Broad surfacing with direct plant control
Our own machinery
We use dedicated in-house equipment for controlled surface application.
Base-led specification
We identify failed areas before deciding whether resurfacing is suitable.
Defined rural finish
You can compare granite or flint chippings for colour and texture.
Practical coverage for broad access areas
A long drive or private lane needs a different answer from a small front garden. Tar and chip surfacing uses hot-applied bitumen emulsion with granite or flint chippings rolled into the surface. It provides a textured, rural-style appearance that suits estate drives, farm tracks, access lanes, private roads and car parks. We use our dedicated in-house tar-and-chip machine, giving us direct control of application during the job. For projects around Newbury, we assess the intended traffic, edge definition, drainage and existing surface before recommending the specification. Aggregate choice affects both the colour and character of the completed area.
Base condition decides what happens next
A sound tarmac or concrete surface can sometimes be prepared and dressed without full reconstruction. Cracking, movement or failed edges may instead point to deeper problems that need corrective groundwork first. We inspect the base, identify repairs and check how water moves across or beside the route. After preparation, we apply the bitumen and spread the selected chippings before rolling them into place. Some loose aggregate is normal during the early settling period. Your written scope explains repairs, edge treatment and surface coverage, so a broad area is not priced on appearance alone while its base quietly waves a small warning flag.
Frequently asked questions
Can tar and chip be laid over an existing drive?
Sometimes. Existing tarmac or concrete must be structurally sound and properly prepared. We inspect movement, cracks, edges and drainage first. Where the base has failed, we recommend corrective groundwork before surface dressing.
Where does tar and chip surfacing work well?
It is useful across long drives, private roads, car parks, farm tracks and access lanes where broad coverage and a textured rural-style finish are priorities. Suitability still depends on base condition and expected traffic.
Will there be loose chippings after installation?
Some loose aggregate is expected while traffic settles the dressed surface. We apply and roll the selected stone as part of the installation, then explain early use and any practical aftercare for the completed area.