Many asphalt companies have experience with tar and chip paving, but not all. The process is unique enough—and not incredibly common enough—that you may have to look around for a tar and chip specialist. However, speaking with a driveway company is a great place to start, especially if they have experience with multiple materials.
Compared to a 10x20 concrete driveway costing between $800 and $3,000, a resin bound driveway of the same size costing $3,900 to $4,000 is the more expensive option. However, the cost still makes resin a cheaper option compared to a 10x20 paver driveway costing an average of $12,000.
Yes, pea gravel is good for driveways as long as your driveway isn’t built on a hill or any type of slope where it can slide. It’ll settle on a flat surface and create a suitable driveway over time, though some spreading initially will take place. If you're wondering how to make a gravel driveway in a high-rainfall area, using pea gravel could help you to cut down on costs needed for extra drainage solutions.
There’s no single best asphalt grade—it all comes down to where and how it’s used. Highways and heavy-traffic roads need something tough, like polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) or Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). Local roads and parking lots rely on the Performance Graded (PG) system, chosen based on climate. A PG 64-28 mix, for example, handles a broad temperature range while simpler, more cost-effective mixes are typically enough for residential driveways. The best grade of asphalt depends on traffic, weather, and your budget, which is why a professional’s input is always a smart move before making a decision.
While blacktop is a type of asphalt, the terms should not be used interchangeably, as not all asphalt qualifies as blacktop. The primary differences are in their composition, production process, and ideal applications. Blacktop contains more stone than other types of asphalt and is heated to a higher temperature during production—300°F or more—while hot-mix asphalt is heated to between 275°F and 300°F. The ratio of bitumen (a tar-like crude oil) is a key differentiator, though sources vary: some state blacktop has less bitumen, making it less durable, while others claim it has a higher ratio. Due to these differences, asphalt is generally more durable and better for high-traffic areas like highways and streets, while blacktop is more suitable for playgrounds and residential driveways. For a driveway project, it is best to consult a professional to determine the most appropriate material.
The Benkelman, NE homeowners’ guide to paving services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Get proactive with marketing for your paving contractor business. Use these paving marketing ideas (ranked by budget and experience level) to grow your business, get more leads, and earn more money.
