-Updated June 2023-
Are you looking to renovate your driveway in Dublin? Maybe you are looking at different material options and thinking, why are they so expensive? Luckily, there is an option that is durable, resilient, less expensive and looks great. Have you heard about a tar and chip driveway?
What Is a Tar and Chip Driveway?
One of the most significant advantages of using tar and chip for your driveway is that it is quick to set up. This can be especially important if you have a home business. During your driveway installation, you can’t receive clients. The longer this takes, the more money you are losing. Hence, having your driveway installed quickly is saving you money.
The installation process is generally uncomplicated as the material can be applied directly on the surface without any preparation or digging. The secret is in the hot tar sprayed on the surface which is then covered by gravel.
The result looks similar to a gravel driveway with one major difference: it’s more stable. The loose stones used on a gravel driveway stay in place because of the friction between the rocks. But apply too much pressure or water, and they will be washed away.
The bottom layer of gravel or chipping in tar and chip driveways is glued to hot bitumen. Hence, it will retain its shape for much longer. Additionally, because of the loose upper gravel layer, your driveway will look more natural.
The ease of installation is not the only reason why you should go for this paving material. The minimal upkeep required for this kind of driveway is another thing you should consider. You don’t have to spend a lot of time and money to keep a tar and chip driveway pristine.
Lastly, a tar and chip driveway is a good option if you are budget-conscious. Installing and maintaining it is easy on the pocket.
The Cost of Installing a Tar and Chip Driveway
The overall cost of any driveway is very hard to predict. It’s because the price varies depending on certain factors such as the type of material used. However, on average, tar and chip driveways cost around €25 per square metre.
One of the top factors that affect tar and chip driveway cost is size— basically, the longer or wider the drive you want to build, the higher your expense.
Some would argue that installing a tar and chip drive is slightly more expensive than other types. One reason for this is that several pieces of specialised equipment are needed to build this driveway.
Still, you will significantly spend less when you use tar and chip compared to other paving materials like tarmac and concrete.
Let’s take the case of a tarmac driveway which costs €50 per square metre on average. This means that you will save around €25 per square when you choose tar and chip over tarmac.
Aside from the size of the driveway, the amount of prep work needed can also affect the cost of a tar and chip drive. Again, you will spend more if the area requires a lot of work such as removing existing structures and plants.
How to Calculate the Cost of Tarmac Driveways in Ireland?
Avoid DIY, Hire a Tar and Chip Driveway Contractor
One of the biggest misconceptions about driveways in general, especially with gravel and tar and chip, is that anyone, even homeowners themselves, can install them. While installing a tar and chip is easy, it doesn’t mean you can or should do it yourself.
Installation still involves handling hot bitumen, properly managing and storing materials, and perfectly levelling your driveway. What often happens is that homeowners think they can do it themselves and end up unhappy with the result. Then you call professionals to fix it. In the end, the whole process costs you more money, time and unnecessary stress.
What you should do from the start is hire trusted contractors. With this decision, you ensure getting a pristine and durable driveway and, at the same time, avoid wasting time and money.
Looking for contractors in Dublin to install and maintain your tar and chip driveway? Simply give us a call at (01) 4851582 | 0852139591 or send us an email at info@newstyledriveways.com
