When it comes to paving your driveway, there are many options to choose from. One of the more popular choices is chip seal paving, which involves a layer of small stones being laid on top of a layer of asphalt, which is then covered by a thin film of heated asphalt liquid. While there are some definite advantages to this type of paving, there are also some drawbacks.
BG Paving, Inc. provides top-quality residential and commercial paving services throughout the Tri-Cities of Northeast Tennessee, including chip seal driveway paving. Is this paving option right for you? Our professionals look closer at chip seal driveway pros and cons to help you make better-informed decisions.
Chip Seal Driveway Pros
BG Paving, Inc. offers chip seal paving, also called tar and chip paving, for driveways and private roadways. Here are the main reasons property owners choose this method of paving:
- Cost-effective: One of the most significant advantages of chip seal paving is its affordability. It’s a much cheaper option than other types of paving, such as concrete or traditional asphalt, making it an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
- Durability: Chip seal paving is incredibly durable and can last for between 5-8 years. The small stones in the surface layer help to absorb the impact of heavy vehicles and foot traffic, preventing cracks and potholes from forming. It is also less susceptible to damage from freezing.
- Aesthetically pleasing: Chip seal paving has a classic, rustic look that many homeowners find appealing. The small stones create a textured surface that adds visual interest to your driveway.
- Low maintenance: It requires very little maintenance once your chip seal driveway is installed. You may need to sweep or hose it down occasionally to remove debris, but other than that, it’s a very low-maintenance option.
- Drainage: Chip seal 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.
Chip Seal Driveway Cons
With any paving operation or solution, there can be drawbacks. Here are the likely drawbacks to finishing your driveway with tar and chip paving:
- Initial inconvenience: Chip seal paving is somewhat messy during installation. The small stones can scatter around the area, and the process can be noisy and disruptive. Of course, this is true with any type of paving. BG Paving respects your property and minimizes any mess or disruptions.
- Limited customization: Unlike other types of paving, chip seal doesn’t allow much customization. You can choose the color of the stones, but the overall look and texture of the surface will be pretty uniform. Conversely, some property owners like this standardized appearance.
- Repairs are visible: While chip seal paving requires very little maintenance, repairs are visible due to its composition. If damage occurs, BG Paving can return to make repairs, and we will work hard to seamlessly integrate any repaired areas into the overall aesthetic of your driveway. However, repaired spots may still be noticeable.
Tri-Cities Tar and Chip Driveway Paving
Tar and chip driveway paving has its advantages and disadvantages. It’s an affordable, durable option with a unique, rustic look. However, it can be messy during installation, and repairs may be noticeable. If you’re considering chip seal paving for your driveway in Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, or Fall Branch, TN, carefully weigh these chip seal driveway pros and cons.
Then call or message BG Paving, Inc. in Blountville to learn more about tar and chip driveway paving and ask for your free quote.