5 Reasons Commercial Properties Prefer Tar & Chip Surfaces

When it comes to surfacing solutions for commercial properties, durability, appearance, and practicality are all key considerations. One surface that successfully combines these benefits is tar and chip — also known as chip seal. At NS Driveways Oxted in Oxted, Surrey, we’ve seen growing demand for tar and chip surfaces among business owners, facility managers, and developers who need reliable, long-lasting results that enhance both performance and presentation.

What Is a Tar & Chip Surface?

A tar and chip surface is created by applying a layer of hot liquid bitumen (tar) followed by a coating of loose stone chippings. Once rolled and compacted, the chippings bond with the bitumen, forming a textured, hard-wearing surface. The result is a finish that offers strength and traction while maintaining an attractive, natural look.

It’s an ideal choice for commercial settings such as car parks, access roads, forecourts, and industrial yards — all areas that require durability and easy maintenance.

Below are five key reasons why tar and chip surfaces are a preferred choice for many commercial properties across Surrey.

1. Exceptional Durability for High-Traffic Areas

Commercial driveways and access routes often experience heavier use than residential ones. Delivery vehicles, staff cars, and equipment traffic can quickly wear down lesser materials. Tar and chip surfaces are designed to withstand these demands.

The combination of bitumen and natural stone creates a robust layer that resists cracking, potholing, and surface wear. Even under constant vehicle use, the surface remains stable and reliable. This makes it ideal for busy commercial environments that need long-lasting strength without frequent resurfacing.

At NS Driveways Oxted, we ensure every tar and chip installation is constructed on a properly prepared base, maximising load-bearing capacity and longevity.

2. Low Maintenance Requirements

Businesses value solutions that minimise disruption and maintenance costs. One of the major advantages of tar and chip surfacing is its minimal upkeep. The textured surface helps hide dirt and minor wear, while its structure naturally sheds water and debris.

Unlike other surfacing options, tar and chip does not require frequent sealing or cleaning to maintain its performance. Occasional sweeping and simple upkeep are usually enough to preserve its appearance and functionality.

For commercial properties, this means less downtime, lower maintenance demands, and more time focused on operations — all while maintaining a professional-looking exterior.

3. Attractive, Professional Appearance

First impressions matter, especially for businesses where customers or clients visit on-site. Tar and chip surfaces offer a refined, natural finish that enhances a property’s visual appeal without appearing overly industrial.

The use of decorative stone chippings allows for a range of aesthetic options. From lighter aggregates that complement modern architecture to darker tones suited to traditional surroundings, tar and chip surfaces can be tailored to suit any property’s style.

This blend of practicality and visual quality makes it particularly suitable for:

• Office parks and corporate headquarters
  
• Retail complexes and showrooms
  
• Hotels, pubs, and hospitality venues
  
• Agricultural and rural business entrances
  

At NS Driveways Oxted, we help commercial clients choose the right stone blend to achieve both performance and kerb appeal.

4. Excellent Grip and Safety Performance

Safety is a major priority for any commercial property, and tar and chip surfaces provide excellent traction in all weather conditions. The textured finish created by the stone chippings enhances grip, reducing the likelihood of vehicles skidding or pedestrians slipping — even in wet or icy conditions.

This makes tar and chip particularly well-suited for car parks, loading bays, and sloped driveways where traction is essential. The surface also reflects less glare in bright sunlight compared with smooth asphalt, improving visibility for drivers and pedestrians.

In addition, the natural drainage qualities of the material help prevent standing water, further improving surface safety throughout the year.

5. Versatility and Cost-Effective Performance

Tar and chip is one of the most adaptable surfacing solutions available, making it suitable for a wide variety of commercial uses. It can be installed over existing surfaces such as concrete or old tarmac (when in good condition) or used for entirely new constructions.

Its durability, low maintenance needs, and long service life make it a cost-effective choice in the long term — particularly for larger commercial properties that require extensive surfacing.

The material’s flexibility also makes it suitable for both urban and rural settings, providing a balance between practical performance and aesthetic value. Whether used for a small business forecourt or a large industrial access road, tar and chip delivers reliable, professional results.

Why Businesses in Oxted Choose Tar & Chip 

At NS Driveways Oxted, we specialise in providing professional tar and chip surfacing solutions tailored to the specific needs of commercial clients across Oxted and the surrounding Surrey area. Our team combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the local environment, ensuring every installation is both visually appealing and built to last.

We take pride in delivering surfaces that:

• Enhance the professional image of your property
  
• Withstand heavy traffic and adverse weather
  
• Offer long-term reliability with minimal upkeep
  

By choosing tar and chip surfacing, businesses gain a durable, stylish, and cost-effective solution that enhances both safety and appearance — a smart investment for any commercial property.

Conclusion

For commercial properties seeking a balance of strength, style, and practicality, tar and chip surfaces provide an excellent solution. Their durability, low maintenance, and attractive finish make them ideal for a wide range of business environments. Whether you’re resurfacing a forecourt, upgrading an access road, or installing a new car park, NS Driveways Oxted offers professional tar and chip installations in Oxted that deliver lasting performance and a polished, professional look.

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