Tar & Chip Vs. Asphalt: Which Driveway Is Better?

Tar & Chip Vs. Asphalt: Which Driveway Is Better?

*Key Takeaways:*

– Tar and chip driveways are made by applying a layer of hot tar to the existing driveway. Then a layer of stone chips is spread over the surface of the tar, which is compacted into the tar, creating a durable and long-lasting surface.

– Chip seal is relatively low-maintenance, as they only require occasional sweeping and rinsing to keep them clean.

– Driveways are also less susceptible to damage from freezing temperatures than asphalt driveways. But they can be more challenging to repair than asphalt driveways if they sustain damage.

– Asphalt is a blacktop used for driveways, sidewalks, and roads.

– An asphalt driveway is made from a mixture of gravel, sand, and asphalt cement.

– Asphalt is a durable, weather-resistant material that can last many years with proper maintenance.

– Pickett’s Paving LLC offers paving services to customers in Baraboo, WI, and the surrounding areas.There are a few options for driveway materials: *tar & chip and asphalt*. One of the most popular choices is tar & chip, made of small stones and tar. Another option is asphalt, made of larger rocks and blacktop.

So, which driveway material should you choose? Pickett’s Paving LLC <pickettspaving.com/> will discuss the pros and cons of each material so that you can make an informed decision!

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt is a blacktop used for driveways, sidewalks, and roads. These driveways are made from a mixture of aggregate (crushed stone, gravel, and sand), bitumen (a sticky black matter that is a by-product of the petroleum refining process), and filler material.
They are typically installed by *a paving contractor* with the necessary equipment and expertise. Asphalt driveways need seal coating every few years to protect them from the elements and to keep them looking their best. They can be susceptible to potholes and other damage if they are not properly maintained. Proper maintenance of an asphalt driveway includes regular sweeping to clean off debris, filling in any cracks or holes, and sealing it every few years.

Tar and Chip Driveway

A tar and chip driveway has a gravel base coated with a layer of tar before being covered with stone chips. They are made by spraying a layer of hot tar over the surface with a top layer of stone chips. *Tar and chip driveways* are less costlier than concrete or *asphalt* but require more maintenance.
Tar and chip driveways should be sealed every two to three years to prevent the stones from becoming loose. They are susceptible to potholes and other damage if not properly maintained.
Hire a *paving contractor* to install a tar and chip driveway to ensure it is done correctly.
Click here <www.thespruce.com/pros-and-cons-of-tar-and-chip-driveway-1398079#:~:text=The%20texture%20of%20tar%2Dand,than%20tar%2Dand%2Dchip.> to find out more about tar & chip driveways. Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Driveway Material
Considering a new driveway, you may wonder which material fits your needs. Here, we’ll compare tar and chip driveways with asphalt driveways to help you make an informed decision.
[image: Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Driveway Material]

1. Aesthetics

One of the primary benefits of tar and chip driveways is that they are visually appealing. Tar and chip driveways have a unique look that can enhance a home’s curb appeal. On the other hand, asphalt driveways are much more common and have a more uniform appearance.

2. Cost

*Tar and chip driveways* are typically less expensive than *asphalt*. The materials used to create a *tar and chip driveway* are generally less costly than those used to develop an *asphalt driveway.* Additionally, the installation process for a *tar and chip driveway* is typically quicker and easier than an *asphalt driveway*, which can also help reduce costs.

3. Durability

Tar and chip driveways are also very durable, as the stones on the surface provide excellent traction and resist wear and tear from traffic. Asphalt driveways, however, can crack and crumble over time if they are not properly maintained.
*Asphalt driveways* typically last for 20-30 years before they need to be replaced, while *tar and chip driveways* usually only last for 10-15 years. It makes asphalt a more durable option, although both materials are long-lasting.

4. Climate Considerations

Asphalt can withstand extreme temperatures (hot or cold). At the same time, tar and chip driveways are not as tolerant of extreme heat or cold. Asphalt may be the better option for your driveway if you live in an area with sweltering summers or frigid winters.

5. Maintenance

Tar and chip driveways are low maintenance, as the stones used on the surface protect the underlying asphalt from UV rays and other elements that can cause damage. On the other hand, asphalt driveways require regular sealing to prevent cracking and deterioration.

6. Weather Resistance

*Tar and chip driveways* are also weather-resistant. They do not crack or crumble like asphalt driveways in extreme heat or cold. Additionally, tar and chip driveways are not affected by salt or other chemicals that can damage asphalt driveways.

7. Installation Process

The installation process for a *tar and chip driveway* is typically quicker and easier than that of an *asphalt driveway*. Asphalt driveways need to be carefully prepared before being installed, which can add to the overall cost and time required for the project. Tar and chip driveways do not require as much preparation before installation, which can help to save time and money.

8. Disposal of Waste Material

Another advantage of tar and chip driveways is that there is very little waste material generated during installation. Most of the material used in a tar and chip driveway can be recycled or reused, which helps to reduce environmental impact. Asphalt driveways generate significant waste during installation, as unused asphalt must be disposed of properly.
Also, read our blog on how recycled asphalt changes the paving game. <pickettspaving.com/how-recycled-asphalt-is-changing-the-paving-game-the-benefits-and-process/>

9. Drainage

Tar and chip driveways have excellent drainage properties. The gravel used in the mix helps promote water drainage, and the material’s porous nature helps prevent puddling and pooling. Asphalt driveways can also have good drainage properties. Still, they are more susceptible to puddling and pooling due to the compact nature of the material.

10. Traffic

Tar and chip driveways can withstand significant traffic without showing wear and tear. The gravel used in the mix is very durable, and the material itself is flexible, which helps to prevent cracking under heavy loads. Asphalt driveways are also very durable but more susceptible to cracking under heavy loads due to their compactness. Need Paving Services in Baraboo, WI? No Problem!
If you’re still undecided about which driveway material suits you, consider consulting with the professional *paving contractor* at Pickett’s Paving LLC <pickettspaving.com/>, serving *Baraboo, WI*.
We will assess your needs to advise you on which option is best for your home or business. To create beautiful and reliable pavement, we offer paving services <pickettspaving.com/our-services/> for both possibilities, asphalt paving <pickettspaving.com/our-services/asphalt-paving/> and chip seal <pickettspaving.com/our-services/chip-seal/>.
So, what are you waiting for? Get a free quote <pickettspaving.com/get-a-free-quote/> today!
The post Tar & Chip Vs. Asphalt: Which Driveway Is Better? <pickettspaving.com/tar-chip-vs-asphalt-which-driveway-is-better/> appeared first on Picketts Paving LLC