
Chip Seal Driveway
Durability. Beauty. Peace of Mind.
Offered by TDS Asphalt – Your Local Family-Owned Paving Experts
When it comes to choosing the right type of driveway surface for your home or business, chip seal driveways offer a beautiful, cost-effective, and long-lasting alternative to traditional asphalt or concrete. At TDS Asphalt, we specialize in chip seal driveway installation for homeowners and business owners across Massachusetts who want a high-quality product that stands the test of time.
As a family-owned and operated paving company, we believe in doing the job right the first time. No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just honest work, real communication, and strong results. If you’re looking for a reliable, attractive, and low-maintenance driveway option, chip seal might be the perfect solution — and we’d be honored to build it for you.
What is a Chip Seal Driveway?
A chip seal driveway, sometimes called a tar and chip driveway, combines liquid asphalt with crushed stone to create a textured, natural-looking surface. It provides excellent traction, resists wear and tear, and costs significantly less than hot mix asphalt or concrete.
Unlike plain blacktop, chip seal gives a more rustic, custom look — and because we can use various colored stones, you get a surface that complements your property’s aesthetic. Best of all, it’s a durable paving solution ideal for New England’s freeze-thaw climate.
Why Choose TDS Asphalt for Your Chip Seal Driveway?
When you choose TDS Asphalt, you’re not just getting a contractor — you’re getting a partner who cares about your property like it’s our own. Here’s what sets us apart:
1. Generations of Experience
We’ve been paving Massachusetts driveways for over 30 years. Our crew knows the soil, the seasons, and the specific needs of chip seal in this climate.
2. Quality Craftsmanship
Every chip seal driveway we install is carefully planned, prepped, and finished with precision. We don’t rush through jobs or settle for “good enough.” If something’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.
3. Clear, Honest Communication
From the initial estimate to the final walkthrough, you’ll know what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what to expect next. We keep you in the loop every step of the way.
4. Respect for Your Property
We treat your home or business with care — maintaining clean work areas, protecting surrounding landscaping, and leaving the site looking better than we found it.
5. A Team You Can Trust
We’re local. We’re family. We show up when we say we will, and we stand behind every driveway we build.
Our Chip Seal Installation Process
We believe you deserve to know what’s going on from start to finish. Here’s how our chip seal driveway installation process works:
Step 1: Site Preparation
We start by grading the surface and compacting the sub-base to create a solid foundation. If needed, we’ll remove old pavement and debris.
Step 2: Application of Liquid Asphalt
We apply a hot layer of liquid asphalt evenly across the prepared base. This acts as the binder that holds the stone layer in place.
Step 3: Stone Application
While the asphalt is still hot, we immediately spread a layer of crushed stone (chips) over the surface. You can even choose the stone color that suits your property’s style.
Step 4: Rolling and Compaction
We use heavy rollers to press the stones into the asphalt, ensuring a uniform, tight bond. This creates a sturdy surface and reduces the risk of loose stones.
Step 5: Cleanup and Final Walkthrough
Once everything’s set, we clean the area and walk the project with you to ensure satisfaction. We don’t leave until you’re happy.
Benefits of a Chip Seal Driveway
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Affordable: Costs less than hot mix asphalt or concrete
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Durable: Withstands Massachusetts’ weather, especially freeze-thaw cycles
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Low Maintenance: Less cracking and minimal upkeep
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Great Traction: Ideal for driveways with slopes or curves
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Rustic Look: A more natural aesthetic that blends beautifully into landscapes
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Fast Installation: Most jobs are completed within 1–2 days
Chip Seal Driveways for Homes and Businesses
At TDS Asphalt, we serve a wide range of clients across Massachusetts — from residential driveways to private roads, commercial lots, and estate properties. Whether you’re a homeowner who wants an elegant entrance or a business owner looking for a cost-effective way to resurface your lot, we have the experience and equipment to deliver top-tier results.
Long-Term Care & Maintenance Tips
A chip seal driveway requires less maintenance than many other paving options, but here are a few easy tips to help it last:
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Avoid turning wheels sharply in place, especially in the first few weeks
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Sweep loose stones back into place if they shift after installation
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Seal coat not required, but optional re-chipping every 7–10 years can refresh the surface
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Keep it clean by removing debris, snow, or organic material that could trap moisture
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Watch the edges and avoid heavy loads right at the border to reduce wear
Our Promise to You
We know that hiring a paving contractor is a big decision. You want to be confident that your money is well spent — and your driveway will stand the test of time. That’s why at TDS Asphalt, we never cut corners. We show up, we listen, and we build with care.
From your first phone call to your last step across the finished driveway, you’ll feel the difference of working with a company that treats every job like it’s in our own backyard — because, in many cases, it is.
Let’s Build Something That Lasts
If you’re ready for a driveway that’s beautiful, dependable, and built to last, we’d love to help. Whether you’re still weighing your options or already know chip seal is right for you, give us a call or request a free estimate. We’ll answer your questions, assess your property, and give you honest advice — no pressure, no pushy sales.
Contact TDS Asphalt today and let’s talk about how we can create a driveway you’ll be proud of for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a chip seal driveway last?
A chip seal driveway typically lasts 7–10 years or longer with proper care. Many homeowners choose to refresh it with a new layer of stone at that point to extend its life.
Is chip seal cheaper than asphalt?
Yes. Chip seal is usually 30–40% less expensive than hot mix asphalt, making it a budget-friendly choice without sacrificing durability.
Can I choose the color of the stone?
Absolutely. We offer several stone options, and we’ll help you pick one that complements your home’s style and landscaping.
Will the stones come loose over time?
A small number of loose stones are normal after installation, but our rolling and compaction process keeps this to a minimum. We recommend sweeping any stray chips back into place.
Is chip seal good for New England winters?
Yes. Chip seal performs well in Massachusetts thanks to its flexibility, traction, and ability to resist cracking during freeze-thaw cycles.