How to Choose the Best Sealing Driveway Companies in NJ (2025)

The $3,000 Mistake: Why Choosing the Wrong Driveway Sealing Company Costs You

Last month, a homeowner in Livingston called us in a panic.

Six months earlier, they'd hired a "great deal" driveway sealing company they found on Craigslist. The quote was $145 for their 600 sq ft driveway—almost half what we quoted.

Now, their driveway looked worse than before sealing: - Sealer peeling in sheets (entire sections flaking off) - Cracks wider than before (never properly filled) - Oil stains bleeding through (no primer used) - Rough, uneven surface (wrong application method)

**The fix:** Complete sealer removal and re-application = $850

**Total cost:** $145 (bad job) + $850 (fix) = **$995** vs. our original $280 quote

**Lesson:** Cheap isn't cheap when you pay twice.

This guide will help you avoid that mistake.

What Makes a Sealing Driveway Company "Professional"?

Not all sealcoating companies are created equal. Here's what separates pros from amateurs:

1. **Established Business History**

**What to look for:** - ✅ 5+ years in business (ideally 10+) - ✅ Physical business address (not just P.O. box) - ✅ Business license and insurance - ✅ References from recent jobs (last 6 months)

**Red flags:** - ❌ "New to the area" or "just starting out" - ❌ No verifiable business address - ❌ Can't provide insurance certificate - ❌ No references or "all customers are happy"

**Why it matters:** Established companies have reputation to protect. Fly-by-night operators disappear when problems arise.

**How to verify:** - Search NJ Business Entity Database - Check Better Business Bureau rating - Google "Company Name + complaints" - Ask for certificate of insurance

2. **Proper Equipment & Materials**

Professional sealcoating requires commercial-grade equipment:

**Essential equipment:** - ✅ Commercial spray system (not squeegees) - ✅ Hot pour crack filling machine (not tube fillers) - ✅ Professional power washer (2500+ PSI) - ✅ Proper safety gear (respirators, boots)

**Quality materials:** - ✅ Commercial-grade sealer (60%+ solids) - ✅ Hot rubberized crack filler - ✅ Oil spot primer - ✅ Fine sand additive

**Questions to ask:** 1. "What brand of sealer do you use?" (Should name a commercial supplier, not Home Depot) 2. "Do you spray or squeegee?" (Spray is professional standard) 3. "What type of crack filler?" (Hot pour rubber is best) 4. "How many coats?" (2 coats minimum)

**Red flags:** - ❌ "We use whatever's on sale" - ❌ "Squeegee application is just as good" - ❌ "We don't need to fill cracks" - ❌ "One thick coat lasts longer"

3. **Comprehensive Preparation Process**

**Professional prep includes:**

**Step 1: Inspection (15-20 min)** - Assess crack severity - Identify oil stains - Check drainage issues - Note problem areas

**Step 2: Power Washing (30-45 min)** - 2500+ PSI commercial washer - Remove all dirt, debris, vegetation - Clean out crack channels - Ensure proper drying time (4-6 hours)

**Step 3: Crack Filling (1-2 hours)** - Hot rubberized crack filler (not tubes) - Fill all cracks >1/8" wide - Smooth/level filled areas - Allow proper curing time

**Step 4: Oil Spot Treatment (15-30 min)** - Apply oil spot primer - Seal petroleum-contaminated areas - Prevent bleed-through

**Questions to ask:** - "What's included in surface preparation?" - "Do you power wash before sealing?" - "How do you handle crack filling?" - "What about oil stains?"

**Warning signs of shortcuts:** - ❌ "We'll just sweep it clean" - ❌ "Small cracks don't need filling" - ❌ "Oil stains will seal over" - ❌ "Prep work is extra"

4. **Transparent, Detailed Estimates**

**What a professional estimate includes:**

**Written quote with:** - ✅ Exact square footage measurement - ✅ Itemized pricing (prep, materials, labor) - ✅ Sealer type and brand specified - ✅ Number of coats clearly stated - ✅ Crack filling details (linear footage) - ✅ Timeline and curing time - ✅ Warranty terms in writing - ✅ Total cost (no hidden fees)

**Example professional estimate:**

``` ESTIMATE: Residential Driveway Sealcoating Address: 123 Main St, Montclair, NJ 07042 Date: November 25, 2025

MEASUREMENTS: - Driveway: 600 sq ft - Cracks: Approximately 45 linear ft

SERVICES: 1. Power washing (2500 PSI) $80 2. Hot pour crack filling (45 ft) $90 3. Oil spot priming (2 spots) $40 4. Sealcoating - 2 coats $160 (Premium coal tar with sand)

TOTAL: $370

INCLUDES: - 2-year warranty on workmanship - Same-day cleanup - Traffic cone placement - Maintenance instructions

TIMELINE: - Day 1: Prep work (3-4 hours) - Day 2: Seal application (2-3 hours) - Day 3-4: Curing (no traffic)

PAYMENT: Due upon completion VALID: 30 days from estimate date

[Company signature, license #, insurance info] ```

**Red flag estimates:** - ❌ Verbal quote only ("It'll be about $200") - ❌ Price per bucket, not per sq ft - ❌ No mention of prep work - ❌ "All-inclusive" with no details - ❌ Pressure to sign today ("Special price expires tonight")

5. **Verifiable References & Reviews**

**What to check:**

**Online reviews (Google, Yelp, Facebook):** - Look for 4.5+ star average - Read recent reviews (last 3-6 months) - Check for response to negative reviews - Note recurring themes (good or bad)

**Direct references:** - Ask for 3-5 recent customers - Call them (don't just email) - Ask specific questions: - "Did they show up on time?" - "Did the job match the estimate?" - "How does it look 6 months later?" - "Any issues with warranty?"

**Project photos:** - Before/after photos of similar driveways - Close-ups of prep work and finished product - Evidence of proper equipment

**Warning signs:** - ❌ No online presence - ❌ Reviews only from 2+ years ago - ❌ Company doesn't respond to complaints - ❌ Refuses to provide references - ❌ "All our customers pay cash" (avoiding taxes/accountability)

The 7-Point Sealing Company Vetting Checklist

Use this checklist when evaluating driveway sealing contractors:

☑️ 1. Business Legitimacy

**Verify:** - [ ] NJ Business Entity Database registration - [ ] Current liability insurance ($1M+ recommended) - [ ] Workers' compensation insurance (if employees) - [ ] Physical business location (Google Street View it) - [ ] Years in business (5+ preferred)

**How to check:** - NJ Business Search: https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessNameSearch - Request certificate of insurance (ask them to email it) - Google their address (should show business, not residence)

☑️ 2. Equipment & Materials Quality

**Questions to ask:** - [ ] "What brand of sealer?" (Should be commercial supplier) - [ ] "Spray or squeegee application?" (Spray is better) - [ ] "How many coats?" (2 minimum) - [ ] "What type of crack filler?" (Hot pour rubber) - [ ] "Do you use sand additive?" (Should say yes)

**Red flags:** - Vague answers ("professional products") - Home improvement store brands - Single coat recommendations - No mention of crack filling

☑️ 3. Preparation Process

**Confirm includes:** - [ ] Power washing (not garden hose) - [ ] Crack filling (all cracks >1/8") - [ ] Oil spot priming (if needed) - [ ] Edge trimming/cleanup - [ ] Proper drying time before sealing

**Timeline check:** - Same-day prep and seal = ❌ RED FLAG - Multi-day process = ✅ PROFESSIONAL

☑️ 4. Written Estimate & Contract

**Must include:** - [ ] Exact square footage - [ ] Itemized pricing - [ ] Materials specified by brand/type - [ ] Number of coats clearly stated - [ ] Warranty terms in writing - [ ] Timeline with curing period - [ ] Payment terms (never pay 100% upfront)

**Red flags:** - Verbal estimates only - Pressure to sign immediately - Requests full payment upfront - No warranty mentioned

☑️ 5. Reputation & Reviews

**Check:** - [ ] Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 20+ reviews) - [ ] Better Business Bureau rating - [ ] Facebook page with customer posts - [ ] Recent project photos (last 6 months) - [ ] Responses to negative reviews (shows they care)

**Call references:** - [ ] Speak to 2-3 past customers - [ ] Ask about timeliness, quality, issues - [ ] Verify warranty was honored (if applicable)

☑️ 6. Insurance & Warranty

**Verify coverage:** - [ ] Liability insurance certificate provided - [ ] Workers' comp (if they have employees) - [ ] Warranty covers workmanship defects - [ ] Warranty duration (2 years recommended) - [ ] Warranty transferable if you sell home

**Test their knowledge:** - "What's covered under warranty?" - "What voids the warranty?" - "How do I file a warranty claim?"

☑️ 7. Professional Communication

**Positive signs:** - [ ] Responds to calls/emails within 24 hours - [ ] Shows up on time for estimate - [ ] Provides detailed answers to questions - [ ] Explains process clearly - [ ] Doesn't pressure for immediate decision - [ ] Offers to answer follow-up questions

**Red flags:** - Hard to reach after initial contact - Late or no-show for appointment - Vague or evasive answers - High-pressure sales tactics - "One-time offer" or "sign today" demands

Red Flags: When to Walk Away

🚩 #1: Door-to-Door "Deals"

**The pitch:** "We just finished a job in your neighborhood and have leftover sealer. We can do your driveway today for $150."

**Why it's a scam:** - Professional sealer doesn't "go bad" overnight - They're using substandard materials to cut costs - No accountability (gone tomorrow) - Rushed work = shortcuts

**Alternative:** Get 3 written estimates from established local companies

🚩 #2: Cash-Only, No Receipt

**The pitch:** "Pay cash and save the tax—$200 instead of $240."

**Problems:** - No proof of payment if issues arise - No warranty enforcement - Company avoiding taxes (illegal) - No insurance coverage if someone injured

**Alternative:** Insist on check/credit card payment with written receipt

🚩 #3: Pressure to Sign Today

**The pitch:** "This price is only good if you sign today. Tomorrow it goes up $100."

**Why it's manipulative:** - Prevents you from comparing quotes - Doesn't allow time for reference checks - Tactic used by scammers and desperate contractors - Professional companies honor quotes for 30 days

**Alternative:** "I need to compare 3 quotes. If you're the best value, I'll choose you."

🚩 #4: Requires Large Deposit

**The pitch:** "We need 50% upfront to buy materials."

**Red flags:** - Professional companies have supplier accounts - Materials cost <30% of total job - Large deposits = cash flow problems - Risk of taking money and disappearing

**Acceptable payment terms:** - Nothing upfront (ideal) - 10-20% deposit maximum - Balance due upon completion - Final payment after your inspection

🚩 #5: No Physical Address

**The pitch:** "We're mobile—just call this number and we'll come to you."

**Problems:** - Can't verify business location - No way to find them if problems arise - Likely unlicensed/uninsured - No accountability

**Alternative:** Only hire companies with: - Verifiable business address - Listed on Google Maps - Physical office or shop

🚩 #6: "Too Good to Be True" Pricing

**The pitch:** "$99 for any size driveway!"

**Reality check:**

**Actual costs for 600 sq ft driveway:** - Power washing: $60-$80 - Crack filling (50 ft): $75-$125 - Sealer (2 coats): $120-$150 - Labor: $80-$120 - **Minimum professional cost:** $335-$475

**$99 driveway means:** - Skipped preparation (no crack filling) - Watered-down sealer (1 coat) - Poor coverage (thin application) - No warranty - Fails within 6-12 months

**Remember:** Professional work has professional prices. If it's 50% cheaper than every other quote, there's a reason.

Questions to Ask Every Driveway Sealing Contractor

Print this list and bring it to estimate appointments:

About Their Business

1. **"How long have you been in business in New Jersey?"**
2. - Looking for: 5+ years
3. - Red flag: "Just started" or "new to the area"

1. **"Can you provide a certificate of insurance?"**
2. - Should email/show immediately
3. - Must include liability and workers' comp

1. **"Can I see your NJ business license?"**
2. - Legitimate companies have no problem sharing
3. - Red flag: "I'll get back to you on that"

1. **"Do you have references from jobs in my area?"**
2. - Should provide 3-5 recent customers
3. - Best if same city/neighborhood

About the Process

1. **"What brand of sealer do you use, and why?"**
2. - Should name specific commercial brand
3. - Red flag: "Professional grade" or "the best"

1. **"Do you spray or squeegee the sealer?"**
2. - Spray = professional
3. - Squeegee = acceptable for small areas
4. - Red flag: "Both work the same"

1. **"How many coats will you apply?"**
2. - Answer should be: 2 coats
3. - Red flag: "One thick coat lasts longer"

1. **"What's included in your surface preparation?"**
2. - Should mention: power wash, crack fill, oil spot prime
3. - Red flag: "We clean it good"

1. **"What type of crack filler do you use?"**
2. - Best answer: Hot pour rubberized
3. - Acceptable: Cold pour rubber
4. - Red flag: "Tube filler" or "crack seal from Home Depot"

1. **"Do you add sand to the sealer?"**
2. - Should say yes (for traction)
3. - Explains why: prevents slipping when wet

About Pricing & Timeline

1. **"Can you provide a written, itemized estimate?"**
2. - Should break down: prep, materials, labor
3. - Red flag: "Verbal quote is fine"

1. **"What's your payment schedule?"**
2. - Good: Nothing upfront, pay upon completion
3. - Acceptable: 10-20% deposit, balance on completion
4. - Red flag: 50%+ upfront

1. **"How long will the job take?"**
2. - Typical: 2-3 days (prep day, seal day, cure day)
3. - Red flag: "We can do it all in 4 hours"

1. **"When can you start?"**
2. - Busy (good) contractors: 1-2 weeks out
3. - Red flag: "We can start tomorrow" (off-season or desperate)

About Warranty & Maintenance

1. **"What warranty do you provide?"**
2. - Should be: 2 years on workmanship
3. - Covers: Peeling, flaking, defects
4. - Red flag: "No warranty needed—it'll last"

1. **"What would void the warranty?"**
2. - Typical exclusions: Oil stains, snow plow damage, improper use
3. - Red flag: Long list of exclusions

1. **"How soon can I drive on it?"**
2. - Answer should be: 48-72 hours
3. - Red flag: "You can drive on it tomorrow"

1. **"What maintenance do you recommend?"**
2. - Should suggest: Avoid gas/oil spills, clean regularly, reseal in 2-3 years
3. - Red flag: "No maintenance needed"

Comparing Quotes: What to Look For

You've got 3 estimates. Here's how to compare apples to apples:

Create a Comparison Spreadsheet

| Feature | Company A | Company B | Company C | |---------|-----------|-----------|-----------| | **Price** | $280 | $195 | $425 | | **Sq Footage** | 600 | "About 600" | 612 | | **Prep Included** | Power wash, crack fill, oil prime | "Clean surface" | Power wash, crack fill, edge trim | | **Sealer Brand** | Jet Black | "Professional grade" | PAR-KAN Industrial | | **Coats** | 2 | 1 | 2 | | **Application** | Spray | Squeegee | Spray | | **Sand Added** | Yes | Not mentioned | Yes | | **Crack Fill Type** | Hot pour rubber | Cold tube | Hot pour rubber | | **Warranty** | 2 years written | "It'll last" | 3 years written | | **Reviews** | 4.8★ (45 reviews) | 3.2★ (8 reviews) | 4.9★ (112 reviews) | | **Years in Business** | 8 years | 2 years | 40 years | | **Timeline** | 2 days | Same day | 3 days |

How to Score Each Quote

Assign points (1-5 scale):

**Price (15%):** - Not the cheapest or most expensive = 5 points - Middle of the road = 3 points - Outlier (50% cheaper/more than others) = 1 point

**Preparation Process (25%):** - Power wash + crack fill + oil prime = 5 points - Power wash + crack fill = 4 points - Basic cleaning only = 2 points

**Materials Quality (20%):** - Commercial brand + spray + 2 coats + sand = 5 points - Commercial brand + squeeze + 2 coats = 3 points - Unknown brand + 1 coat = 1 point

**Reputation (20%):** - 4.5+ stars, 50+ reviews, 10+ years = 5 points - 4+ stars, 20+ reviews, 5+ years = 3 points - <4 stars or <10 reviews or <3 years = 1 point

**Warranty (10%):** - 2+ years written warranty = 5 points - 1 year written = 3 points - No warranty or verbal only = 1 point

**Communication (10%):** - Detailed written estimate, responsive, professional = 5 points - Written estimate, somewhat responsive = 3 points - Verbal quote, hard to reach = 1 point

**Example scoring:**

| Company | Price | Prep | Materials | Reputation | Warranty | Communication | **Total** | |---------|-------|------|-----------|------------|----------|---------------|-----------| | A | 3 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | **4.1** | | B | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | **2.3** | | C | 1 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | **4.3** |

**Winner:** Company C (highest score)

**Even though Company C is most expensive:** - 40 years experience = peace of mind - 112 five-star reviews = proven track record - 3-year warranty = best in industry - Proper prep and materials = lasts longest

**Cost per year:** - Company B: $195 ÷ 1 year (likely fails early) = $195/year - Company C: $425 ÷ 3 years (warranty period) = $142/year

**Company C is actually cheaper over time.**

What to Expect: Timeline of a Professional Sealcoating Job

Day 1: Estimate & Agreement

**Your contractor should:** - Arrive within scheduled 1-hour window - Measure driveway with tape measure (not eyeball) - Walk entire surface, noting cracks and issues - Ask about oil stains, parking habits, traffic volume - Explain process step-by-step - Provide written estimate before leaving - Give you time to think (no pressure)

**Timeline:** 20-30 minutes on-site

Day 2-3: Pre-Job Communication

**You should receive:** - Confirmation call 24-48 hours before start - Reminder of prep needed (move vehicles, pets inside) - Weather check (reschedule if rain forecast) - Expected arrival time

Day 4: Preparation Day

**Morning (8-10 AM arrival):** - Crew arrives with equipment truck - Sets up barriers/cones - Begins power washing (30-45 min)

**Mid-morning:** - Surface drying time (4-6 hours in good weather) - May leave and return, or move to crack filling

**Afternoon:** - Hot pour crack filling (all cracks >1/8") - Oil spot priming if needed - Edge trimming/cleanup - Final inspection of prep work

**End of day:** - Remove equipment (leave barriers for drying) - Confirm with you that surface is ready - Schedule seal application for next day

**Your job:** Keep vehicles off driveway

Day 5: Sealcoating Application

**Morning (8-10 AM arrival):** - Final surface check (ensure dry) - Mix sealer with sand additive - Set up spray equipment - Apply first coat (30-45 min)

**Mid-morning:** - First coat drying time (4-6 hours) - Crew may leave and return

**Afternoon:** - Second coat application (30-45 min) - Hand-brush edges for clean lines - Place "DO NOT DRIVE" cones - Clean up all equipment

**Final walk-through:** - Show you finished work - Explain curing timeline (48-72 hours) - Provide maintenance tips - Collect payment

**Your job:** Keep all traffic off for 48-72 hours

Day 6-8: Curing Period

**What to expect:** - Surface may feel slightly tacky (normal) - Avoid foot traffic for 24 hours - Absolutely NO vehicles for 48-72 hours - May notice fresh sealer smell (dissipates in 24 hours)

**Warning signs (call contractor immediately):** - Sealer not drying/curing after 72 hours - Large areas of pooling/unevenness - Visible tire tracks or footprints

Day 9+: Enjoy Your Driveway!

**What proper sealcoating looks like:** - Rich, even black color (no streaks) - Slight texture from sand additive (not slippery) - Clean edges (no overspray on walkways) - Cracks filled and barely visible - Water beads up on surface (not soaking in)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a sealing company is insured?

**Answer:** Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and verify it's current.

**What to request:** "Can you email me your certificate of insurance before we schedule?"

**What the COI should show:** - Company name matches estimate - Current dates (not expired) - Liability coverage: $1,000,000+ recommended - Workers' compensation (if they have employees)

**How to verify it's real:** - Call the insurance company listed (number on COI) - Confirm policy is active and in good standing - Ask if coverage amounts are accurate

**Red flags:** - "I'll get that to you later" (then doesn't) - Shows expired certificate - Policy is "in the mail" or "being renewed" - Becomes defensive when asked

**No insurance = walk away immediately.**

What's a fair price for driveway sealcoating in NJ?

**Answer:** $0.30-$0.45 per sq ft for professional service including prep work.

**Standard pricing by driveway size:**

| Size | Sq Ft | Fair Price Range | |------|-------|------------------| | 1-car | 400 | $180-$250 | | 2-car | 600 | $250-$350 | | 3-car | 1,000 | $400-$550 |

**Includes:** - Power washing - Crack filling (up to 50 linear ft) - Oil spot priming (if needed) - 2 coats of sealer - Sand additive - 2-year warranty

**Extra costs:** - Additional crack filling: $1.50-$2.50/linear ft - Extensive oil stain treatment: $50-$150 - Garage apron: $50-$100 - Difficult access (steep slope): +15-25%

**Warning signs:** - 50% cheaper than all other quotes (corners being cut) - 2x more expensive than all quotes (overcharging) - Won't itemize pricing (hiding cheap materials)

How long should I wait after paving to seal?

**Answer:** Wait 6-12 months minimum for new asphalt.

**Why the wait is critical:** - New asphalt contains petroleum oils - These oils need time to evaporate - Sealing too soon traps oils - Trapped oils prevent sealer adhesion - Result: Peeling, flaking, premature failure

**Timeline:** - **0-6 months:** Too soon—oils still evaporating - **6-9 months:** Acceptable in hot, dry climates - **9-12 months:** Ideal for NJ climate - **12-18 months:** Still fine, but don't wait longer

**How to tell asphalt is ready:** - Surface color faded to gray (not jet black) - Slight roughness when you walk on it - No fresh asphalt smell - Water soaks in slightly (not beading up)

**Exception:** If paving company used specific "ready to seal" asphalt mix, ask for written confirmation it's safe to seal sooner.

Can I seal my driveway in the rain?

**Answer:** No—sealcoating requires dry conditions for 48 hours (24 hours before, 24 hours after).

**Proper weather conditions:** - ✅ Temperatures 50°F-85°F - ✅ No rain in forecast (48-hour window) - ✅ Humidity below 85% - ✅ Light wind (helps drying)

**Bad weather conditions:** - ❌ Temperatures below 50°F (won't cure properly) - ❌ Temperatures above 90°F (dries too fast, poor adhesion) - ❌ Rain within 24 hours before (surface must be bone dry) - ❌ Rain within 24 hours after (washes away uncured sealer) - ❌ High humidity >85% (extends curing time)

**What happens if contractor seals in rain:** - Sealer won't adhere (peels off in sheets) - Uneven drying (streaky appearance) - Soft spots that never fully cure - Complete job failure within weeks

**Professional contractors:** - Monitor weather closely - Reschedule if forecast changes - Don't risk job quality for schedule

**Warning sign:** Contractor wants to seal despite poor forecast

How often should driveways be sealed in New Jersey?

**Answer:** Every 2-3 years for residential driveways, depending on usage and condition.

**Factors affecting frequency:**

**Seal every 2 years if:** - High traffic (3+ vehicles daily) - Full sun exposure (no shade) - Steep slope (water runoff stress) - Heavy winter de-icing salt use - Frequent oil/gas exposure

**Seal every 3 years if:** - Low traffic (1-2 vehicles) - Partial shade (trees nearby) - Level driveway - Light salt use - Minimal oil exposure

**Signs you need sealing NOW:** - Surface faded to gray (not black) - Water absorbs into surface (not beading) - Small cracks appearing (<1/8" wide) - Rougher texture than when new

**Don't over-seal:** - More than every 2 years = waste of money - Sealer builds up, becomes thick, may crack - Let previous coat wear naturally

**Track your schedule:** - Note when sealed on calendar/phone - Set reminder for 2.5 years out - Inspect annually to assess condition

What's the difference between cheap and professional sealer?

**Answer:** Solids content, additives, and performance. Professional sealer costs 30% more but lasts 2x longer.

**Comparison:**

| Feature | Home Depot Sealer | Professional Sealer | |---------|-------------------|---------------------| | **Price** | $25-$35/5-gal | $45-$60/5-gal | | **Solids Content** | 30-40% | 60-65% | | **Coverage** | 250-300 sq ft | 200-250 sq ft | | **Lifespan** | 1-2 years | 2-3 years | | **Additives** | Minimal | Polymers, UV protection, sand | | **Application** | Thin (1 coat) | Thick (2 coats) |

**What "solids content" means:** - Higher solids = thicker protective layer - More solids = better durability - Professional sealer: 60% solids = 60% protective material, 40% water carrier - Cheap sealer: 35% solids = 35% protection, 65% filler/water

**Real-world difference:**

**Scenario:** 600 sq ft driveway

**DIY with cheap sealer:** - Cost: $75 for sealer (3 buckets) - Lifespan: 1.5 years - Cost per year: $50/year - Seal 10x over 15 years: $750 total

**Professional with premium sealer:** - Cost: $270 ($90 materials + $180 labor) - Lifespan: 3 years - Cost per year: $90/year - Seal 5x over 15 years: $1,350 total

**But consider hidden costs:**

**DIY failures:** - Missed crack filling: $200-$400 repair - Poor application: Redo cost $270 - Time value: 8 hours @ $25/hr = $200

**Professional benefits:** - Warranty coverage (fixes included) - Proper crack repair (prevents damage) - Even application (curb appeal) - No time investment

**Bottom line:** "Cheap" sealer costs more when you factor in reduced lifespan, higher failure rate, and repair costs.

Get It Right: Hire Randy Seal Coating & Striping

At Randy Seal Coating & Striping, we've been the trusted name in North Jersey driveway sealcoating since 1985.

**Why homeowners choose us:**

✅ **40+ years of experience** protecting NJ driveways ✅ **Premium coal tar sealers** designed for NJ climate ✅ **Comprehensive preparation** (power wash, crack fill, oil prime) ✅ **Professional spray application** (not cheap squeegees) ✅ **2-year written warranty** on all sealcoating ✅ **4.9★ rating** from 100+ verified customers ✅ **Licensed & insured** ($2M liability coverage) ✅ **Free estimates** with on-site measurement

**Service areas:** Essex, Union, Passaic & Middlesex Counties

**Cities served:** Orange, Montclair, Bloomfield, Newark, East Orange, Elizabeth, Westfield, Cranford, Summit, Paterson, Clifton, Wayne, Little Falls, Edison, Woodbridge, Fords, Perth Amboy, and 60+ more.

Get Your FREE Written Estimate

📞 **Call:** 862-224-6666 📧 **Email:** randy@randysealcoating.com 🌐 **Online:** [Request Free Estimate](/contact)

**Available 7 days/week • Same-day estimates • No pressure, no obligation**

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*Compare us to anyone—we're confident you'll see why Randy Seal Coating & Striping has been North Jersey's most trusted paving contractor for over 40 years.*