Tar & Chip Car Parks: The Tough Alternative to Asphalt

When it comes to surfacing car parks, many assume that asphalt is the only viable option. However, tar and chip—a method widely used for roads and agricultural settings—is rapidly gaining popularity in commercial and residential environments for its strength, cost-effectiveness, and traditional appearance.

At Huntingdon Driveways, we specialise in high-performance tar and chip surfacing for car parks throughout Huntingdon and the wider Cambridgeshire area. In this article, we take a closer look at why tar and chip is becoming a preferred alternative to asphalt for car park installations.

What Is Tar and Chip Surfacing?

Tar and chip, also known as surface dressing, involves applying hot bitumen to a prepared base and then layering it with loose aggregate. The aggregate is rolled into the bitumen to create a tough, textured surface that bonds as it cures.

This method creates a hard-wearing, slip-resistant surface that is ideal for car parks, private roads, driveways, and forecourts.

Key Advantages Over Asphalt

1. Superior Traction
The naturally rough finish of tar and chip provides excellent grip, making it ideal for both pedestrian areas and vehicle traffic. This added traction is particularly beneficial during wet or icy conditions, reducing the risk of skidding.

2. Lower Installation Costs
Compared to traditional asphalt, tar and chip surfacing is more cost-effective—especially for larger car park areas. It requires less heavy machinery and has a faster installation process, which means lower labour costs.

3. High Durability
Tar and chip surfaces are highly resistant to heavy traffic, weathering, and oil spills. When properly maintained, they can last for well over a decade, even in busy car park environments.

4. Aesthetic Appeal
Tar and chip offers a more rustic or natural appearance than the plain black finish of asphalt. This makes it a popular choice for rural settings, heritage properties, and car parks where appearance matters as much as performance.

5. Minimal Maintenance
Once installed, tar and chip car parks require very little upkeep. Occasional sweeping and the reapplication of surface dressing every few years can keep the surface in top condition for longer.

Where Tar and Chip Works Best

This surfacing option is ideal for:

• Commercial car parks where longevity and cost control are priorities
  
• Visitor and overflow car parks for hotels, parks, and event venues
  
• Rural businesses and estates seeking a more natural finish
  
• Private developments where visual appeal and durability go hand in hand
  

Whether you’re resurfacing an existing car park or planning a new one, tar and chip offers a balance of performance and affordability that few other materials can match.

Considerations and Suitability

While tar and chip is an excellent surfacing choice, it’s important to understand its characteristics:

• Not as smooth as asphalt – which may not suit all applications
  
• Loose stone initially present – typically settles after the first few weeks
  
• Best laid in dry, mild conditions – to ensure proper adhesion and finish
  

At Huntingdon Driveways, we provide full site assessments to determine whether tar and chip is the right fit for your project. We only use high-quality materials and follow best practices to ensure a durable, professional finish every time.

Conclusion

Tar and chip is a robust, cost-effective alternative to asphalt that offers durability, traction, and a visually appealing finish—making it ideal for car parks in both commercial and rural settings. If you’re looking for a practical and long-lasting surface without compromising on style, tar and chip could be the solution.

For expert advice and reliable tar and chip car park installation in Huntingdon and surrounding areas, contact Huntingdon Driveways today. Our team is ready to help you plan, prepare, and deliver a car park surface that performs for years to come.

Call us on: 01480 271 895
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