Tar and Chip Driveways: An Alternative to Traditional Asphalt
Tar and chip paving is a driveway and road surface made by applying hot liquid asphalt, then covering it with crushed stone and compacting it into place. It creates a textured, durable surface with strong traction and a more natural look than blacktop asphalt. Tar and chip is often a good choice for rural driveways, private roads, long entrances, farm roads, and mountain properties where grip, appearance, and budget matter.
Tar and chip paving (also called chip seal) is a driveway surface made by spraying hot liquid asphalt over a gravel base, then embedding crushed stone on top. It costs less than traditional asphalt, offers natural traction and a rustic look, and needs no sealcoating, though it’s rougher and lasts slightly fewer years.
Looking for something different than standard asphalt for your driveway or private road? Tar and chip paving is worth considering. The installation process is similar to regular paving, but you get more options for color and texture than basic black asphalt.
At Uniform Paving & Sealcoating, we specialize in tar and chip installations. You might also hear it called chip-and-seal, seal chip, or macadam – different names for the same technique.
How It’s Done
The construction process goes like this:
We start with your roadbed and lay down a gravel base. Then we pour hot liquid asphalt over that base to hold it together. While the asphalt’s still hot, we spread your chosen stone across the surface and compact it with a roller. Finally, we sweep away any loose stones that didn’t get pressed in.
If you already have pavement in good condition, we can apply tar and chip directly over it.
What Makes It Different from Regular Asphalt
Lower cost. Tar and chip typically costs less than traditional asphalt paving.
Color variety. The stone stays on top instead of being mixed in, so it keeps its natural color. We offer granite, white rock, pink rock, slate brown, and beige river rock. You can match your property’s aesthetic or just pick what you like.
Less maintenance. Standard asphalt needs resealing every 3-5 years. Tar and chip doesn’t require that upkeep.
Textured surface. The rough finish provides traction in wet or snowy conditions. The lighter colors also absorb less heat than black asphalt during summer.
How Long Does It Last?
Typically 7-10 years, depending on how many layers are applied, how much traffic it gets, and what kind of vehicles use it regularly.
Important Note About Snow Removal
If you get snow that needs plowing, don’t use a scraper blade on tar and chip. It’ll pull up the stones and damage the surface. Use a plow that rides above the surface or a snowblower instead.
Works Well For
Residential driveways, farm roads, and private lanes all work well with this type of paving.
Your driveway makes a first impression. It affects property value and eliminates the dust and mud you’d deal with otherwise.
Get a Free Estimate
Uniform Paving & Sealcoating handles tar and chip paving, driveway repair, sealcoating, and concrete installation. We’ll visit your site and provide a free estimate.
Contact us to discuss your project.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt Paving
How do I know if my driveway needs paving or repair?
A driveway may need paving or repair if it has potholes, wide cracks, standing water, broken edges, soft spots, or areas where the surface is sinking. If the base is weak or drainage is poor, sealcoating alone will not fix the problem.
Is asphalt paving better than sealcoating?
Asphalt paving and sealcoating serve different purposes. Paving builds or replaces the surface. Sealcoating protects asphalt that is already stable. If the pavement is faded but solid, sealcoating may be enough. If it is cracked, uneven, or failing, paving or repair may be needed.
How long does an asphalt driveway last?
A properly installed asphalt driveway can last many years when the base is stable, drainage is correct, and maintenance is done on time. Crack repair, sealcoating, and fixing drainage problems early can help extend the life of the surface.
What causes asphalt to fail early?
Asphalt often fails early because of poor drainage, weak base preparation, heavy traffic, standing water, oil damage, tree roots, or cracks that are left open. Once water reaches the base, the surface can begin to break apart.
Do I need a site visit before getting a paving price?
Yes. A site visit gives the most accurate paving estimate because price depends on size, slope, drainage, access, base condition, and the type of surface needed. Phone-only pricing can miss important site conditions.
Does Uniform Paving & Sealcoating handle residential and commercial paving?
Yes. Uniform Paving & Sealcoating provides residential and commercial paving services for driveways, parking lots, private roads, subdivisions, golf cart paths, and asphalt maintenance projects.