Are you looking for an affordable and durable driveway surfacing option? Look no further than tar and chip surface dressing! In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this popular choice, from what it is and how it’s used to its advantages and limitations. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, you’ll find valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about whether tar and chip surfacing is right for your needs.
So, what exactly is tar and chip surfacing? Simply put, it’s a layer of hot binder topped with a chosen aggregate, which can vary in size depending on the type of binder used. Also known as hot tar and chip, tar and gravel, and other names, tar and chip surfacing can be found on everything from private driveways to main roads. It’s a cost-effective and long-lasting option that’s especially popular in rural areas and informal landscapes.
In this post, we’ll dive deeper into the advantages of tar and chip surfacing, including its affordability, durability, and traction. We’ll also discuss some of its limitations, such as its unsuitability for steep driveways and its tendency to require repairs over time. By the end of this post, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of tar and chip surfacing and whether it’s right for your specific needs.
Tar and chip surfacing is a method of creating a smooth and uniform surface. The process involves repairing any potholes or imperfections, ensuring a clean surface, selecting the correct spread rate for binder type, and applying aggregate over the binder. The surface dressing is then immediately rolled over to compact the aggregate into the binder.
When starting with a solid base such as concrete or tarmac, the tar and chip is laid on top, with a layer of tar applied and rolled onto a surface containing bitumen. If there is no solid base, the area is excavated and a new base course is laid, followed by the surface dressing using a hot surface dressing emulsion and the stone is spread and compacted.
Choosing a good local contractor for tar and chip surfacing can be difficult, but Norfolk Surfacing offers over 30 years of experience with tar and chip, tarmacadam driveways, and more. We provide a high-quality service at competitive prices, completed within the specified time and to a high standard. Our experienced team members ensure that every job is of the highest standards and we take pride in our work and equipment. Tar and chip paving is a durable and natural-looking alternative to tarmac or block paving.
