Introduction

Painting tarmac is a great way to revive and protect driveways, tennis courts, or paths, enhancing the appearance and extending the life of the surface. However, the most important step in any painting project is surface preparation. If this step is skipped, the paint will not adhere properly, and the result will be poor. Good preparation will result in a long-lasting finish and improved durability.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to paint tarmac like a professional, ensuring excellent results.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before starting the project, make sure you have all the materials needed:

• HQC Tarmac Paint or Pro Range Tarmac Paint for a durable and long-lasting finish.
• HQC Stabilizing Universal Primer for porous or freshly laid tarmac surfaces.
• Paintbrushes: For detail work around edges and small areas.
• Rollers: For covering larger tarmac surfaces efficiently.
• Paint sprayer: For faster, even coverage on larger areas.
• Painter’s tape: To protect areas you don’t want painted, such as pathways or adjacent surfaces.
• Drop cloths: To cover any surfaces you want to protect from paint spills.
• Pressure washer or stiff brush: To clean the tarmac thoroughly.
• Tarmac repair compound: To fill in cracks or holes before painting.

Step 2: Prepare the Tarmac Surface

Proper preparation is key to a smooth and durable finish. Follow these steps to prepare your tarmac:

1. Clean the Surface: Use a pressure washer or a stiff brush to clean the tarmac surface, removing dirt, debris, and moss. Let the tarmac dry completely before painting.
2. Repair Cracks or Holes: Fill any cracks or holes with a tarmac repair compound and smooth it out to create an even surface. Allow the repair compound to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Remove Loose Paint: If the tarmac has been previously painted, remove any loose or peeling paint. Use primer if required, especially on porous or new tarmac.
4. Tape Off Edges: Use painter’s tape to protect areas you don’t want painted, such as adjoining paths or driveways.

Step 3: Apply Primer

If the tarmac is new, or if it's particularly porous, applying a primer will help ensure the paint adheres properly and gives a smooth finish.

• Pro Tip: For very absorbent tarmac, apply a mist coat by mixing your first coat with 50% water. This will allow the primer to soak into the surface and provide a strong base for your paint. We recommend using HQC Stabilizing Universal Primer for best results.

Step 4: Start Painting the Tarmac

Once your surface is cleaned, prepped, and primed, it’s time to start painting. You can use a brush, roller, or spray depending on the size of the area and your preference.

1. Cut In First: Start by painting the edges and corners of the tarmac using a brush. This will give you control over detail areas and ensure clean edges.
2. Roll or Spray Large Areas: For larger areas, such as driveways or tennis courts, use a roller or sprayer. Apply even, thin coats using a "W" motion to avoid streaks or uneven application.
3. Apply the First Coat: Apply 1 coat first and assess whether the colour and finish meet your expectations. If necessary, apply a second coat for a thicker, bolder finish.
4. Let the Paint Dry: Allow the first coat to dry for 4-6 hours before applying the second coat, if required.

Step 5: Inspect and Touch Up

After the second coat has dried, check for any areas that need touching up. Use a small brush to fix any thin or uneven spots.

Step 6: Clean Up

Once the project is complete, take the time to clean up:

1. Remove Tape: Remove the painter’s tape while the paint is still slightly wet to avoid peeling off dried paint.
2. Clean Your Tools: Clean your brushes, rollers, or sprayer with warm water for future use.
3. Clear the Area: Remove drop cloths and allow the tarmac to fully dry before using the surface again.

Recommended Products

For the best results when painting tarmac, we recommend using the following products from PaintOutlet.co.uk:

• HQC Tarmac Paint: Provides a durable, weather-resistant finish for driveways, tennis courts, and paths.
• Pro Range Tarmac Paint: A professional-grade tarmac reviver for restoring and protecting outdoor surfaces.
• HQC Stabilizing Universal Primer: Perfect for sealing porous tarmac and ensuring proper adhesion of the topcoat.

FAQ Section

Q: What type of paint should I use for tarmac?
A: We recommend HQC Tarmac Paint or Pro Range Tarmac Paint, both of which provide a durable and long-lasting finish on tarmac surfaces.

Q: How many coats of paint should I apply to tarmac?
A: We recommend applying at least two coats for even coverage and durability.

Q: Should I always prime tarmac before painting?
A: Yes, priming is essential for porous or new tarmac to ensure the paint adheres properly and results in a smooth finish.

Q: What makes Pro Range Tarmac Paint different?
A: Pro Range Tarmac Paint features Thermilate Technologies additive, which helps protect against contraction and expansion caused by temperature fluctuations. This advanced technology reflects heat, helping to safeguard the tarmac surface from cold and hot weather.

Conclusion

Painting tarmac can restore and refresh your outdoor surfaces, but proper preparation and high-quality products are key to achieving long-lasting results. By following this step-by-step guide and using products from PaintOutlet.co.uk, you can transform your tarmac surface with a durable and professional-looking finish.

Why shop at PaintOutlet? When you shop with PaintOutlet, you’re saving paint waste, saving money, and saving time. Plus, all of our high-quality paints and primers are made in-house with sustainability in mind, helping to reduce carbon emissions while delivering premium results.