08/24/2021
SEALCOATING: DON'T BE SCAMMED BY A DRIVE-BY SEALCOATING JOB
THE SCENERIO
A contractor knocks on your door unannounced then offers to sealcoat your asphalt driveway "on the spot". They tell you about the great deal you'll get but fails to mention that they’ll be using watered-down sealant or used motor oil.
HOW TO SPOT THE SCAM
Sealcoat is an emulsion of coal tar or asphalt, water, and a fine aggregate like silica sand. If the contractor at your door doesn’t have a tank that’s actively mixing the sealcoating material, send him or her on their way. Other tip-offs to a problem include the fact that his truck has an out-of-state license plate Or their claims that the job can be done only “today.”
HOW THE JOB SHOULD BE DONE
Sealcoating helps protect the underlying pavement from air, sunlight, salts, and petroleum products. It also prevents water from turning hairline cracks into bigger ones. The aggregate in the mix enhances traction, acts as a wear layer, and fills small cracks. Also, sealcoating gives the driveway a uniform black color.
But sealcoating is a messy and tedious job to do yourself. To get a top-notch professional job, make sure that all of the steps outlined below are written into your estimate or contract and that the bid includes a total cost.⤵️
HERE ARE THE STEPS INVOLVED
• The sealcoat should be applied when it’s at least 50°F and there is no forecast of rain for 48 hours. New asphalt should be sealed only after it has cured for at least a minimum of 90 days & No longer than the following year.
•The contractor should apply the sealant with a brush, squeegee, or sprayer.
• The contractor should edge grass alongside the driveway and protect plantings.
• He should repair cracks in the asphalt and use a wire brush and other tools to clear the pavement surface of all loose debris.
• He should clean and prime oil & gas stains
Sealcoating lasts for years depending on usage & climate
