Premium tar and chip surfacing,
across Norfolk.

With proper preparation and correct installation, a tar and chip surface lasts 15-20 years across Norfolk's weather. The hot bitumen spray bonds the stone chippings into a durable, hard-wearing surface that copes well with regular vehicle traffic, rural use and freeze-thaw winters.

Longevity depends on the condition of the underlying surface, the quality of the bitumen, and the size and grade of the stone chippings. We use correctly specified bitumen and properly graded aggregate to give the finish maximum life.

A small amount of loose chipping in the first few days is normal — we always lay slightly more stone than the surface can hold so that the bitumen fully embeds the chippings. After the first week of vehicle traffic, the surface stabilises and the loose stone clears.

What causes stone loss longer-term is incorrect application — cold bitumen, wrong stone grade, or insufficient rolling. We spray at the correct temperature, use properly graded chippings, and roll thoroughly so the chippings bond permanently.

You can drive on a freshly laid tar and chip surface within 24 hours in good conditions. In cooler or wetter weather we may recommend 48 hours to let the bitumen cure fully before any vehicle loading.

For the first week or so, avoid tight steering manoeuvres and heavy braking on the surface — both can dislodge chippings before they're fully bonded. After that the surface handles normal driveway and access-road use without issue.

Tar and chip is typically 10-20% cheaper than tarmac per square metre. Because it's a single-pass application laid over an existing base, labour and material costs are lower. For larger driveways, access roads or rural lanes the saving across the whole project is significant.

It's more expensive than gravel, but cheaper than resin bound or block paving — and offers durability and aesthetics that gravel can't match. Excellent value when appearance and longevity both matter.

Yes — tar and chip is often laid as a resurfacing finish over an existing tarmac, concrete or compacted aggregate base. We assess the existing surface, patch any low spots or potholes, then apply the hot bitumen and stone chippings on top.

This makes it an excellent option for tired driveways that don't need to be dug out and rebuilt. The new surface adds grip, refreshes the appearance, and seals the existing base against further weathering.

Yes — the stone chipping is the visible finish, so you choose the colour. We offer a range of natural stones including golden buff, cotswold cream, slate grey, granite, flint and red. The bitumen underneath is black but is largely hidden once the chippings are laid.

Lighter stones suit modern country properties and brighter settings. Darker stones (slate, granite, flint) feel more traditional and suit period buildings and rural estates. We'll bring samples to your site visit so you can pick on site.

Very little. A regular sweep clears any leaves and debris. Occasional power washing keeps the stone looking sharp. Avoid using sharp metal-tipped tools that could dislodge chippings, but otherwise the surface handles itself.

After 10-15 years, a thin refresh bitumen coat (a 'fog seal') extends the surface life noticeably. Small patches and edge repairs are simple to carry out with matching chippings — no specialist equipment required.

The opposite — tar and chip provides excellent grip in wet weather. The exposed stone chippings create a textured surface that gives outstanding traction under tyres and underfoot. It's noticeably safer than smooth tarmac, especially on sloped driveways or rural access roads with gradients.

The texture also helps surface water dissipate rather than pooling, which reduces the risk of standing water and freezing in winter.