The process begins when a client contacts Eau Claire Sealcoat seeking a quote for a project (email info@eauclairesealcoat.com or by calling the office at 715-874-5335). During the initial inquiry, the customer will provide a name, phone number, email, project location and work type requested. A visit to the project site enables an accurate assessment of the work’s scope. Based on the area of asphalt, the amount of cracks, the number of infrared patches, and liner feet of line striping obtained during the onsite visit, our team prepares a detailed quote for the client. Once both parties agree on the terms, the project details are finalized, and work can commence.
The work begins…
If any infrared patches are needed, they will be scheduled before any other part of the project begins. The unit provides ample heat to rework nearly any asphalt surface. The bed is positioned over the asphalt until it reaches a workable temperature. Once the desired temperature is achieved, the bed is raised, and the raking process begins. Raking loosens old asphalt and removes debris, while new asphalt is added to level the patch with the surrounding area and replenish oils for a strong bond during rolling. The patch is then rolled smooth and is ready to be driven on once it cools to the normal temperature of the surrounding environment.
Routing cracks effectively removes oxidized fractured pavement from the crack surface, revealing intact vertical walls for the sealant to adhere to. The larger area provided by routing allows for more sealant to be applied, accommodating increased movement. This practice can extend the sealant’s service life by years compared to non-routed cracks. The Heat Lance is essential for drying and preparing pavement cracks for repair. Heating the crack to the right temperature ensures the release of oils in the blacktop, enabling proper sealing of the sealant and preventing future water damage to the repair. After torching, the high-temperature liquid crack sealant is applied, which enhances the bonding between the sealant and your blacktop. Typically, the crack sealer sets up quickly, allowing you to drive on it within 45 minutes to an hour.
Effective cleaning is essential to ready the asphalt for sealing. Accumulated dirt and debris, particularly in low areas or where chemicals have spilled onto the blacktop, must be addressed. Utilizing wire brushes or power brooms equipped with heavy wire heads effectively dislodges this debris, guaranteeing an outstanding outcome for your project. We use commercial blowers alongside wire brooms to clear dirt and debris from areas to be sealed, ensuring they’re moisture and debris-free. In tight spaces or sensitive areas, smaller blowers are used. Our experienced team operates the equipment for optimal results. The sealcoat will be carefully applied by hand using a brush, ensuring precise coverage around concrete edges, landscaping, or home foundations to prevent any unintended application. After completing the handwork, the subsequent application processes can proceed. Once the edging is complete, we’ll take the time to apply the sealcoat to smaller areas by hand using a sealcoat broom. Hand applications can look messy if not done correctly, and that’s where our 30 years of experience really make a difference. We understand the importance of achieving a polished finish, and we’re confident you do too. Using the right application method is crucial to us because we truly value your investment. For larger areas, we’ll use spraying techniques to give your lot or driveway a clean, brushless appearance. Once the project is finished, we’ll block off the area with caution tape or ribbon for 24 to 48 hours to ensure proper drying and curing. When necessary, areas to be sealed can also be completed in two parts to accommodate ongoing traffic flow, ensuring your business can remain open without losing customers for the day.
If line painting is required, it will be done once the sealcoat has dried. Chalk lines are used to outline the areas where the lines will be painted. High-quality traffic paint is used for durability and visibility. Each parking space, arrow, and any stenciling is carefully painted to create clear and distinct layouts.