Surface Dressing - Tar & Chip

Surface Dressing, or 'Tar and Chip' is an ideal way to rejuvenate a tired looking tarmac driveway, or give your property a more 'rural' feel.

How it works

The process consitists of three main steps:

• The existing driveway surface is sprayed with a hot coating of bitumen - this is the 'tar' part. Modern bitumen mixes contain advanced polymers that provide a very strong, stable and durable base.
• Whilst the tar is still very hot, stone chippings are spread evenly over the entire surface. The aim is to provide a full gravel surface with no tar left showing.
• A compaction roller is applied to the surface to press the aggregate fully into the tar and to ensure a level, even finish.

You can choose the type and colour of chippings you want as your surface dressing - from small gravel all the way up to large granite chips. We can apply the perfect coating to fit in with your property.

What are the advantages of Tar and Chip Surface Dressing?

Tar and chip surface dressing is less expensive than replacing the tarmac on a driveway. The chippings afford excellent traction as the rough finish of individual stones remains 'grippy' in all conditions. Plain tarmac, on the other hand, can often become slippery when exposed to wet conditions.

Surface dressed tar and chip driveways are low maintenance and stay looking great for many years. They help create a softer, less industrial look to your property, whilst also adding to the safety and usability of your drive.

Is my property suitable for Tar and Chip Surface Dressing?

COLT Drives & Patios can apply a surface dressing to any existing tarmac driveway, or over a prepared sub-base. Both domestic and commercial surfaces can be improved - private roads, industrial parks, caravan sites and holiday parks are all common clients for this type of finish.

Ask our Surface Dressing Experts for more information by calling any of the numbers at the top of the page.