Tar and Chip Driveways in Southern Maryland
A stone-finish surface for lanes and rural driveways.
Free Estimate: (410) 212-8084Tar and chip is liquid asphalt sprayed onto a prepared base and covered with stone. South State Paving installs tar and chip driveways, a common choice for long lanes and rural properties. George Cooper, the owner, is a fourth-generation paver. South State Paving is family owned and operated, the owners are on site on jobs, and the company holds Maryland Home Improvement Commission license #05-169105.
What pavement engineers say about chip seal
Pavement Interactive, a pavement engineering reference, describes a chip seal, also called a seal coat or bituminous surface treatment, as a thin protective wearing surface: asphalt, typically an emulsion, covered with a single layer of aggregate. Two layers are called a double shot.
It says the cover stone increases surface friction, that chip seal should never be placed on rainy days or when rain is predicted, and that on roads a two to four year service life is common, with five years achievable.
Sources
- Pavement Interactive, Bituminous Surface Treatments (chip seals)
Tar & Chip step-by-step
We walk the property with you and explain every step before work starts.
We walk the property with you and explain every step before work starts.
The Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association says the subgrade should be graded smooth and free of organic material.
It says base aggregate should be spread evenly and compacted with suitable rollers.
It says drainage, crown and slopes need to be addressed. NAPA calls standing water the leading cause of driveway failure.
“Charlie with South State Paving did an excellent job in sealing my driveway.”
Tar & Chip Projects
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Tar & Chip FAQs
What is tar and chip?
Pavement Interactive describes it as a chip seal or bituminous surface treatment: asphalt, typically an emulsion, sprayed on and covered with a single layer of aggregate. A two-layer version is called a double shot.
How long does tar and chip last?
Pavement Interactive says a two to four year service life is common for chip seals on roads, with five years achievable. A driveway sees far less traffic than a road, so ask at the estimate what to expect for yours.
How much does a tar and chip driveway cost?
It depends on the size of the area, the condition of what is underneath, drainage and grading, the material thickness, and access for equipment. South State does not publish prices. Estimates are free: call (410) 212-8084. The National Asphalt Pavement Association recommends getting bids in writing that state the pavement thickness, site preparation and drainage responsibilities, the payment schedule and the warranty.