Five Reasons Tar & Chip Is a Strong Choice for Patios

When planning a new patio, homeowners often look for a surface that is durable, attractive, and able to cope with day-to-day outdoor use. Tar & Chip surfacing—also known as chip seal—is becoming increasingly popular in areas like Billingshurst thanks to its natural appearance and impressive performance. While many people associate Tar & Chip with driveways or rural roads, it also provides an excellent, long-lasting solution for patios.

Below are five key reasons why Tar & Chip is a strong and dependable choice for your outdoor space.

1. A Natural, Attractive Appearance

Tar & Chip combines hot tar with loose stone aggregates, creating a textured surface that blends seamlessly with gardens and outdoor settings. The stones come in various colours and sizes, allowing homeowners to select a style that complements their home’s exterior.
The result is a patio that offers a traditional, rustic look without appearing overly engineered, making it a popular option for properties around Billingshurst and the wider West Sussex area.

2. Excellent Grip and Slip Resistance

One of the biggest advantages of Tar & Chip is the natural grip provided by the stone surface. This makes it a suitable choice for patios, where safety underfoot is important—especially in wet weather. Its textured finish offers more traction than many smooth surfaces, reducing the likelihood of slips when the patio is damp.

3. Built to Withstand Daily Use

Patios need to cope with foot traffic, outdoor furniture, weather exposure, and general wear. Tar & Chip is robust by design, with the bonding of tar and stone creating a surface that is hard-wearing and stable.
This makes it an excellent option for homeowners seeking a patio that requires minimal maintenance while remaining reliable throughout the year.

4. Ideal for Larger or Uneven Areas

Because Tar & Chip is applied as a flexible surface, it can be laid over wider or uneven spaces more easily than many paving alternatives. This makes it particularly useful for gardens with slopes or irregular layouts.
Rather than needing extensive ground preparation, Tar & Chip adapts well to the existing landscape, helping to create a smooth and consistent patio area.

5. Customisable to Suit Your Outdoor Design

With a variety of natural stone shades available, Tar & Chip offers plenty of scope for personalising the appearance of your patio. Whether homeowners want a light, subtle aggregate or a deeper, more traditional tone, the surface can be tailored to match the overall style of the property and garden.

Conclusion

Tar & Chip is a practical, attractive, and long-lasting solution for patios, offering excellent grip, strong durability, and the flexibility to suit various outdoor layouts. Its natural look and performance make it a reliable choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their garden spaces.

If you are considering a new patio surface or would like professional advice, NS Driveways Billingshurst in Billingshurst, West Sussex is here to help. Contact us today to arrange a consultation with our experienced team.

Call us on: 01403 907 098
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