With so many companies offering sealcoating, crack filling, and asphalt repair in Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, and surrounding areas, how do you know who’s legitimate and who’s cutting corners?
Here’s what to look for — and the questions you should ask before hiring anyone.
1. Proper Insurance & Local Credibility
A legitimate asphalt contractor in the Capital Region should carry:
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- A registered business in New York State
Ask this question:
“Can you provide proof of insurance before starting work?”
If they hesitate, that’s a red flag.
Local contractors who have built a reputation across Albany County, Saratoga County, and Schenectady County will gladly provide documentation. Fly-by-night crews typically won’t.
2. Clear Scope of Work (Not Just a Price)
A professional asphalt maintenance company should provide a written estimate detailing:
- Surface preparation process
- Crack filling method
- Type of sealer being used
- Number of coats applied
- Estimated drying/curing
Ask this question:
“What specific products and application methods do you use?”
For example, are they spraying diluted material or applying commercial-grade sealer at proper coverage rates? The difference directly affects longevity.
3. Quality of Materials & Equipment
In upstate New York, asphalt takes a beating from freeze-thaw cycles. Proper crack filling and sealing is critical.
Professional contractors use:
- Hot rubberized crack filler
- Commercial-grade sealer (not watered down)
- Oil spot primer when needed
- Professional application equipment
Ask this question:
“Do you hot crack fill structural cracks before sealing?”
If cracks aren’t properly treated, sealcoating alone is cosmetic — not protective.
4. Online Reviews & Local Presence
Search for:
- Google reviews
- Facebook reviews
- Before-and-after photos
- A professional website
- A physical business address
Established asphalt contractors serving the Capital Region typically have consistent online presence and customer testimonials.
Be cautious if:
- Reviews are brand new and clustered
- No local projects are shown
- The company name keeps changing
5. No High-Pressure Door Knocking
Be cautious of crews that:
- Show up unannounced
- Say they have “leftover material”
- Offer large discounts if you commit immediately
Reputable asphalt companies schedule estimates and provide written proposals. They don’t pressure homeowners on the spot.
Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Asphalt Contractor
Here are smart questions every homeowner or property manager in Albany and surrounding areas should ask:
- How long have you been serving the Capital Region?
- Are you fully insured in New York State?
- Do you hot crack fill or just seal over cracks?
- How many coats of sealer do you apply?
- What is your preparation process?
- How long should I wait before driving on it?
- Do you offer a written estimate?
These questions quickly separate professionals from part-timers.
Why Hiring a Local Capital Region Asphalt Company Matters
Local contractors understand:
- Upstate NY freeze/thaw damage
- Snowplow wear and tear
- Salt deterioration
- Proper seasonal timing for application
Sealcoating done too early in spring or too late in fall can fail due to temperature issues. A knowledgeable local contractor will schedule work based on proper conditions — not just convenience.
FAQs About Asphalt Maintenance in the Capital Region, NY
How often should I sealcoat my driveway in Upstate NY?
Every 2–3 years depending on traffic and weather exposure.
Is crack filling really necessary before sealcoating?
Yes. Crack filling prevents water intrusion, which is the #1 cause of asphalt failure in cold climates.
What temperature does it need to be to sealcoat?
Typically 50°F and rising, with no rain in the forecast for 24 hours.
How long does sealcoating last?
Properly applied commercial-grade sealcoating can last 2–3 years in residential settings.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Asphalt Investment
Your driveway or parking lot is one of the first things people see. More importantly, it protects the base underneath from costly structural damage.
When choosing an asphalt maintenance contractor in the Capital Region, NY, focus on:
- Insurance
- Process
- Materials
- Local reputation
- Transparency
The cheapest price is rarely the best value.
If you’re comparing estimates in Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, or surrounding areas, take the time to ask the right questions — and choose a contractor who treats your property like their own.
