Surface Dressing
Surface dressing seals and refreshes a tired road or drive by bonding a new layer of bitumen and chippings to it — extending its life for a fraction of the cost of replacement.
- Seals cracks against water ingress
- Restores skid resistance
- Ideal for long private roads
- Fast application, quick re-opening
How we do it
What it is
Surface dressing is a maintenance treatment, not a new road. A bitumen binder is sprayed onto an existing road or drive and chippings are rolled in. It seals the surface against water, stops it breaking up and restores grip.
When it's suitable
It works when the surface is worn, grey, porous or slippery but the structure underneath is still sound. It isn't a fix for deep ruts, sunken areas or broken-up sections. We repair those first or advise rebuilding.
Process and disruption
We patch potholes, sweep, spray and chip, then roll. A typical private road can reopen the same day at low speed. Loose chips are swept up after the surface has bedded in.
What affects the price
The main factors are length and width, how much pre-patching is needed, access, and the chip size and colour. It's usually far cheaper than resurfacing with new tarmac.
Questions
How long does surface dressing last?
On a sound base and in normal use, it typically lasts several years before it needs another dressing. We'll give you an honest estimate for your road.
Is it the same as tar and chip?
It uses the same method. 'Surface dressing' usually means treating an existing surface, while 'tar and chip' often refers to a new drive.
Surface Dressing near you
Ready for surface dressing?
Free site surveys across Somerset, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.