Affordable. Durable. Beautiful. Backed by Generations of Local Experience.

At TDS Asphalt, we specialize in Tar and Chip Paving Services that deliver the rustic charm of gravel with the strength of asphalt. As a family-owned paving company based in Massachusetts, we’ve built a reputation over decades for honest work, lasting results, and treating every client’s property like it’s our own. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your long gravel driveway or a business seeking a textured, durable lot, tar and chip might just be the perfect solution.

If you want something that’s budget-friendly, naturally beautiful, and holds up well in New England’s weather — tar and chip paving is a time-tested choice. And when it’s installed by TDS Asphalt, it’s done right the first time.

What Is Tar and Chip Paving?

Tar and chip paving, also known as chip seal paving, is a surface treatment that combines hot liquid asphalt (tar) with crushed stone (chip) to create a textured, slip-resistant surface. It offers a unique blend of visual appeal, cost savings, and resilience.

Unlike traditional blacktop, tar and chip gives off a more natural, stone-like appearance while requiring less maintenance than gravel and costing less than full asphalt paving. The result? A surface that looks great, performs well, and lasts for years without breaking the bank.

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Is Tar and Chip Right for You?

Tar and chip is ideal for:

• Long rural or private driveways

• Residential estates

• Farm roads

• Commercial parking areas with light to moderate traffic

• HOAs and private roads

If you’re dealing with dust from gravel or tired of the heat absorption from traditional asphalt, tar and chip offers an attractive middle ground. It’s aesthetic, economical, and tough — perfect for Massachusetts homeowners and businesses who want value and durability.

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Our Step-by-Step Tar and Chip Installation Process

At TDS Asphalt, we treat every project with a methodical, professional approach. Here’s how we ensure top-quality tar and chip paving:

1. Site Preparation

We begin by grading and leveling the area, ensuring proper drainage. A solid foundation is critical, so if the base is unstable, we’ll strengthen it first.

2. Application of Liquid Asphalt

Next, we spray a hot, sticky layer of liquid asphalt emulsion onto the surface using specialized trucks. This adhesive layer bonds the stone to the base.

3. Stone Chip Spreading

While the asphalt is still hot, we evenly spread clean, angular crushed stone chips over the surface. These chips come in a variety of tones and sizes depending on the look you want.

4. Rolling and Compaction

A large roller presses the stone chips into the hot tar, locking everything into place. This step is crucial for durability and for minimizing loose stone on the surface.

5. Curing and Clean-Up

After installation, the surface needs a short time to cure. We sweep up any excess loose stone and leave the site clean, level, and ready for use in a day or two.

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What Makes TDS Asphalt Different?

There’s no shortage of paving contractors in Massachusetts — but not all are created equal. Here’s what sets TDS Asphalt apart from the rest:

1. Craftsmanship Over Shortcuts

Tar and chip paving requires precision and skill. We don’t rush. Every project we take on gets our full attention, with no cut corners — just honest work and pride in our craft.

2. Family-Owned Integrity

As a family-run business, we take customer satisfaction personally. When you hire TDS, you’re not just another invoice — you’re a neighbor, and we treat your property accordingly.

3. Clear Communication

You’ll always know what’s happening, when it’s happening, and why. We explain everything in plain terms, keep you informed, and are always available for questions.

4. Local Knowledge

We know the soil, weather, and conditions across Massachusetts. That means better recommendations, better prep work, and better long-term outcomes.

5. Real Value

Our pricing is honest and competitive. No upsells, no surprises — just fair quotes for quality work. We’ll help you understand exactly what you’re paying for and why it matters.

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Maintenance Tips for Your Tar and Chip Surface

One of the biggest advantages of tar and chip is its low maintenance needs. But like any surface, a little care goes a long way.

Here’s how to get the most from your tar and chip paving:

• Avoid sharp turns or heavy braking on newly installed surfaces for the first few days

• Sweep away loose stones occasionally during the first few weeks

• Reseal every 7–10 years to maintain structure and appearance

• Promptly address any heavy oil spills that could break down the binder

• Keep an eye out for plow damage during winter and let us know if repairs are needed

When in doubt, give us a call — we’re always happy to offer guidance.

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Why Massachusetts Property Owners Love Tar and Chip

New England weather isn’t easy on pavement. The freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rains, and snowplows can do a number on many surfaces. Tar and chip holds its own — with grip in the winter, flexibility in the heat, and great drainage all year round.

Plus, its natural, rustic look blends beautifully with country homes, farmland, and wooded properties. It’s the kind of surface that looks like it belongs — not something that sticks out like a sore thumb.

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Let’s Build Something That Lasts

Whether you need a quarter-mile driveway paved or a commercial access road refreshed, TDS Asphalt is ready to help. We know you don’t want to worry about potholes, loose stones, or surprise costs. You just want a job done right — with care, transparency, and results that last.

Let’s talk about your project. We’ll walk you through your options, give you an honest quote, and make sure you feel confident every step of the way.

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Contact Us Today

Ready to upgrade your driveway or private road with a strong, attractive tar and chip surface?

Call TDS Asphalt and request a free on-site estimate through our contact form. We proudly serve homeowners and business owners across Massachusetts.

You’ve got a vision. We’ve got the experience to bring it to life.