10 Essential Sealcoating Strategies | For Construction Pros

Sealcoating is a significant part of our industry, whether directly or indirectly. Most of us deal with it in some capacity — and for many, it’s a substantial part of their business. This prompted me to reflect on various strategies and lessons learned over the years to optimize sealcoating jobs.

When considering this topic, I began by addressing common issues and concerns that arise before, during, and even after sealcoating projects are completed. Think about your most-recent sealcoating job and your process as I focus on a few key points as I progress through the sealcoating process.

1. Master the Art of Estimation. Sealcoating begins with accurate estimation, and proper job costing is crucial to ensure accurate estimates and job profitability. Unfortunately, many contractors make mistakes and lose money not because of poor job performance but because they don’t know their costs. Inaccurate estimates that are too high might cost you the job; estimates that are too low will cost you profits. And this happens even on small driveway projects. By understanding your numbers, you can make informed and accurate estimates and avoid financial losses. Job costing can be daunting, but there are valuable resources available. Trade shows like Pave/X and industry forums at www.pavementguru.com, for example, can offer valuable insights and guidance.
2. Build a Strong Relationship with Your Supplier. Develop a close working relationship with your sealer supplier. It’s surprising how many contractors lack this connection. By collaborating closely, you can benefit from their expertise in bidding complex jobs. They may even offer reduced prices on larger projects, and they can often streamline sealer delivery or suggest when you might use a drop tank on a job. Additionally, they can assist with marketing efforts — our company has even participated and supported our supplier in trade shows. Your supplier knows his product and knows the business so rely on him for support. The more you know about your product, the better equipped you’ll be to sell it to clients.
3. Prioritize Comfort and Expertise. Avoid taking on jobs that overwhelm you. Many contractors are tempted by large projects but lack the necessary skills and resources to handle them effectively. Stay within your comfort zone and focus on jobs that you can complete efficiently. There will be opportunities to take on larger projects in the future, but it’s wise to prioritize gradual growth. This doesn’t mean you should avoid the big jobs – what sealcoating contractor doesn’t want the high-profile jobs on his resume? But step up gradually; larger jobs can be extremely costly if things go wrong.
4. Communicate Clearly Especially in the Contract. Use a contract for every job and clearly outline your intentions and expectations. What square footage are you sealcoating? How many coats of sealer will you apply? What is the sand loading? Who is responsible for turning off sprinklers? For removing parked cars from areas where work is scheduled? How will change orders be handled? When is payment expected? You get the idea. Many asphalt contractors rely on verbal agreements, especially on smaller jobs, but a contract spells out all expectations and protects both sides. Communication is paramount to a successful job, so make sure to get the phone numbers and email address of your contact – and make sure she has yours.
5. Schedule promptly. No one likes to wait months, so try not to get too far ahead as that inconveniences the client. Communicate your scheduling as soon as you can and do your best to adhere to the date you select. If you do have to change the date, let the client know as soon as possible – and ask if that new date is acceptable. 
6. When Sealing, Take Your Time. Many #low-bid contractors rush to complete jobs just to break even. These guys bid too low so they can get the job, then must work quickly to get to the next low-bid job because they are making very little on each job. This often results in taking shortcuts and poor-quality work. Keep your schedule manageable to ensure time to perform a premium job – a job you and your crew can be proud of. The old saying, “The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of low price,” applies here.
7. Prepare a Post-Job “What to Expect” Sheet. This extends the communication process by detailing the work they’ve had done, how to care for it, and what to expect. Our “What to Expect” sheet points out that power steering marks are common and can last up to 30 days. We explain the difference between drying and curing, which can take up to 30 days. We explain that sprinkler water might stain the sealer, and that the sealer will eventually oxidize and won’t be “black black” forever. We discuss wear and tear and the need for reapplication. We explain that on commercial properties, wear is more likely to occur in entryways and high-traffic areas, while parking stalls (and residential driveways) might not show wear for several years. We caution homeowners who just want a black driveway against over-sealing. A post-job “What to Expect” sheet also serves as a marketing piece, reminding the client of the work you’ve done and reinforces your relationship.
8. Send Your Invoice Before Completion. Time it so the invoice arrives as you finish the job. This reminds the client of your company while your work is still fresh in his mind. It also shortens the receivables process and helps get you paid in a timelier manner.
9. “Sell” the Job. Your crew does great work, and you are proud of the jobs your company does. Let your client know! Many contractors feel the need to conceal themselves for some reason and refrain from communication with the client once the job starts. Don’t hesitate to invite the client to walk the site with you during the job so they can see what they’re paying for, view your progress, and witness your crews’ professionalism. Encourage the client to walk the finished job with you. If any issues arise, it’s much easier to address them promptly, which reinforces your professionalism. Additionally, they might have a payment ready for you on the same day.
10. Send a “Thank-you” Note: Following up with a brief note is a great way to remind them of your company and the work you did. It reinforces your relationship and gives you an opportunity to ask if they have any questions. Effective communication is crucial in building long-term loyalty with a client.

 As you can see, several simple tasks that we can all undertake will contribute to the smooth execution of the project, improve receivables, and foster long-term loyalty. My business is fortunate to have a predominantly repeat clientele, which is a direct result of adhering to these 10 steps and consistently exceeding client expectations.