The existence of roads and pathways can be traced all the way back to 4000 B.C, however there is also reason to believe that they were developed not too long after the conception of the wheel. Over the years, we have managed to advance and perfect the construction of roads in order to create extraordinary feats of engineering that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. In fact, there are a wide variety of different materials that can be used in road construction. Read on as we go over the top three…
Asphalt
Roads have been made out of asphalt since the early 1920’s and it has remained a popular material ever since. In fact, the method used to implement asphalt as a road material is known as the ‘asphalt construction technique’ and involves a thick layer of gravel at the very top in order to provide grip for vehicles. Many councils tend to opt for asphalt because it’s an affordable material that can be easily maintained; however, it isn’t environmentally friendly and doesn’t possess the same qualities as concrete in terms of strength and durability.
Tarmac
Also known as tarmacadam, tarmac is a road surface material that looks strikingly similar to asphalt from an aesthetical point of view, however both materials have distinctly different qualities. After all, tarmac provides a level of grip that any other material cannot compete with and is also water resistant which reduces the amount of damage that the road sustains over its lifespan. It is made by mixing crushed stone or aggregate with tar, which is then laid onto the ground and compacted using a vibrating roller; this provides a smooth and durable finish that gives tarmac its recognisable dark black colour.
Concrete
Typically used in local areas, concrete is a popular material for surfacing roads because it is known for its durability. After all, it does not form ruts, depressions or worn grooves caused by the wheels of cars, over time which can cause vehicles to aquaplane. Furthermore, concrete also provides an economical benefit because they come with a relatively low maintenance guarantee in comparison to alternative materials on the market.
When there was a gap in the construction market, the Millgrove team were there to fill it. We guide our clients through each and every step of their project in order to ensure that the finished product meets our impeccable standards and is completed on time in accordance with the client’s budget. In fact, we are set up to carry out all aspects of building including civil engineering contractor works, roads, and even footpaths. To find out more information, get in contact with a member of the Millgrove Construction team today!
