8 Best Use Cases for Tar & Chip in Agricultural and Farm Roads

Introduction

Farm roads and rural tracks face unique challenges—constant heavy use, unpredictable British weather, and the need for practical, long-lasting surfaces that don’t break the bank. For agricultural properties in Soham and across Cambridgeshire, one solution stands out for its affordability and durability: tar and chip surfacing.

At Soham Driveways, we’ve worked with farmers, estate owners, and rural landholders to deliver high-performance tar and chip surfacing tailored specifically to agricultural settings. In this article, we explore the eight best use cases for tar and chip on farms—helping you decide where this tried-and-tested method can offer the greatest value and functionality on your land.

Why Tar & Chip Works in Agriculture

Tar and chip, also known as surface dressing, involves applying a hot bitumen layer followed by a coating of stone chippings. It’s cost-effective, quick to install, and incredibly hard-wearing—perfect for large areas subjected to frequent heavy use.

Its textured, non-slip finish improves traction for vehicles and livestock alike, and it blends naturally into rural surroundings—making it both practical and visually appropriate for farms across the UK.

1. Main Farm Access Roads

These are the most used routes on any farm, connecting public roads to barns, sheds, and central operations. Tar and chip provides a strong, weather-resistant surface that can handle regular use by tractors, delivery vehicles, and 4x4s without degrading quickly.

• Reduces dust and mud in dry or wet weather
  
• Offers excellent grip for large vehicles
  
• Less expensive than full tarmac for long stretches
  

2. Field Trackways

Getting in and out of fields during planting, harvesting, or livestock checks is vital year-round. Tar and chip helps maintain access even after heavy rain, reducing the chances of vehicles becoming bogged down or causing ruts in the soil.

• Ideal for year-round accessibility
  
• Prevents wear and erosion on soil tracks
  
• Low-maintenance and long-lasting
  

3. Livestock Movement Areas

Tar and chip provides a firm, slip-resistant surface for moving livestock between pens, sheds, or grazing areas. The texture helps reduce slipping—especially important in wet or icy conditions—and creates a hygienic, easy-to-clean surface.

• Safer movement for cattle, sheep, and horses
  
• Drains well to avoid standing water
  
• Can be pressure-washed for cleanliness
  

4. Grain Store and Machinery Yard Surrounds

The area around grain stores and machinery sheds sees frequent, heavy-duty use. Forklifts, trailers, and other equipment need a tough surface that resists oil stains, potholes, and water pooling. Tar and chip offers excellent load-bearing performance without the cost of concrete.

• Withstands heavy equipment and machinery
  
• Drains efficiently to protect nearby buildings
  
• Customisable stone finish to match your setting
  

5. Farmhouse Driveways

Farmhouses often combine residential and working farm elements, and tar and chip is an ideal surface that suits both. It provides a tidy, rural aesthetic while standing up to everyday vehicle traffic—perfect for family cars and work vans alike.

• Adds kerb appeal with a rustic, natural look
  
• More affordable than resin or paving
  
• Durable and easy to maintain
  

6. Estate or Perimeter Tracks

Long perimeter routes around farmland or private estates are ideal candidates for tar and chip. These tracks are essential for security checks, boundary access, or recreational use and need to remain accessible in all seasons.

• Suitable for long-distance private routes
  
• Blends with natural landscapes
  
• Low visual impact but high performance
  

7. Paddocks and Equestrian Paths

Equestrian areas require safe, non-slip surfaces for both horses and handlers. Tar and chip offers enough grip to support hooves and boots without becoming harsh or uneven. It’s especially effective when used on access paths or around stables.

• Safe for horses and foot traffic
  
• Dries quickly and resists damage from hooves
  
• Minimises dust and mud near buildings
  

8. Agricultural Parking Areas

From visitor parking to overflow zones for staff or seasonal workers, tar and chip makes a highly cost-effective solution for creating hardstanding areas quickly and with minimal disruption.

• Quick to install over prepared ground
  
• Prevents muddy build-up during wet weather
  
• Keeps your site organised and functional
  

Conclusion

Tar and chip is a smart investment for any agricultural property needing reliable, cost-effective surfacing across multiple areas. Whether it’s ensuring year-round access to fields or improving safety around livestock zones, this versatile method continues to prove its worth across Soham and Cambridgeshire.

At Soham Driveways, we bring years of experience in rural surfacing, offering tailored advice and installations to suit the specific needs of each site. If you’re looking to upgrade your farm roads or improve your property’s access points, get in touch with us today and find out how tar and chip can work for your land.

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