Key Takeaways
| Main Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot | $2 – $5 |
| Average Cost For 2-Car Driveway | $700 – $2,900 |
| Cost Comparison | Cheaper than asphalt and concrete, but more expensive than gravel |
| Pros and Cons | Self-healing, low maintenance but shorter lifespan and weather susceptible |
Cost Per Square Foot Installed
The cost for installing a chip seal or tar and chip driveway ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot. The price varies based on factors such as the size of the area, the type of stone used, and the geographical location.
Average Cost For 2-Car Driveway
For a standard 2-car driveway, which typically measures 20’x20’, the average cost ranges from $700 to $2,900.
Tar And Chip Driveway Cost
| Size | Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10’x20’ Driveway (1-car) | 200 | $350 – $1,000 |
| 12’x24’ Driveway (1-car) | 288 | $500 – $1,450 |
| 20’x20’ Driveway (2-car) | 400 | $700 – $2,000 |
| 24’x24’ Driveway (2-car) | 576 | $1,000 – $2,900 |
| 24’x36’ Driveway (3-car) | 864 | $1,500 – $4,300 |
| 18’x10’ Parking Space | 180 | $300 – $900 |
| 10-Car Parking Lot | 3,000 | $5,250 – $15,000 |
| 12’x500′ Private Road | 6,000 | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| 1-Mile Public Road (2-lane) | 158,400 | $25,000 – $42,000 |
Tar And Chip Driveway Cost Calculator
Chip Seal Cost Per Square Foot
Calculating the cost of a chip seal driveway involves taking into account the square footage and multiplying it by the cost per square foot.
Average Chip Seal Driveway Cost
| Metric | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $1,800 |
| Minimum Cost | $500 |
| Maximum Cost | $5,000 |
| Average Range | $700 to $2,900 |
Chip Seal Road Cost Per Mile
| Metric | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Linear Foot | $20 – $60 |
| Per Mile (1-lane) | $12,000 – $25,000 |
| Per Mile (2-lane) | $25,000 – $42,000 |
Average Price Of A Macadam Parking Lot
While specific numbers for macadam parking lots can vary, the cost often falls within the range of $5,250 to $15,000 for a 10-car parking lot.
Single vs. Double Chip Seal Driveway Cost
| Install Type | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Single Chip Seal | $2 – $3 |
| Double Chip Seal | $3 – $5 |
Single Chip Seal
A single chip seal layer involves one application of asphalt emulsion followed by one layer of stone aggregate. It’s more affordable but has a shorter lifespan and less durability.
Double Chip Seal
A double chip seal involves two layers of asphalt emulsion and two layers of stone aggregate. This option provides more durability and a longer lifespan but is more expensive.
High-Performance / Cape Seal
High-performance or cape seals add extra layers, making for a more robust and resilient surface. They are typically more costly but offer improved longevity and performance.
Macadam Driveway Cost Factors
Site Prep And Grading
The cost of preparing the site and grading the land significantly impacts the overall expense. Proper prep ensures a stable and even foundation.
Stone Type And Color
The choice of stone affects the cost. Some types of stone might be more expensive due to their availability and aesthetic appeal.
Weather And Climate
Weather and climate conditions in your area can influence costs. For example, areas with extreme weather might require more durable materials, escalating the price.
Location And Accessibility
Remote or hard-to-reach locations may experience higher costs due to the difficulty of transporting materials and machinery.
Slope And Pitch For Oil And Stone Driveways
Driveways with significant slopes may need additional work to ensure proper drainage and stability, potentially raising costs.
Driveway Permit Fees & Regulations
Local regulations and permit fees also factor into the overall cost. It’s essential to check local requirements before starting the project.
Land Survey For New Driveways
In some cases, a land survey may be necessary to outline the exact dimensions and ensure compliance with local zoning laws.
Chip Seal vs. Asphalt vs. Gravel Driveway Cost
| Type | Cost per Square Foot | Maintenance | Lifespan (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chip Seal (Tar and Chip) | $2 – $5 | Low maintenance, self-healing cracks | 7 – 10 |
| Asphalt | $3 – $7 | Requires sealing every 3 years | 15 – 30 |
| Concrete | $4 – $8 | Low maintenance but costly to repair | 30 – 40 |
| Gravel | $1 – $3 | Easy to repair but frequent upkeep | Up to 100 |
| Pavers | $10 – $30 | Easy to replace individual pavers | 25 – 75 |
Installing Chip And Seal Over Other Driveway Types
Chip And Seal Over Concrete
Chip and seal can be applied over concrete, offering a cost-effective upgrade that enhances the appearance and durability.
Tar And Chip Over Asphalt Driveway
Applying tar and chip over an existing asphalt driveway is a common method to extend its life without the high costs of replacing the asphalt.
Chip Seal Over Gravel
While it’s possible to apply chip seal over gravel, proper preparation is essential to ensure adherence and longevity.
Chip Seal Over Dirt
Dirt driveways can also be upgraded with chip seal, though this might require additional site prep to ensure a smooth and stable base.
Chip And Seal Driveway Pros And Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheaper than asphalt or concrete | Shorter lifespan than asphalt or concrete |
| Better traction when wet or snow-covered | Susceptible to weather damage |
| Anti-glare surface in wet weather | Snow removal is difficult and can damage the surface |
| Variety of colors and stone types available | Surface too rough for some activities, such as biking or roller-skating |
| Cooler surface temperature | Difficult to find experienced installers |
| Low maintenance with no sealing required | |
| Self-healing: small cracks seal themselves in warm weather |
What Is Chip Seal Paving?
Chip seal paving, also known as tar and chip, combines one or more layers of asphalt with layers of fine aggregate. This method provides a durable and cost-effective surfacing option.
How Long Does A Tar And Chip Driveway Last?
A tar and chip driveway typically lasts between 7 and 10 years, depending on factors such as climate, usage, and maintenance.
What Colors Do Chip Seal Driveways Come In?
Chip seal driveways come in a variety of colors, influenced by the type of stone used. Popular choices include:
Blue Chip Driveway
Utilizes blue-toned stones to create a unique and appealing surface.
Red Chips For Driveway
Red stones add a striking and distinctive look to the driveway.
What Is The Difference Between Asphalt And Chip And Seal?
Asphalt driveways involve a continuous layer of asphalt, while chip and seal use multiple layers of asphalt and aggregate to create a textured surface. Chip and seal is generally cheaper and offers different aesthetic options but might have a shorter lifespan.
Can You Seal Coat A Gravel Driveway?
Yes, it is possible to apply a chip seal over a gravel driveway, provided the gravel base is properly prepared.
Where Do You Buy Tar?
Tar and other materials for chip sealing can be sourced from construction material suppliers, asphalt companies, and some hardware stores.
How Much Does An Oil And Stone Driveway Cost?
An oil and stone driveway typically costs between $2 to $5 per square foot, similar to other chip seal surfaces.
DIY Chip And Seal Driveway
Installing a chip seal driveway yourself can reduce costs, but it requires specialized equipment and materials. For best results, consider hiring professionals unless you have experience and the right tools.
Hiring Tar And Chip Driveway Contractors
Questions To Ask
When seeking a contractor for a tar and chip driveway, consider asking the following questions:
- Can you provide references or examples of previous work?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What is the estimated timeline for completion?
- What is included in the quote?
- How do you handle unexpected issues or changes?
By carefully considering the factors associated with chip seal driveways, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.
