Everything You Need to Know About Tar & Chip for Long Farm Tracks
When it comes to maintaining long farm tracks, choosing the right surfacing material is essential for durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. Tar & chip is a popular choice for rural roads, including farm tracks, due to its affordability, long-lasting qualities, and versatile applications. At Rothwell Driveways & Patios, we have extensive experience in providing high-quality tar & chip installations throughout Rothwell, Northamptonshire, helping landowners and farmers create durable, functional tracks that stand up to the elements.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about using tar & chip for your farm track, including its benefits, installation process, and maintenance tips.
What is Tar & Chip?
Tar & chip, also known as chip seal or tar-and-chip paving, is a cost-effective surfacing option that combines hot tar (bitumen) with crushed stone or gravel. The process involves spraying a layer of hot tar onto an existing surface, followed by a layer of aggregate (typically small stones or gravel), which is pressed into the tar using a roller. Once the tar cools and hardens, the surface becomes a durable, rough-textured road that can handle heavy vehicles, traffic, and harsh weather conditions.
Why Choose Tar & Chip for Long Farm Tracks?
1. Cost-Effective Solution
Farm tracks often cover large areas, making them an expensive part of any agricultural property to maintain. Tar & chip provides an affordable option compared to other surfaces like tarmac or concrete. It offers excellent value for money while still providing durability and a solid foundation for vehicles and machinery.
- Lower installation costs: Tar & chip is much less expensive to install compared to other surfacing materials like asphalt or concrete.
- Affordable maintenance: If damage occurs, tar & chip roads are easy to repair without the need for extensive works, further reducing long-term costs.
2. Durability and Strength
Farm tracks are exposed to heavy usage, from farm machinery to livestock, all of which can put considerable strain on the surface. Tar & chip is highly durable and able to withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.
- Strength: The solid, bonded surface can bear the weight of large vehicles and agricultural machinery.
- Weather-resistant: Tar & chip roads are resistant to water erosion, which is particularly beneficial for rural locations with fluctuating weather patterns.
For farm owners in Rothwell, Northamptonshire, looking to ensure a long-lasting surface for their farm tracks, tar & chip is a reliable option that can handle frequent and heavy use.
3. Improved Drainage
Proper drainage is a critical factor in maintaining any farm track, especially one that may be subject to heavy rainfall. Tar & chip provides excellent water runoff, preventing pooling or flooding that could damage the track surface.
- Porous surface: Unlike solid concrete, the loose aggregate in tar & chip allows water to drain through the surface, reducing the risk of water damage.
- Reduced maintenance: Because water flows freely off the surface, there is less risk of potholes or cracks forming over time, saving you money on repairs.
The effective drainage capabilities of tar & chip make it an ideal option for farm tracks that need to remain functional and safe throughout the year.
4. Quick Installation
In many cases, farm owners require a quick solution to get their tracks back in service. Tar & chip installation is faster than some alternatives, meaning minimal disruption to your day-to-day farm activities.
- Efficient installation: The process is typically faster than tarmac or concrete, reducing the amount of time your track will be out of action.
- Minimal disruption: Tar & chip requires fewer steps than other paving materials, making it a great choice for farmers who need quick results with little downtime.
At Rothwell Driveways & Patios, we can install your tar & chip farm track quickly and professionally, allowing you to get back to work without unnecessary delays.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
While functionality is the primary concern for farm tracks, aesthetics also matter. Tar & chip roads provide a visually appealing surface with a rustic, natural appearance. The colour and texture of the aggregate can be customised to suit the look of your farm.
- Customisable options: You can choose from a variety of aggregate types and colours to create a surface that complements your property’s appearance.
- Natural look: The earthy tones of the gravel and stone blend seamlessly into rural landscapes, adding to the charm and character of your property.
For those in Rothwell, Northamptonshire, who want a farm track that works well and looks good, tar & chip is an attractive option.
How is Tar & Chip Installed?
The process of installing a tar & chip farm track is relatively simple and can be completed in a few steps:
- Preparation: The surface of the existing track is cleared of debris and any old, damaged materials. The area is then levelled to ensure proper water runoff.
- Application of tar: Hot tar is sprayed evenly onto the prepared surface to create a strong bond between the aggregate and the underlying layer.
- Laying the aggregate: The selected aggregate is spread evenly over the tar, and a roller is used to press the stones into the tar, ensuring they stick.
- Cooling and hardening: Once the tar has cooled, the road surface is fully set and ready for use.
This process typically takes a few days, depending on the size of the track, and can be done with minimal disruption.
Maintenance of Tar & Chip Farm Tracks
Although tar & chip is low maintenance, regular care can extend its lifespan and maintain its performance. Some maintenance tips include:
- Regular inspections: Check the track for any loose stones or signs of wear. Top up any areas that need attention.
- Resurfacing: Over time, the surface may require a light resurfacing with more tar and aggregate to maintain its strength.
- Cleaning: Ensure that debris such as leaves and branches are removed regularly to maintain proper drainage.
By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that your tar & chip farm track remains in good condition for many years to come.
Conclusion
Tar & chip is an excellent choice for farm tracks, offering an affordable, durable, and low-maintenance surface that stands up to the rigours of agricultural life. Its weather resistance, effective drainage, and quick installation make it an ideal option for those in Rothwell, Northamptonshire, looking for a reliable solution for their farm tracks.
At Rothwell Driveways & Patios, we specialise in installing high-quality tar & chip driveways and farm tracks that meet the needs of our clients. If you’re considering installing a new farm track or need repairs to your existing one, contact us today. Our team of professionals will ensure that your project is completed efficiently and to the highest standard.
Call us on: 01536 215 490
Click here to find out more about Rothwell Driveways & Patios
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your driveways.
