Driveways 4 You transformed a deteriorating driveway in Palmerstown, Dublin, replacing sunken cobblelock and failing tarmac with a properly prepared and compacted sub-base, natural silver granite framing and a new SMA tarmac finish.
Project Overview
The existing driveway at this Palmerstown, Dublin property combined old cobblelock paving with a previously installed tarmac surface. Both areas had deteriorated, leaving the entrance uneven and difficult to maintain.
The cobblelock had become discoloured, with sunken sections and weeds growing through the joints. The existing tarmac also showed weed growth and areas where the surface had gradually broken away.
Removing the Existing Cobblelock and Tarmac
The previous tarmac installation had an inadequate sub-base and an unsuitable surface thickness, contributing to its deterioration. Simply covering the existing driveway would not have addressed those underlying problems.
The old cobblelock and failing tarmac were removed so the ground could be properly prepared for the replacement driveway.
Ground Preparation and Drainage Falls
With the old surfaces cleared, the ground was prepared and the correct falls established for the new installation.
Attention to the driveway levels was an essential part of the preparation, helping rainwater flow off the finished surface rather than collect in low spots.
Natural Silver Granite Framing
Natural silver granite blocks were laid in straight lines to frame the driveway and define its boundary with the garden.
The granite creates a clearly defined edge and provides a contrasting border for the dark SMA tarmac finish.
Installing and Compacting the Sub-Base
A new sub-base was installed and compacted to prepare the driveway for its final surface. This stage addressed an important weakness in the previous installation.
The prepared foundation and surrounding granite frame established the layout and levels for the new tarmac driveway.
SMA Tarmac Installation
Once the foundation was prepared, SMA tarmac was installed to meet the levels of the natural silver granite frame.
The new surface replaces the previous combination of damaged paving and failing tarmac, creating a consistent driveway finish with defined stone borders.
Completed Tarmac Driveway in Palmerstown
The completed project has transformed the entrance to this Palmerstown property, replacing worn and uneven surfaces with a new SMA tarmac driveway and coordinated granite detailing.
The work focused on the underlying preparation as well as the visible finish, bringing together removal of the old materials, correct falls, a compacted sub-base and carefully matched surface levels.
Planning a New Tarmac Driveway?
Visit our Tarmac Contractors Dublin page for information about installation, finishes and pricing. You can also browse our completed tarmac driveway projects for more examples of our work.

