Ostermiller Construction LLC in Shepherd, MT specializes in concrete, asphalt, curb, driveway, walkway, sidewalk, parking lot construction, and dirt work. We offer free estimates.\n\nWe serve in Shepherd, MT, Broadview Town MT; Roundup MT; Camp Three MT; Klein MT; and the surrounding areas.\n\nAsphalt Repair, Asphalt Contractor, Asphalt Driveway Repair, Asphalt Crack Repair, Parking Lot Asphalt Repair\nConcrete Service\n\nFor more information visit our website: https://constructionshepherdmt.com/
Driveway Sealcoating questions, answered by experts
When hiring an asphalt paving contractor to install your driveway, ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a prospective driveway contractor:
How many years of experience do you have?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you have worker’s compensation?
Do you use subcontractors on your projects?
Do you clean up after the job is done?
Who is responsible for any damage to lawn or landscaping?
Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?
Do you give free estimates?
What is the timeline for completion?
How do you handle change orders?
Can you provide at least three references?
Can I see some of the work you’ve done?
Like all driveway materials, asphalt can crack in the wrong conditions and with age. Many things can cause asphalt to crack, including shifting soil or settling under the foundation. Other common causes are driving oversized vehicles on the asphalt, tree roots, and using rock salt during the snowy season. Proper installation and sealing the driveway every 10 years can help prevent cracks.
Depending on the product used, you should avoid using your driveway for 48 to 72 hours after sealing it. In general, water-based driveway sealers cure much faster compared to oil-based and solvent-based sealers. Some driveways are even ready in just four to five hours.
Whether you should resurface or replace your asphalt driveway heavily depends on its condition. If the foundation is solid and the damage is minor, resurfacing is your best bet because it’s more affordable and faster than replacing the driveway. But if your driveway has foundational problems and/or severe damage, like large, deep cracks and potholes, then it makes more sense to replace it.
New asphalt goes through two stages: drying and curing. Drying typically takes 24 to 72 hours, after which the surface is solid enough for light use like walking or careful driving. While you may be able to park on it after 72 hours, the surface is still soft and should be treated gently. Full curing is a much longer process, taking anywhere from 30 days to a full year for the asphalt to reach maximum strength. During this extended curing period, the asphalt is susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles, sharp objects, and high temperatures. Factors like weather, the specific asphalt mix, and application thickness all influence drying and curing times. For the most accurate timeline and to ensure the longevity of your new asphalt, it is always best to consult with your installation contractor for their specific recommendations.
The Circle, MT homeowners’ guide to driveway sealcoating
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The cost of a tar and chip driveway falls between gravel and asphalt. Is this unique process the happy medium you've been looking for? Let's take a look.
The average driveway coating takes between 30 minutes and eight hours to dry, but weather and sealant type can influence the dry time. Read on to learn more.
