DUBLIN PATIO SERVICES

Tarmac & Asphalt Patio Installation in Dublin

A time-tested favourite, tarmac or asphalt patios continue to hold their appeal for many, traditionally chosen in classic black. Our expertise allows us to incorporate steps, borders, and unique designs, providing a customized finish that enhances your outdoor space. This option is especially suited to larger areas such as school yards, creches, car parks, and expansive gardens. While tarmac is primarily known for its black hue, we also offer it in alternative colours like red, yellow, and grey. However, it’s worth noting that these special colour choices may carry a higher cost, leading some of our clients to explore other patio solutions.

What is the difference in between Tarmac and Asphalt?

Although many homeowners and even contractors use the words “asphalt” and “tarmac” interchangeably, the two materials aren’t identical—each relies on a different binder and offers slightly different performance advantages.

Feature	Asphalt (Bitumen-Bound)	Tarmac (Tar-Bound)	What It Means for Your Patio
Binder	Petroleum bitumen	Coal-tar derivative	Tar gives a slightly softer, more traditional finish; bitumen is now easier to source and regulate.
Durability	Higher tensile strength, resists cracking	Slightly more flexible under load	Asphalt lasts longer under heavy furniture, but tarmac cushions foot traffic and sports impact.
Noise & Comfort	Harder surface, louder bounce	Better sound-damping, softer underfoot	Tarmac is a plus for play zones or seating areas where comfort matters.
Decorative Options	Pigmentable mixes (black, red, green, buff)	Accepts “tar-and-chip” stone dressing for rustic look	Choose asphalt for bold solid colours; choose tarmac for heritage chip finish.
Typical Layer Names	AC 10 binder + AC 6 surface	Tarmacadam surface course	Specs and aggregate grading are clearer for asphalt, but tarmac’s spec is simpler to lay on small jobs.
Cost (Ireland)	€60 – €80 / m² installed	€55 – €75 / m² installed (where available)	Tarmac can trim the budget on large areas, provided tar supply is local and compliant.

Why Choose a Tarmac or an Asphalt Patio?

Tough Enough for Irish Winters
Asphalt’s bitumen binder (and tarmac’s tar-based cousin) creates a flexible yet ultra-hard-wearing surface that shrugs off heavy furniture, play equipment and sudden frosts.
Quick to Install, Quick to Enjoy
Because tarmac comes hot-mixed and compresses rapidly, a typical 40 m² patio is ready to walk on within 24 hours-no weeks of curing like concrete.
Cost-Effective Over Large Area
Per-square-metre costs are among the lowest of any patio material, making tarmac ideal for expansive gardens, school yards and crèches.
Surprisingly Customisable
Modern pigment technology means your patio isn’t limited to basic black. Ask about red, green, buff or charcoal grey mixes to match planting schemes or play-zone markings.
Low Hassle for Decades
An annual sweep and a five-yearly seal coat keep the surface looking fresh; no weeding or re-pointing required.

Design Extras We Can Add

In-laid paving borders (porcelain, sandstone, granite)
Contrasting colour bands for play courts or cycle paths
Recessed manhole covers that vanish into the surface
LED strip lighting embedded along patio edges

Ready to Book Your Free Consultation?

Ready to get your patio upgraded with the best tarmac or asphalt paving in Dublin? Contact us today for expert advice, a free quote and the biggest range of porcelain tiles at the best prices.

You can use our booking form: https://patiopavingdublin.ie/booking/, email us at info@patiopavingdublin.ie or give us a call at 0852175888

       EXCELLENT  
   Based on 45 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
  
 
   m power 
 494 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
I am delighted with the work they carried out on my steps and patio
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Bernie Priestley 
 499 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Just got our patio done. Tony and his crew were excellent. From the first contact to the end result was extremely professional and every contact was replied too in a timely manner which in these times of boom is rare. I would have no hesitation in recommending them. Thank you
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Eamon McEntee 
 589 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Tony & team were very efficient with great quality work. Very happy.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Daryl lester Udani 
 602 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
We couldn’t be happier with the patio built by Tony's team! They did a great job and the result was amazing. They were professional, friendly, and made sure to fix any issues I had. And they worked quickly as well. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a beautiful and well-built patio!"
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Bobbie Cannon 
 612 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
After researching for a while, I chose Patio Paving (Driveway Paving) as Tony was quick to respond to my enquiry and answered all my questions and concerns. His quote was very reasonable for the amount of work required. He was also able to fit my job in quickly. His team showed up on time and worked so hard the job was done in under two days. They explained everything, were friendly and polite. The finished job was superb and they cleaned and tidied up afterwards. I cannot recommend them enough.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Sinead Whelan 
 801 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
Tony was a dream to deal with from the beginning. The work was carried out so efficiently and the end result was beyond what we could have imagined. Couldn’t recommend them highly enough
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Liz Coggins 
 818 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
We were delighted with work Tony did for us 4 years ago on our back garden so when we needed front garden done we had no hesitation in contacting him  and again a super job by him and his team.Tony is very easy to deal with and made some great recommendations.We are very happy.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   valerie craine 
 824 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Having dealt with other contractors not turning up when agreed or late, I had no such problems with Patio Paving. On time, efficient, and did a fabulous job. I would have no hesitation in recommending them. Thank you to Tony and all the team.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Tony Call 
 841 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
After being told we would have to wait for at least six weeks to have a patio installed, the job taking a week to do, and having been quoted an extortionate amount of money for the privilege, we had a look around, and thanks to Microsoft Copilot and Google Maps reviews, we decided to give Tony a call. I called Tony on a Wednesday and by the following Wednesday, we already had our new patio. The lads arrived at 7:30 am and were finished by 4 pm on the same day. The service was second-to-none. I can't fault anything. The team were very friendly and efficient. Tony was very responsive. The price for the patio was very reasonable. The new patio installation has transformed our back garden. We are extremely happy with the level of work carried out by the five-man team. Thanks for everything, lads.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
  
 
   Kevin Leonard 
 868 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
We had Tonys' lads out to install another 100m² of granite slabs & cobble sets. They did a fantastic job, yet again. They are a pleasure to work with, efficient,  hard working & always willing to adapt plans as work progresses. I highly recommend this company for all your driveway & patio needs.

TARMAC / ASPHALT PATIOS PICS FROM OUR GALLERY

asphalt patio construction site with tarmac driveway

asphalt driveway work dublin

completed asphalt patio dublin

asphalt patios way dublin

asphalt patio modern garage with paved driveway

asphalt patio landscaped driveway with wooden fences

asphalt patio dublin house

asphalt patio dublin driveway

asphalt patio dublin

Asphalt Patio Design PatiopavingDublin

asphalt driveway work dublin

USE OUR

PATIO COST CALCULATOR

TO GET AN ESTIMATE FOR YOUR PROJECT

Transform Your Outdoor Space Today! 🌟

Book your free consultation with Patio Paving Dublin and let’s design the perfect Tarmac / Asphalt patio tailored to your style and budget.

Call us: 019039026 or 0852175888

Email us: info@patiopavingdublin.ie

Book online: https://patiopavingdublin.ie/booking/

Your dream patio is just a step away!

FAQs About Tarmac / Asphalt Patio Paving in Dublin

1. How much does a tarmac or asphalt patio cost in Ireland?

Expect €80–€100 per m². The final figure depends on colour pigments, site access, excavation depth and any extras such as borders or lighting. We confirm a fixed price after a free site survey.

2. How long does installation take?

A typical 40 m² patio is excavated, based and surfaced in one to two days. Because hot-mix tarmac compacts quickly, you can walk on it after 24 hours and place garden furniture within 3 days (5 days in winter).

3. Can you lay tarmac over existing concrete or paving slabs?

Yes—provided the base is solid, crack-free and has adequate falls for drainage. We mill or key the surface for adhesion, add a regulating binder layer, then roll a fresh surface course. Where concrete is unstable we recommend a full dig-out and new sub-base.

4. Is tarmac slippery when wet?

No—properly laid tarmacadam includes a stone matrix that creates natural texture. Our surface mix meets pedestrian slip-resistance standards, and we can broadcast extra grit while the asphalt is still hot for ramps, play areas or shaded spots where maximum grip is essential.

5. What’s the difference between tarmac and asphalt?

Traditional tarmacadam uses a coal-tar binder and is slightly softer with a classic matte look. Modern asphalt uses petroleum bitumen, offers higher tensile strength and a wider range of pigmentable colours. We usually lay asphalt for patios, but can source tar-bound mixes for heritage projects.