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Tar and Chip Driveways: A Durable, Affordable Alternative for Tennessee Homeowners

If you’re a homeowner in the Nashville or Hendersonville area looking for a long-lasting, budget-friendly driveway option with a natural, rustic charm, tar and chip paving might be the perfect solution.

Also known as chip seal, this time-tested method combines hot liquid asphalt with loose stone chips to create a textured, attractive surface that offers excellent durability without the high cost of traditional asphalt or concrete.

At R&R Paving, we specialize in residential tar and chip driveways and have helped countless Middle Tennessee homeowners get a driveway that performs—and looks—beautiful for years to come.


What Is Tar and Chip Paving?

The process starts by applying a hot asphalt emulsion to a properly prepared gravel base. Then, crushed stone chips are evenly spread across the surface and rolled into the asphalt for a strong, interlocking finish.

The result is a textured, skid-resistant surface that blends beautifully with country homes, farms, cabins, and even modern builds that want something different from traditional blacktop.


Benefits of Tar and Chip for Your Home

1. Affordable Alternative to Asphalt
Tar and chip is generally 30–50% less expensive than traditional asphalt paving, making it an excellent option for homeowners working with a budget.

2. Low Maintenance
Unlike asphalt, tar and chip doesn’t require regular sealing. It’s naturally resistant to weather, fading, and surface cracking, and minor wear blends in easily.

3. Great Traction in All Weather
The rough, textured finish offers better grip during rain and snow—ideal for sloped driveways or properties with long, winding entries.

4. Beautiful, Natural Appearance
Choose from a variety of stone chip colors to match your home’s aesthetic. The result is a warm, earthy finish that enhances curb appeal and blends well with natural surroundings.

5. Long-Lasting Performance
With proper installation and light maintenance, a tar and chip driveway can last up to 10 years or more, depending on usage and weather.


Is It Right for Your Property?

Tar and chip driveways are ideal for:

  • Rural and country homes

  • Long or private driveways

  • Homeowners who prefer a more natural look

  • Properties where cost-effective durability is a priority

If you’re unsure whether it’s a good fit for your home, our experienced crew can evaluate your property and recommend the best solution based on soil conditions, layout, and usage.


Why Homeowners Trust R&R Paving

We’ve been paving driveways across Hendersonville, Nashville, and surrounding areas since 1989. Our team uses only the highest quality asphalt and stone materials, ensuring your tar and chip driveway holds up against Middle Tennessee’s changing weather and terrain.

We’ll help you:

  • Choose your stone color

  • Understand the prep and installation process

  • Get a fast, honest estimate

  • Enjoy a long-lasting driveway that adds beauty and function to your property


Ready for a Driveway That Looks Great and Won’t Break the Bank?

Contact R&R Paving today at (615) 824-6590