Do-it-yourself-driveway repair

Our "tar and chip" driveway is in need of some repairs after the cold, wet winter. There are several spots on our personal driveway that need attention. Then many more out on the community drive. About 6 months ago, we had a contractor fix some areas that were cracking, but we didn't feel that they did a real good job. So, like most things, it's probably better to do it yourself if you can!!!  

Here is a spot on our drive that the tar/gravel have worn away.

I took a bucket down to the Sanford ST Wooten ashphalt plant and picked up 5 gallons of the hot tar.  A worker took my bucket and brought it back to me full, so I don't really know what that process is like - other than it's very MESSY!

We didn't get around to the repair until Sunday, so we needed to heat the tar back up to 150 degrees.

Duane used a hot water heater element and some iron pipe filled with mineral oil to make a submersible heater.  (The "tar" is pretty liquid even when cool, so this step is probably not necessary on a warm day).

The area that we are to repair "grew" after we started removing the loose stones.

A quick sprinkle of mortar mix just to add some bonding.

Then pour the tar on top and throw stones in the wet tar.  It sets up quickly.

Tamp it down flat - add some "siftings" on top just to smooth it out.

And there you have it - a nice sturdy patch!