AAA Seal Coating and Paving

FAQ'S

How long should I stay off my sealed asphalt driveway?

We recommend you stay off the driveway for at least 2 days. You can walk on it immediately, but try to keep automobiles off for 2 days.

How often should I seal my driveway?

We recommend that you seal your driveway 90 days after installation and again the following year. From this point, it should be once every two to three years.

Why should I sealcoat my driveway?

Seal coat is a protective measure you can do to increase the longevity of your driveway. The average life of an asphalt driveway is 15 years without sealing. With seal coating regularly every 2-3 years, you can almost double the life of the driveway. Asphalt pavements are made up of stone (aggregate) fine stone or sand, and asphalt cement. The asphalt cement is what gives the pavement its black appearance is the “glue” that holds everything together. New asphalt is jet black but soon begins to fade. That’s oxidation; this is the effect of sun, rain and snow oxidizing the asphalt cement in the pavement. Given enough time the pavement becomes brittle and has less resistance to the loads placed on it. Asphalt is a petroleum product so any other petroleum derivatives that contact it will dissolve into the asphalt, weakening or dissolving the “glue-like” properties. These products commonly include motor oil, transmission/power steering or brake fluids, gasoline and perhaps household solvents. A good quality sealcoating will protect the asphalt from all these damaging factors while providing curb appeal. Many years of research has proven that proper maintenance including sealcoating can double the life of an asphalt driveway.

What about cracks throughout the driveway?

Cracks need immediate attention. Cracks in the pavement require crack sealant materials. Left alone cracks allow moisture to penetrate the asphalt surface. Water expands as it freezes, so moisture in the cracks does the greatest damage in the winter months. Cracks are filled with an injected rubberized material. This slows deterioration and strengthens the surface despite being visible after the driveway has been sealed. Crack sealing is not guaranteed.

What about those stains?

One way to prevent stains is to sealcoat the pavement in the first place. We broom and scrub the stain to abolish any free-floating residue. The area is primed prior to the sealing process. Some oils stains will not be 100% eliminated and we may recommend patching.

What is the price of sealcoating?

Each driveway is different. Our pricing is based on size and condition of the driveway. Once we receive your request for pricing we will send out an estimator. We will leave the estimate at your door or in your mailbox. We offer special discount programs during the season please ask about them when you contact us.

Why do I need to give two telephone numbers + e-mail address?

Should the crew not be able to complete the driveway for any reason, we would like to notify you immediately.

Do you come back and pick up the AAA Sealcoating signs?

No, these signs are disposable. However, we would appreciate you leaving them up for 7-10 days. The signs are our number 1 source of advertising. This is the most effective way of controlling our costs, keeping our prices competitive and passing this savings to our customers.

Should I clean my driveway prior to service?

No, as part of the service we will clean your driveway. We use high-pressure cleaners and wire wisk brushes to prep the driveway. This will ensure the sealcoat adheres properly.

Will you do asphalt patches and fill holes?

We can fill small holes with cold patch (a cold asphalt) upon request. We also offer hot asphalt.

When is the best time to sealcoat my driveway?

Ideally, days above 53 degrees and nights not lower then 40 degrees. We begin sealcoating in April (weather permitting) and continue through most of October.

Will sealcoat affect my grass?

No, sealer will not harm your lawn. A mowing or two will eliminate the sealer.

Why have tire marks appeared in my driveway?

Tire marks are common 1-2 weeks after sealcoating. They will disappear as the sealer continue to cure.

Why are there areas of sealcoat grayish in color on my driveway?

Sealer needs sunlight to cure! Shaded areas (near house or trees) may appear grayish in color but will darken and blend with the driveway 1-2 weeks after sealcoating.

Why are there texture differences on my driveway?

Certain areas of a driveway (i.e., garage, stone walls, railroad ties, etc.) need to be trimmed out by hand first. The texture may appear different, but will conform over a period of time.

Will my driveway still have surface cracks (spider cracks) after you seal?

These spider cracks will not be eliminated. They do not affect the overall structure and condition of the driveway.


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