Tar and Chip
Tar and Chip Driveways
Tar and chip, also called chip seal, is a paving method that combines hot liquid asphalt with a top layer of crushed stone. It gives you a textured, natural-looking driveway at a lower cost than full asphalt, with better traction and less glare. We are one of the few contractors in the Fort Mill area that specializes in tar and chip.
Why homeowners choose tar and chip
Tar and chip is a strong fit for long driveways, private roads, and rural properties where the smooth black look of asphalt is not the goal.
- Natural, textured appearance that softens over time
- Better traction than smooth asphalt, especially on slopes
- Lower cost per square foot than hot-mix asphalt on large surfaces
- No sealcoating required
- Weeds and grass have a harder time coming through
How we install tar and chip
The process looks simple but the details matter. Stone size, asphalt temperature, and roller timing all affect how the surface holds up long term.
- Base preparation and grading
- Hot liquid asphalt binder applied at spec temperature
- Immediate application of crushed stone chip
- Roller pass to embed the stone into the binder
- Sweep of loose chip after cure
What to expect the first few weeks
Some loose stone is normal for the first few weeks as any un-bonded chip works its way off. We recommend driving slowly during that window. After the first sweep the surface stabilizes and continues to tighten with traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does tar and chip last?
A well-installed tar and chip surface holds up 7 to 10 years before it needs a fresh coat. Rechipping refreshes both the color and the wear layer.
Is it cheaper than asphalt?
On larger driveways, yes. On very short driveways the price gap narrows because setup and material minimums dominate. We quote both when it makes sense to compare.
Can you do color choices?
Yes. The chip is available in several stone colors, which lets you match your home's landscaping and materials.