What Is Chip Seal?
Chip seal (also called tar and chip) is a layer of liquid asphalt binder sprayed on a prepared base, with crushed stone spread over it and rolled in. The result is a sealed, textured surface with a natural stone look. It suits long country driveways, private roads, farm lanes and properties where a traditional blacktop finish isn’t the look you want.
Egan Paving installs chip seal driveways and lanes across Albany, Schenectady, Saratoga and the Capital Region, and can also apply chip seal over a sound existing surface.
Why Choose Chip Seal
Chip seal is often less expensive per square foot than hot-mix asphalt, which makes it a good fit for long driveways. The textured stone surface offers good traction, and the binder seals out water. Many homeowners pick it simply because they like the look.
Is It Right for You?
Chip seal is not ideal for every driveway. Loose stone can be a nuisance at first, it isn’t as smooth for basketball, bikes or skateboards, and it is harder to plow with a blade set low. For a smooth surface, a traditional asphalt driveway may be the better choice. Compare them in our guide: chip seal vs. sealcoating in Albany.