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At the core of our commitment to excellence lies the use of premium materials, ensuring unparalleled durability and superior quality in every project

SMA Asphalt Overlays.
Overlay your Pre-existing Driveway, Car Park or Path.

Considerations for a Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) overlay involve assessing the stability of the existing surface. Overlaying with SMA can offer a viable solution, given the surface meets specific criteria.

It's crucial to highlight that while an SMA overlay minimizes extensive preparations, its success hinges on the condition of the existing surface and meticulous adherence to precise installation techniques

  1. Assessment and Preparation: Evaluate the existing driveway's condition. Ensure it is structurally sound, free from major cracks, and has adequate drainage. 

  2. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove any dirt, debris, oil, or other contaminants. Power washing or using appropriate cleaning agents can help achieve a clean substrate.

  3. Preparation: Cut back around the area perimeter by approximately 1000mm-2000mm and 30-40mm in depth where the existing surface is not met with a hard standing edge of at least 30mm in height to create a hardstanding edge to camber the newly laid SMA down too.

  4. Optional Edgings: (Install a perimeter edging to edge the SMA overlay up too, sometimes clients like to change perimeter edgings to compliment the black SMA)

  5. Repair: Address any significant damages or cracks using appropriate fillers or repair materials.

  6. Calculate SMA Quantity: Determine the amount of SMA required for the overlay based on the driveway's dimensions and desired thickness. The average  thickness depends on the condition of the existing surface and the desired finish. The SMA overlay can typically range from a 30 millimetres to 50mm or more.

  7. Mixing and Transport: Mix the SMA thoroughly according to manufacturer guidelines. Transport the mixture to the site promptly, ensuring it remains workable within its specified timeframe.

  8. Prime: Apply a bonding agent (tac coat) or primer to enhance adhesion between the existing surface and the SMA overlay.

  9. Application: Begin the application process immediately upon arrival. Lay the SMA across the driveway using specialized plant, machinery and equipment ensuring the adequate thickness throughout the surface.

  10. Compaction and Finishing: Compact the SMA overlay thoroughly using a roller or compactor. Achieve the specified density and smoothness, paying close attention to eliminate air voids.

  11. Edge Detailing: Attend to the edges and borders meticulously, ensuring a seamless integration with existing structures or surfaces.

  12. Curing and Protection: Allow the newly laid SMA overlay sufficient time to cure as per manufacturer recommendations usually 24 hours and protect the surface from vehicular traffic or any potential damage during the cooling and curing period.

  13. Optional Regular Maintenance: Plan for regular maintenance, including cleaning, sealing (if recommended), and periodic inspections to prolong the life and aesthetics of the SMA overlay.

 

SMA involves precision and adherence to specific techniques for optimal results.

Check your Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) overlay eligibility with an in person visit from a member of our team.

SMA Overlay
Tarmac Gallery
Q&A tarmac

Most Commonly Asked Questions,

What is Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM)?

Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) is a type of road construction material composed of well-graded aggregates bound together by bitumen, known for its durability and strength.

What is Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA)?

SMA is a type of asphalt mixture known for its high stone content and durable properties. It contains a higher proportion of coarse aggregate and stone-on-stone contact, enhancing its strength and resistance to deformation.

What is Hot Rolled Asphalt (HRA)?

HRA, or Hot Rolled Asphalt, is a high-temperature asphalt mix used for road surfaces. It consists of aggregates and bitumen binder, providing durability and a quality finish to roads.

Does SMA, DBM and HRA require special installation techniques?

Yes, SMA installation often involves specific techniques to achieve proper compaction and density. These may include modified mixing methods and specialized compaction equipment.

What are the key components of DBM?

DBM typically consists of a mix of crushed aggregates such as stone, sand, and filler materials, bound together using bituminous binder.

 

Is SMA and DBM environmentally friendly?

SMA is considered environmentally friendly due to its ability to recycle existing materials and its durability, which reduces the need for frequent resurfacing, thus lowering the carbon footprint associated with maintenance.

Is SMA and DBM suitable for use in all weather conditions?

SMA and DBM generally performs well in various weather conditions, offering good resistance to temperature fluctuations, moisture, and wear, contributing to its durability and longevity.

Is DBM or SMA water permeable?
Both Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) and Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) are generally impermeable to water due to the bitumen binder used in their composition. However, there are modified versions of asphalt mixes, such as porous asphalt or permeable asphalt, specifically designed to allow water to pass through the surface and infiltrate into the ground. These permeable versions typically have a different aggregate gradation and are designed to create voids within the surface that allow water to drain through. We specialise in sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and can supply and install surfaces which facilitate water permeability.

What are the main advantages of using SMA?

SMA offers excellent durability, resistance to rutting and deformation, improved skid resistance, reduced road noise, and enhanced resistance to cracking compared to traditional asphalt mixes.

 

Where is SMA commonly used?

SMA is often used in high-stress areas such as highways, heavily trafficked roads, intersections, and areas prone to rutting or deformation due to its superior performance characteristics.

 

How is SMA different from conventional asphalt?

SMA differs from conventional asphalt in its higher aggregate content, specifically coarse aggregate, which provides increased strength and durability. Its stone-on-stone structure helps resist wear and deformation.

Can SMA be used for residential driveways or smaller projects?

Absolutely, while SMA is often used for major roads and highways, it can also be utilized for residential driveways or smaller projects where durability and longevity are desired.

What is the commonly the groundworks build up, all approximate depths?

(Cheapest option least durable)

Driveway 10mm close graded DBM that will puddle 

Type 1 100-150mm depth 

DBM 10mm - 60mm close graded non-turning or 100mm for turning 

DBM 10mm - 80mm close graded non-turning or 100mm for turning 

 

(SuDs - water permeable option)

Driveway 10mm open graded DBM (SuDs - water permeable)

Type 1 100-150mm depth 

Base ac14 or ac20 open graded - 60mm depth

DBM open graded 6mm or 10mm - 40mm depth 

(Best option more durable/ harder SMA)

Type 1 100-150mm depth 

Base ac14 or ac20 closed graded - 60mm depth

SMA 6mm or 10mm installed at 40mm depth 

Do we offer a line painting service?

Yes, we offer a line painting service. Digital set out guides can be provided for recommended traffic flow in car park areas by our inhouse team at Devine Resin or we can follow pre-approved plans for marking layouts.

Line Painting

Testimonials from Previous Clients

Rayleigh 40m2 Newstead.jpg

First class job.

'An absolutely brilliant job by Scott and his team. It was completed on time to a really high standard at a very competitive price. Scott was available at all times to answer any questions and oversee the work.
Would definitely recommend this company.'

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Dorking 170m2 Colour_ Osbourne

Siobhan Lever

Five Star

'The guys were great from start to finish. I will be honest I was very sceptical at the start when we started the process and they 100% restored my faith in trades. Scott was great, very informative, happy to answer all my millions of questions. The guys who did the work were efficient and tidy, again always happy to answer a question for me. The finished article was perfect.'

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Birthington 100m2 Chatsworth 2.jpg

Mr Manyweathers

Absolutely first class.

'Absolutely first class. Scott and this team made a fabulous job of our new drive, arrived on time a delivered a first class finish.
I have been in the construction industry for over 50 years and would definitely recommend Divine Resin to anyone who is looking for a professional top end resin drive.'

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