Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions regarding asphalt maintenance. If your question has not been answered or you would like more information on a particular question, feel free to contact our office at 973-585-7007.

Why Sealcoat?

There are two main reasons to sealcoat. Sealcoating helps to protect and increase the life of your asphalt driveway or parking lot. It does this by forming a protective layer that repels the suns UV rays which make the asphalt brittle and crack and also seals out harmful chemicals like salt, oil, and gasoline. Besides the protection, the sealers rich, black color does wonders for your properties curb appeal.

What is the cost of sealcoating?

Each driveway and parking lot is different. The price depends on many factors including the square footage, the amount of cleaning necessary, and whether or not any repairs need to be made before the asphalt is sealcoated. We would be happy to come out to your property and provide a detailed estimate on what needs to be done to maximize the life of your asphalt.

What am I responsible for doing?

Before we arrive please have everything removed from the driveway and make sure sprinklers and hoses have been shut off so they do not spray the freshly sealed driveway. After 48 hours you can begin to use your driveway again. Just leave the barricade and yard sign at the end of the driveway and we will be by to pick them up.

How often should I seal my driveway?

Asphalt should be sealed every two to three years to get the longest life out of your asphalt.

How long does the process take?

For the average sized residential driveway without any major repairs, the process normally takes between one to two hours to complete.

How long do I need to stay off the driveway after it has been sealed?

You are going to want to keep the cars off the driveway for 48 hours after it has been sealed. You will be able to walk on the driveway within 24 hours. Although you can use the driveway within 48 hours, it takes several weeks for the sealer to fully cure. During this time period it is best to avoid any hard turns especially turning in place without the car moving. Any tire marks that do appear within the first couple of weeks will fade away as the sealer cures.

How will the sealer be applied?

For your average sized residential driveways the sealer will be applied by brushes and squeegees to avoid any overspray problems. Large driveways and commercial parking lots will be sealed using a spray technique. Both application processes provide the same quality job.

How many coats will be applied?

For residential driveways one coat of hand applied sealer provides the proper protection. Commercial parking lots will be sprayed with two coats of sealer due to higher volumes of traffic.

Are all sealers the same quality?

No. The sealer you buy at a hardware store does not compare to the commercial grade sealer we purchase from Sealmaster. The sealer that we use meets all Federal Specs. We also include the proper amounts of sand and additives to increase the durability and appearance of our sealer. The equipment that we use agitates the sealer so that we are applying a consistent mixture to your asphalt surface.

When is the best time to sealcoat?

It is important to only sealcoat when the temperature is at or above 50°. The best time of year to sealcoat is between the months of April – October.

Should a new driveway be sealcoated?

A new driveway needs time to cure before any sealer is applied. We typically recommend waiting one year from the time the driveway has been paved to allow the excess oils in the asphalt to wash away and oxidize. This way when the sealer is applied it will adhere to the asphalt properly.

Will the sealer fill in any depressions?

No. Sealer will not fill in any depressions or change the grade of your asphalt in anyway. The only way to fix these problems is by removing the area and replacing it with new hot asphalt. We will be able to provide a detailed plan upon seeing the driveway or parking lot during the estimate process.

Will you be careful not to get sealer where it is not supposed to be?

We are very meticulous when it comes to applying sealer. We make sure not to get any sealer on your curbing, sidewalks, pavers, etc.

Do I need to be home while you perform the work?

No, you do not need to be home. Just make sure to have everything off of your driveway and that there are no cars left in the garage that will need to come out.

Why is the hot tar crack filler still soft?

The crack filler is designed to remain flexible so that it can move with the driveway during freeze/thaw periods in the winter months.

Will I be able to see the crack filler after you seal the driveway?

Yes, you will be able to see where the cracks had been filled after the driveway has been sealed. There is no way to avoid this if you want to have your driveway protected.

What is your payment policy?

Payments can be made using either cash or check and are due upon completion for residential customers. Payment plans for commercial customers will be discussed in the contract. We will soon be offering you the option of paying by credit card.