15

Feb

How to Clean Moss off Tarmac Driveways

Moss growth is one of the most common issues affecting tarmac driveways, especially in damp regions like Dorset, Devon, and Somerset. While tarmac offers durability, affordability, and a smooth finish, its textured surface can trap moisture creating the perfect habitat for moss. If left untreated, moss can make your driveway slippery, unsightly, and even cause gradual surface deterioration.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean moss off tarmac driveways safely, which products to use (and avoid), and how to prevent regrowth long-term all while keeping your driveway looking great and functioning at its best.

Why Moss Grows on Tarmac Driveways

Tarmac naturally contains tiny pores and textures. These grooves hold water after rain, making it a prime environment for moss especially if your driveway receives limited sunlight.

Key reasons moss thrives on tarmac driveways:

  • Dampness: Water settles easily in the textured surface.
  • Shade: Overhanging branches and nearby lawns reduce heat and airflow.
  • Organic matter: Dirt and debris provide nutrients for moss growth.
  • Surface texture: The small gaps protect moss from friction caused by car tyres.

Understanding these conditions helps you choose the right cleaning and prevention methods.

How to Clean Moss off Tarmac Driveways (Step-by-Step)

Below is a safe and effective method for removing moss without damaging your tarmac driveway.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Before applying any cleaning solution:

  • Use a stiff brush, broom, or garden rake to remove loose moss.
  • Sweep away leaves, mud, and organic buildup.
  • Clear drainage channels to prevent standing water.

This step ensures your cleaning agent can penetrate deeper into the tarmac surface.

Step 2: Apply a Safe Moss Treatment

Choosing the right cleaning agent is essential. Some chemicals can weaken the binder in tarmac and cause long-term damage.

Recommended cleaning agents:

  • Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
  • Sodium percarbonate (oxygen-based cleaner)

These eco-friendly options effectively break down moss without harming the tarmac, nearby plants, or soil.

How to apply:

  1. Wet small sections of your driveway.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda or dissolve sodium percarbonate in water.
  3. Scrub with a hard-bristled brush to reach deeper gaps.
  4. Allow the solution to sit for 20–40 minutes.

During this period, the moss begins to weaken and detach from the surface.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Once the cleaner has worked its magic:

  • Use a garden hose to rinse away loosened moss.
  • Avoid high-pressure jet washers, they can strip the binder from tarmac.
  • Repeat the process in heavy moss areas if necessary.

Your tarmac driveway should now look cleaner, brighter, and more uniform.

How to Prevent Moss Returning on Tarmac Driveways

Cleaning is only half the solution. Preventing moss from returning keeps your driveway safer and looking its best all year round.

Test Soil pH Around the Driveway

Moss thrives in acidic environments. If your soil pH is below 6, moss is more likely to grow.

Solution:
 Apply agricultural lime to increase alkalinity and discourage future growth.

Increase Sun Exposure

Shade is one of the biggest contributors to moss growth.

Consider:

  • Trimming trees or hedges
  • Thinning branches to allow more light
  • Ensuring your driveway receives good airflow

Sunlight naturally dries moisture that moss relies on.

Avoid Over-Watering or Flooding the Driveway

When cleaning or rinsing your tarmac driveway:

  • Avoid excessive watering
  • Always choose a sunny day
  • Let the surface dry completely

A dry driveway is significantly less likely to develop moss.

Regular Maintenance and Sweeping

Simple monthly upkeep can prevent most moss growth:

  • Sweep away leaves and debris
  • Rinse lightly during dry weather
  • Inspect for early moss patches and treat immediately

Staying ahead of the issue saves time and protects the lifespan of your tarmac driveway.

Signs Your Tarmac Driveway Needs Professional Attention

While many homeowners clean moss themselves, there are times when expert help is essential. Consider contacting a professional if you notice:

  • Persistent moss returning even after cleaning
  • Cracks or loose aggregates
  • Uneven surfaces or water pooling
  • Ageing tarmac that looks worn or brittle

Professionals like Dares Surfacing can assess whether resurfacing, repairs, or a fresh tarmac layer is needed.

Why Tarmac Driveways Are Worth Maintaining

Properly maintained tarmac driveways can last 15–20 years or more. Benefits of keeping your driveway clean include:

  • Improved appearance
  • Better traction and safety
  • Longer lifespan
  • Increased property value
  • Reduced risk of costly structural repairs

Regular upkeep prevents small issues like moss from becoming bigger problems.

Professional Tarmac Driveway Services in Dorset, Devon & Somerset

If your tarmac driveway needs more than a simple clean, or you’re considering a brand-new installation, Dares Surfacing provides:

  • Professional tarmacing for driveways, paths & car parks
  • Resurfacing and repairs
  • Drainage improvements
  • Long-lasting, cost-effective driveway solutions

Conclusion

Moss growth is a common and frustrating issue for homeowners, but with the right approach, you can safely clean moss off tarmac driveways and prevent it from returning. Regular maintenance, sunlight exposure, gentle cleaning agents, and good surface care all contribute to a healthier, longer-lasting driveway.

If you want expert guidance, professional installation, or durable resurfacing, Dares Surfacing is your trusted specialist across Dorset, Devon, and Somerset.

📞Call us today on 07970 027 614
 or visit https://daressurfacing.co.uk/tarmacing/ Let us help you transform and protect your tarmac driveway for years to come.

11

May

Tarmac vs Block Paving

Tarmac vs Block Paving

With time to ponder and think about certain cosmetics your home may need, you may be looking into getting a new driveway. This begs the question, which driveway is best for you? This article will provide some insight on the pros of each paving method to aid you in your choice.

Before continuing to the article, be sure to contact Dares Surfacing for any enquiries on surfacing services. We design, supply and install all of our services, from tarmac driveways to paving slabs. Our friendly team can provide you with a quote, based on your scenario, budget and cosmetic requirements. Our expert team will aid you in coming to a solution on the best paving method for you.

Block Paving

Block paving has become very popular over the last few years, and a stunning driveway can be created whilst getting value for money. Ideal for driveways, patios and pathways, this product can also be sealed to protect its surface. The downsides are that it is prone to moss and weeds growing up through it and requires maintenance.

Block Paving benefits:

  • Highly durable and attractive
  • Many different colours, styles and textures available
  • Can be used almost anywhere
  • Blocks can be used to provide a very smooth finish

Tarmac

Tarmac will provide the ideal surface for most driveways, if it is going to have heavy usage, this product is best suitable as it is required for most road surfaces. It will provide a flat surface with enough grip in most weather conditions. Consisting of tar and broken stone, it is naturally dark coloured, but you can have the option of having a coloured tarmac driveway.

Tarmac benefits:

  • Very hard-wearing and long-lasting
  • Fast curing
  • Ideal for driveways and paths
  • Can be mixed with block paving
  • Flat surface, ideal for wheelchairs and buggies
  • Can be cheaper than other surfaces

 The Verdict – Tarmac or Block Paving?

Ultimately there are three factors which usually determine whether a block paving or tarmacadam driveway is installed. The first is the look of the finished driveway and whether it will fit in with the house and the neighbours. The second is the time it will take to do the installation and the third is the cost. If speed and cost are the main issues for you then tarmacadam is nearly always the best way to go. If you are more interested in the overall look then block paving will give you more options in terms of colour and pattern. Contact us !

09

Apr

How To Maintain Tarmac Driveway

Maintaining Tarmac Driveway

As time goes by, your tarmac driveway may begin looking worse for wear. Or maybe you have recently moved into a house with a less-than-peak condition driveway. The good news is that this article will aid you in restoring your driveway to its former glory, as well as maintaining its new look in the future.

Before continuing to the article, be sure to contact Dares Surfacing for any enquiries on surfacing services. We design, supply and install all of our services, from tarmac driveways to paving slabs.

Maintenance, Cleaning & Repairs

One of the simple signs to look out for with driveways is it becoming cracked and the material getting loose. There are a variety of things that may cause this and you can do things to prevent it. If you start to notice cracks, make sure you clean them regularly and pull up any plant life. The roots may get deeper into the driveway and cause more issues in the future. If you have loose gravel like material, you may need to think about resurfacing or sanding and resealing.

You should always keep your drive as clear as possible and avoid the build up of things like leaves and standing water. If you get your hands on a good sealant you should find you don’t need to perform as much maintenance. A new coat of sealant can make your drive look refreshed again.

Protect Tarmac With Sealant

To extend the life of your tarmac driveway, you can apply a sealant to its surface. Most professionals will apply it after a year of its installation. The sealant works as a barrier to the elements that can cause damage to the surface and allow the driveway to stay fresh and clean.

By maintaining your tarmac driveway properly, you are protecting your investment. You are also allowing your property to look good and not have to think about replacing the driveway entirely for a long time to come. If you do not have time to do everything on your own, it is best to bring in a professional who can come in and check your driveway from time to time. They have knowledge and expertise to maintain your driveway in a way that it looks good all the time.

Different Forms Of Tarmac Damage

Tarmac scuffs

As tarmac driveway ages, the black part of the material will fade away. One of the reasons for tarmac scuffing is the turning of vehicle wheels while it is standing on the driveway. You can reduce the amount of beating that the driveway takes by simply avoiding turning wheels when it is stationary.

Spillage on tarmac driveway

Even though a small amount of spillage of gasoline or oil will not adversely affect your driveway, a large amount will greatly weaken the base and also cause cracks on the surface which then has to be repaired by a professional. It is best to remove any oil spillage using sand or sawdust that can soak it from the surface. If there is a gasoline spillage, it is best to use water to wash it.

Tarmac indentation and spot damage

A newly laid tarmac driveway will be prone to dents if heavy items are administered over it before it sets. Even after that, constant use of weighty products such as ladders, caravans, trailers, car jacks, and others can cause depression on the driveway. You can avoid it by using a piece of plywood before using heavy items so that the weight is more evenly distributed. Contact us for more detail .