Tar & Chip Driveways

Tar and chipping driveways are made from a mixture of gravel and tarmac. This combination is far harder and more durable than a pure gravel driveway but not as hard-wearing as a pure concrete drive. You may sometimes see tar and chipping driveways referred to as tar and granite, tar and stone, chip and seal, seal chip, or tar bond.

Although gravel is a less expensive driveway surface, tar-and-chip provides a smoother, more robust surface, but it is also not as long-lasting as concrete. Tar-and-chip paving will last up to ten years, compared to around forty years for concrete.

Tar-and-chip driveways need very little maintenance. It doesn’t need to be repaired often, and minor cracks will normally heal on their own. Once a decade, the surface can be renewed by spreading another layer of tar and gravel chipping on top of the driveway.

A tar & chippings driveway is known for its robust performance and can last many years when installed correctly. Factors such as the quality of the base preparation, amount of traffic, and local weather conditions all influence lifespan, but most tar & chip surfaces can be expected to endure for around 7–15 years with minimal maintenance.

Yes provided the existing surface (such as old tarmac or concrete) is in reasonably good condition, tar & chippings can often be laid on top after proper preparation. This includes cleaning, repairing cracks or potholes, and ensuring good drainage. This makes tar & chip a cost-effective way to refresh an existing driveway without full reconstruction.