What’s the difference and which surfacing is right for your project?
If you’ve received a quotation for road surfacing, driveway paving, or car park resurfacing, you may have noticed terms such as asphalt, macadam, tarmac, or abbreviated material specifications. These are standard industry terms, but they can be confusing if you’re not familiar with surfacing terminology.
In this guide, we explain the difference between asphalt and macadam, where the term tarmac comes from, and how modern surfacing materials are specified and used today — helping you understand exactly what’s being installed and why.
What Is Asphalt Surfacing?
Asphalt surfacing is a broad term used to describe modern bituminous road and paving materials. In the UK, this typically includes:
- Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA)
- Hot Rolled Asphalt (HRA)
These materials are widely used for road surfacing, commercial car parks, and high-traffic areas. SMA has become particularly popular with highway authorities due to its durability and reduced road noise.
Asphalt Concrete (AC) Explained
As part of European standardisation, asphalt and macadam materials are now classified under the umbrella term Asphalt Concrete (AC).
For example:
- 20mm Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) is now referred to as AC20
While the naming convention has changed, the performance and application of the material remain the same. Both terms are still commonly used within the surfacing industry.
Where Asphalt Is Used in Construction
A typical asphalt construction build-up consists of layered courses, designed to suit the intended use of the surface:
- Base course – provides structural strength
- Binder course – distributes traffic loads
- Surface course – the visible, wearing layer
Materials such as AC20 are usually used in the base or binder layers, while SMA or HRA are commonly specified as the surface course.
Because terms like asphalt, macadam, tarmac, bitmac, and bituminous macadam are often used interchangeably, it’s important to confirm specifications before work begins. As experienced asphalt surfacing contractors, we’re always happy to advise.
What Is Macadam Surfacing?
Macadam surfacing is also known as tarmacadam, which is where the widely used term “tarmac” originates. You may also hear it referred to as:
- Bituminous macadam
- Bitmac
The term comes from John Loudon McAdam, who developed the original macadam road construction method in the early 1800s. His process involved binding small aggregate stones together using tar.
Modern Macadam Materials
Today, bitumen is used instead of tar, which is why the correct modern term is bituminous macadam. Despite this, historic terminology remains in common use, contributing to confusion both inside and outside the industry.
Under current standards, macadam materials are also classified as Asphalt Concrete (AC). In the United States, the word asphalt is used to describe what we refer to in the UK as bitumen.
Coloured Asphalt and Macadam Surfacing
Both asphalt and macadam can be produced in a range of colours by using different aggregates. Coloured surfacing is often specified for:
- Decorative driveways
- Commercial developments
- Pedestrian areas
- Planning-sensitive locations
Coloured asphalt or macadam can affect overall cost, but it can significantly enhance appearance and usability. We’re happy to discuss colour options and recommend the most suitable solution for your project.
Common Applications for Asphalt and Macadam
Asphalt and macadam are highly versatile materials, suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Road surfacing and resurfacing
- Driveway installation
- Car park construction and resurfacing
- Footpaths and access roads
All construction layers — base course, binder course, and surface course — are designed in line with current UK and European standards to ensure durability and long-term performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Asphalt is a broad term for modern bituminous surfacing materials such as SMA and HRA. Macadam, also known as bituminous macadam or bitmac, uses graded aggregates bound with bitumen and is now classified under Asphalt Concrete (AC). In practice, the materials are closely related and often used together.
Tarmac is a non-technical term that originates from tarmacadam. Today, it’s commonly used to describe both asphalt and macadam surfaces, even though it is not a formal specification.
Asphalt Concrete (AC) is the modern European classification that includes both asphalt and macadam materials. For example, Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) is now referred to as AC.
Macadam is commonly used for domestic driveways due to its durability, smooth finish, and cost-effectiveness. SMA may be specified for higher-traffic or premium applications. The best option depends on usage and budget.
Roads and car parks typically use Asphalt Concrete (AC) for base and binder layers, with SMA or HRA specified as the surface course to provide durability, skid resistance, and noise reduction.
Yes. Both materials can be produced in a range of colours using different aggregates, often used for decorative or planning-sensitive areas.
When properly specified and installed, asphalt and macadam surfaces can last 15–25 years or more, depending on traffic levels, groundwork quality, drainage, and maintenance.
Trusted Asphalt and Road Surfacing Contractors
At Edwards Surfacing, we are a trusted road surfacing company and asphalt contractor, delivering high-quality solutions for domestic, commercial, and public sector projects.
Whether you’re planning a new driveway, car park resurfacing, or full road construction, our experienced team can recommend the right materials and specifications for your needs.
If you’re unsure which surfacing option is right for your project, contact us today for expert advice and a no-obligation consultation.