Many people confuse tarmac and asphalt. While the two materials look very similar and are used for similar surface applications, it is incorrect to use the two terms interchangeably. If you’re after a tarmac company, you should settle with an asphalt contractor instead – and here’s why.
Difference Between Asphalt And Tarmac
Tarmac, or tarmacadam, is a mix of crushed stone or aggregate and tar. It is a very durable material, and for this reason, it used to be laid on surfaces trafficked by heavy vehicles such as airplanes and road trains. In fact, it is so common on airport runways that tarmac has become a synonym of “airport runway”.
Asphalt is very similar to tarmac, but the binding agent used is bitumen instead of tar. Bitumen is a by-product of petroleum distillation. Despite having a similar composition, asphalt is harder wearing (and cheaper) and has now substituted tarmac completely in Australia.
Because of the many similarities between the two, when people look for a tarmac company near them, they are really looking for an asphalting company.
How To Choose A “Tarmac Company”
If you are looking to engage a tarmac company in Perth, please remember that you will only find companies that install asphalting surfaces in Australia.
With that in mind, here is a list of tips to help you select a reliable asphalting company:
- Check the website for testimonials. This will allow you to get an idea of the sentiment that clients have towards the company you are considering engaging.
- If available, look for case studies and galleries to see pictures and read details of real projects, to get a better idea of the output you can expect to get for your own project.
- Look for independent reviews online. The testimonials featured on the website will of course be a selection of glowing reviews, but a 5-star rating on Google or Facebook is harder to fake.
What Questions To Ask A “Tarmac Company”
Close up of a tarmac surface.
How Long Have You Been In Business?
Obtaining high-level background information on the company and its operations will give you more insights into the quality of their output.
Many of NK Asphalt employees, for example, have been working with us for over 20 years – bringing an enviable wealth of experience to each job. Moreover, they are extremely qualified to train and supervise newer employees.
We also own all the equipment that we use, meaning that:
- Your project will not be held up by delays from the rental company.
- Our asphalters know the machines like the back of their hand, resulting in increased safety and fast operations.
Do You Surface All Area Sizes and Types?
It is important to find out that the “tarmac” company can service the area you want.
NK Asphalt for example, services residential, commercial and government areas, including semi-rural and larger suburban driveways, shopping centre car parks, body corporate and strata title car parks, commercial and heavy-duty areas, sport courts, and more.
However, we ask for a minimum land size of 150m2.
What Asphalt Colours Do You Offer?
That’s right, asphalt comes in more colours than dark grey and NK Asphalt offers three asphalt colours for clients to choose from.
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- Black Asphalt
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- Dark Brown Asphalt
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- Red Oxide Asphalt
If you are unsure about what colour to choose, let our experienced team of asphalters help you decide.
What Areas Do You Service?
Some contractors will only service Perth Metro while others, like NK Asphalt, are happy to drive further. In fact, we specialise in semi-rural asphalt installations.
NK Asphalt services Perth Metro and surroundings, from Yanchep all the way to Northam, The Perth Hills, Serpentine and down to Rockingham, Mandurah and Pinjarra.
Get A Quote For Tarmac (i.e. Asphalt) In Perth
If your job is 150m2 or more and in the Perth or surrounding areas.
