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You need a surface you can count on. Not one that develops potholes after the first hard winter or starts cracking before you’ve even finished paying for it.
Properly installed asphalt handles heavy traffic, drains water where it needs to go, and stands up to the temperature swings Tennessee throws at it. That means fewer repairs, less maintenance headaches, and a surface that actually looks good years down the road.
Whether you’re paving a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, the result should be the same: a smooth, durable surface that does its job without constant babysitting. That’s what happens when the work is done right the first time.
Tristar Paving LLC is a veteran-owned asphalt paving company based in Wilson County, serving La Vergne and the greater Nashville area. With over 50 years of combined experience, we’ve paved everything from residential driveways to commercial parking lots across Middle Tennessee.
La Vergne is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, and that growth means more driveways, more parking lots, and more roads that need to be done right. We understand the local conditions—the rain, the humidity, the soil, the drainage challenges—and know how to build surfaces that hold up here.
We handle both residential and commercial paving, offering asphalt paving, driveway installation, parking lot construction, and tar & chip paving. Every project gets the same attention to detail, whether it’s a homeowner looking to improve curb appeal or a business owner needing a functional, professional parking area.
The process starts with site preparation. The area gets cleared, graded for proper drainage, and any underlying issues get addressed before a single load of asphalt arrives. A strong foundation matters—it’s what keeps your driveway or parking lot from settling, cracking, or developing drainage problems later.
Once the base is compacted and ready, the asphalt mixture gets laid using specialized equipment. The material is spread evenly, then compacted to the right density. Proper compaction is what gives asphalt its strength and durability.
After paving, the surface needs time to cure. For asphalt, that’s typically 24 to 48 hours before you can drive on it. Once cured, you’ve got a surface that’s ready to handle daily traffic.
For tar and chip paving, the process is a bit different. A layer of hot liquid asphalt gets sprayed over a prepared base, followed by a layer of stone chips that are rolled into the surface. The result is a textured, durable finish that works great for long driveways and private roads—and costs less than traditional asphalt.
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We handle residential and commercial projects across La Vergne. For homeowners, that means driveway paving, driveway extensions, RV pads, and tar & chip installations. For businesses, it’s parking lot construction, resurfacing, striping, and ongoing maintenance.
La Vergne’s growing population—over 35,000 people and climbing—means more commercial properties, more residential developments, and more infrastructure that needs to be built or maintained. Asphalt is the go-to material because it’s durable, cost-effective, and handles the area’s weather patterns better than most alternatives.
Tennessee’s frequent rain and humidity make proper drainage critical. A poorly graded surface will pool water, which seeps into cracks, freezes in winter, and leads to expensive repairs. We grade every surface to ensure water flows away from buildings and off the pavement.
For properties looking for a more rustic look or a budget-friendly option, tar and chip paving offers excellent traction, especially during wet conditions—a real advantage during Tennessee’s rainy seasons. It requires less maintenance than traditional asphalt and can last 7 to 10 years before needing another layer.
With proper maintenance, an asphalt driveway in La Vergne can last 15 to 25 years or more. The lifespan depends on the quality of installation, the thickness of the asphalt, and how well it’s maintained over time.
Tennessee’s weather—hot summers, occasional freezing winters, and frequent rain—puts stress on asphalt surfaces. Sealcoating every three to five years protects the surface from water damage, UV rays, and wear from traffic. Filling cracks as soon as they appear prevents water from seeping underneath and causing bigger problems.
If you skip maintenance, you’ll see deterioration much faster. Small cracks turn into potholes, water damage spreads, and eventually you’re looking at a full replacement instead of simple repairs. Taking care of your driveway from the start saves money in the long run.
Asphalt paving creates a smooth, solid surface by laying hot asphalt mix and compacting it with heavy rollers. Tar and chip paving sprays hot liquid asphalt over a base, then applies a layer of stone chips that get rolled into the surface for a textured finish.
Asphalt costs more upfront but typically lasts longer—20 to 25 years with proper care. It’s the better choice for high-traffic areas like commercial parking lots or driveways that see heavy use. Tar and chip costs less, requires little maintenance, and lasts 7 to 10 years before needing another layer.
Tar and chip also provides better traction during wet conditions, which is helpful during Tennessee’s rainy seasons. It works well for long residential driveways, farm lanes, and private roads where you want durability without the higher cost of traditional asphalt. The stone surface also hides stains and minor imperfections better than smooth blacktop.
Driveway paving costs in the Nashville area typically range from $1,700 to $1,900 for a standard 600-square-foot driveway, though prices vary based on site conditions, material choices, and project complexity. Asphalt generally costs $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot, while tar and chip runs $2 to $5 per square foot.
Several factors affect the final price. Site preparation—clearing, grading, and addressing drainage—can add to the cost if your property has trees, slopes, or poor drainage. The thickness of the asphalt matters too; a thicker surface costs more but lasts longer and handles heavier vehicles better.
Larger projects, like extending a driveway or adding an RV pad, will cost more based on square footage. The best way to know what your project will cost is to get an on-site estimate. We can assess your property, discuss your needs, and give you an accurate price based on the actual work required.
For asphalt paving, you typically need to wait 24 to 48 hours before driving on the surface. The asphalt needs time to cool and cure properly. Driving on it too soon can leave tire marks, create indentations, or damage the surface before it’s fully set.
Weather plays a role in curing time. Hot, dry conditions help asphalt cure faster, while cooler or humid weather can extend the wait. We’ll give you specific guidance based on the conditions during your installation.
For tar and chip paving, the surface is usually ready to use within 24 hours as well, though you may notice some loose stones for the first few days. Sweeping away loose chips is normal. Avoid making sharp turns or heavy braking during the first week to let the surface fully settle.
In most cases, yes—you’ll need a permit from local building authorities before paving a driveway in La Vergne. Permits ensure the work meets local codes for drainage, setbacks, and other requirements. We’re familiar with the permit process and can often handle it on your behalf.
Driveway paving is considered a major construction project, and doing it without proper permits can lead to fines or problems when you try to sell your property. Permits also protect you by ensuring the work is inspected and meets safety standards.
If you’re replacing an existing driveway with the same footprint, the permit process is usually straightforward. If you’re expanding your driveway, changing the drainage, or paving a new area, additional approvals may be required. We know what’s needed for your specific project and can walk you through the requirements.
Asphalt driveways in Tennessee need regular sealcoating every three to five years to protect against water damage, UV exposure, and general wear. Sealcoating creates a protective barrier that extends the life of your driveway and keeps it looking fresh.
You should also fill cracks as soon as they appear. Tennessee’s weather—especially freeze-thaw cycles in winter—causes small cracks to expand. Water seeps in, freezes, and pushes the asphalt apart, creating bigger cracks and eventually potholes. Catching cracks early prevents expensive repairs later.
Basic upkeep includes sweeping away debris, cleaning oil stains, and avoiding heavy vehicles or sharp turns that can damage the surface. If you notice drainage problems, standing water, or areas that are sinking, address them quickly. Proper maintenance keeps your driveway functional and attractive for 20 years or more.
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