Send your quote's details with the form and we'll price the same job, line by line.

Questions