Choosing a Qualified Contractor
Choosing the Right Sealcoating Contractor
In recent years, the number of sealcoating contractors operating in our area has increased significantly. While many companies operate with professionalism and integrity, others enter the market with limited experience, minimal equipment, and a focus on quick, short-term work rather than long-term results.
At Beckage Sealcoating, we believe informed customers make better decisions. As part of our commitment to protecting property owners and raising the standards within our industry, we have created the following checklist of questions to help you evaluate any contractor you may be considering.
This guide is designed to help quality-conscious consumers identify the difference between an established, professional pavement maintenance company and a contractor who may lack the experience, materials, or resources required to deliver lasting results. The questions below will help you better understand what to look for in a sealcoating provider and what separates true professionals from temporary operators.
While this checklist was developed with pavement maintenance in mind, the same principles apply to many types of service projects. A reputable contractor should be transparent, knowledgeable, properly equipped, and able to clearly explain the materials and process behind their work.
When comparing proposals, remember that value is not defined by the lowest price. If a proposal comes in significantly lower than others, it is worth asking why. Often the difference comes down to the quality of materials, preparation methods, or application standards — factors that directly impact the durability and performance of the finished work.
Compare quality, experience, and long-term value — not just the bottom line.
Is your Contractor…
Beckage Sealcoating
Other
A Better Business Bureau member since 1994? Accredited A+ Rating?
A LICENSED N.J. home improvement contractor?
Fully insured with liability and workman’s compensation insurance?
Able to provide quality referrals from past customers?
Using the highest quality materials? (not illegal oil base)
An F.A.A. and D.O.T. approved commercial grade coal tar sealer (exceeds federal specification RP-355e) with polymer latex is applied according to specifications?
Giving you a detailed written explanation of the entire job process and materials used?
Able to present a quality written proposal with exact job specifications? (Not on the back of a business card!)
Able to provide a well-trained knowledgeable staff?
Able to provide call back’s and estimates quickly?
Arriving to the job site with equipment and vehicles appropriately lettered representing the sealcoating company?
Offering you a high quality brush application method?
Credible, with well-known advertising methods? i.e. Yellow Pages, Internet, Newspapers, Magazine Ads, Post Cards, etc.
Consumer Warning
Property owners should be cautious of contractors who go door-to-door offering to sealcoat a driveway using “leftover material” from another job. This is a common tactic used by temporary or traveling operators who often work without proper insurance, equipment, or licensing.
In many cases, these contractors claim they have excess sealer in their tank and offer a heavily discounted price if the work is completed immediately. Unfortunately, this approach is frequently associated with substandard work and the use of improper materials.
New Jersey regulations prohibit the use of certain oil-based sealcoating products due to environmental and safety concerns. These products are often extremely shiny, slippery, and can create hazardous driving or walking conditions once applied. Because these materials are not approved for use in the state, they may also create liability concerns for homeowners.
A reputable sealcoating contractor should never pressure you for immediate work or claim to have leftover materials available for a quick job. Professional companies schedule projects in advance, provide clear proposals, carry proper insurance, and use approved materials applied through a consistent process.
If someone approaches your property unexpectedly offering this type of service, it is best to decline and contact a licensed, established contractor instead.