When homeowners step into the market searching for an affordable, suitable, and visually appealing alternative to traditional paving, driveway tar & chip sealing remains the number one choice.
Also known as chip seal paving, this method has been used for decades on rural roads, driveway surfaces, and commercial properties. But like any paving option, it comes with both advantages and drawbacks.
How would you decide the type of material you would use for your driveway? Don’t worry, in this article, we aim to provide you with a complete overview of the benefits of a tar and chip driveway, the comparison to asphalt, the costs of installation, and ultimately, whether a tar and chip driveway is a viable option for your property.
Understanding The Concept Of Tar And Chip Seal Driveway
For those with zero understanding of tar and chip seal, it is essential to have an in-depth understanding of tar and chip seal before using it for your property. Created by spraying a layer of hot liquid asphalt (tar) and crushed stones, the process includes:
- Preparing the base
- Application of hot asphalt
- Spreading crushed stone
- Rolling and compacting
Choosing this method helps in creating a durable, textured surface that offers several benefits and a few potential downsides.
Benefits Of a Tar And Chip Driveway
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Cost-Effective Installation
When compared to traditional asphalt, tar, and chip seal driveways hold a significant benefit of being affordable. A driveway made with tar and chip will save 30 to 50 percent as compared to one made using asphalt. This can save a lot of money in case of commercial projects like airport runways or parking lots in shopping malls.
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Natural, Textured Appearance
Individuals who desire to make their driveways look attractive must not fail to use tar and chip seal to construct their driveways. It has a more natural and personalized appearance. Also, you can choose stone colors that complement their home or landscape, something asphalt simply can’t match.
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Excellent Traction
These driveways are a good option for houses that are located on steep hills. The big stones make the surface less slippery and give the driveway more grip even when it’s wet, making it a safer drive for rural properties or driveways that are on a steep incline.
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Faster Installation
If compared to complete asphalt paving, Driveway Tar & Chip Sealing takes less time and equipment for installation, which makes it easier to complete most projects with minimal disruption.
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Resistance To Cracking
Due to its flexibility, tar and chip driveways can tolerate temperature changes as compared to asphalt, thus the tar and chip driveways show minimal or no visible cracks over time.
Disadvantages of a Tar and Chip Driveway.
Although the advantages are pretty attractive, it is necessary to know the drawbacks of the tar and chip driveway to make the right choice.
Loose Stones
During the initial few weeks, loose gravel exists. This does not last forever, although it is inconvenient and messy to some homeowners.
Less Smooth Than Asphalt
In case you are fond of smooth and clean finishes, tar and chip might not impress you. The textured surface becomes rough to the foot.
Limited Repair Options
Tar and chip driveways have some patches that may be more visible and not so smooth, unlike asphalt.
Snow Removal Challenges
The plowing process is very delicate, and the metal blades might dislodge the stones unless they are adjusted.
Durability and Lifespan of Driveways Made of Tar and Chip.
A well-installed surface is spectacular in terms of tar and chip driveway durability. Under regular maintenance, the tar and chip driveway has a normal life expectancy of 7 to 15 years, depending on the traffic, climate, and the methods of maintenance. It can significantly increase the life of the stone bonding and the resealing of each bonding at the same time, and after every few years should significantly increase its life.
Maintenance Tips for Tar and Chip Driveways.
Maintenance is easier than asphalt, but without it, long-term performance becomes impossible:
- Reapplying time should be after every 3-5 years.
- Plow at irregular intervals.
- Solve the drainage problems at the outset.
- Do not turn so much in a single location.
Maintenance of tar and chip driveways makes them perform and look the same.
Is a Tar and Chip Driveway Worth the Money?
Then, is a tar and chip roadway worth it? In the case of homeowners who want an affordable, aesthetically appealing, and long-lasting surface, yes is usually the answer, and indeed for long driveways. Nevertheless, individuals who desire a smooth finish or less gravel slip can use asphalt.
Paving and Seal Professional Chip Seal & Paving.
The selection of the appropriate professionals is the key to performance and duration. Jim Paving and Chip Sealing is a company that is commonly known by chip seal and paving contractors to provide accuracy in installation, quality material, and durability in its work. You need the expertise of driveway tar and chip sealing, whether it’s a residential driveway or a bigger property that needs to be paved, because they know how to make it last and provide the required drainage and the perfect finish that meets the requirements of the clients .
Conclusion
A tar and chip driveway is a good compromise where cost and durability are considered on the one hand and aesthetics on the other. Although it is not as smooth as asphalt, its traction, flexibility, and lower costs make it an excellent combination for most property owners. With a good balance between advantages and disadvantages and collaboration with the professionals, you will be able to experience the service of a good surface and improve your property in the long run.
FAQs
What is the cost of a tar and chip driveway?
A tar and chip driveway is generally 30 to 50 percent cheaper than an asphalt driveway with respect to materials and site preparation.
What is the lifespan of a tar and chip driveway?
The tar and chip driveway can last 15 years with proper care.
Is asphalt inferior to tar and chip?
The tar and chip vs asphalt driveway options are based on cost, appearance, and maintenance.
Is the tar and chip driveway maintained?
No, normal resealing and stone care are necessary to achieve long-term performance.
Are tar and chip driveways able to accommodate heavy cars?
When professionally installed, they are able to sustain moderate traffic, and heavy commercial use could decrease their life span.