I required the small trench from the back exterior of my property leading towards the driveway to be filled. Steve arrived on the same day, provided me with an estimate, and was ready to complete the project. The only delay we experienced was awaiting township inspection of electrical conduit positioned in the trench prior to closing.
Despite the non-stop rain for 3-4 days, Steve was patient and returned when the weather permitted for proper application and cure time. He compacted every layer of the trench after having returned the original piled dirt from the trench opening, hauling away any excess dirt. Steve stated that he had filled the trench with code-specific gravel height and finished filing it, topped with asphalt. When I saw how professionally Steve had done the trench, to the point where the asphalted area didn't look like it belonged to the driveway, I asked him about the seal coating services he provided. I was simply stuck on the look.
Although the driveway wasn't new, it was not too bad. It had very minor, fine lines from wear and tear. One area in the far back of the property had a tree branch uprooting asphalt and causing an actual crack, but nothing bad enough to prevent use or cause property structure water damage. To lower the risk of liability, Steve informed me that the driveway appears to have been previously sealed with water-based paint. He also advised me that although the sealant could be applied, it might not adhere and may look patchy from some minor crevice hole dip areas in the asphalt that were not big enough to repair. Nevertheless, I proceeded with wanting the sealant application not only to protect the driveway but also to achieve a more uniform look, especially since residue from the renovation made the driveway look worn down.
For an additional cost, oil-based driveway sealant was applied on 10/7/22 and dried up nicely enough to walk over, but Steve advised me to give it about a week to allow it to set. During my test walk inspection, I noticed a few spotty areas where the sealant did not fully adhere because that was where the dirt was initially stored or due to prior moisture that had not fully dried up before the sealant application. When I brought this matter up to Steve on 10/12/22, he came to my property within 30 minutes to address it. He broomed swept and used a blower to clear the driveway and applied a 75% 2nd coat sealant application.
I was so impressed with Steve's care for his craft and providing professional workmanship that even though I had paid in full, I decided to give an extra monetary tip! In comparison to other estimates, pricing was reasonable and within the fair market, considering the add-on sealant application.
I recommend giving him a try—Steve is great!
October 13, 2022