Should I get a written guarantee on my Ottawa driveway sealing job?

Yes, absolutely get a written guarantee on your driveway sealing work — but understand what realistic guarantees cover and what they don't in Ottawa's harsh climate.

A reputable driveway sealing contractor should provide a written guarantee covering material adhesion and workmanship defects for at least one full season, typically 12 to 18 months. This means if the sealer peels, flakes off in sheets, or fails to adhere properly due to improper surface preparation or application technique, the contractor will return to fix it at no charge. Quality sealcoating applied correctly should last 2 to 3 years in Ottawa before requiring reapplication.

However, realistic guarantees have important limitations that honest contractors will explain upfront. Normal wear from traffic, gradual fading from UV exposure, and minor scuff marks from snow shovels are not defects — they're expected aging. Ottawa's 50+ freeze-thaw cycles per winter will eventually cause any sealer to show wear, particularly in wheel tracks and turning areas. Damage from snowplow blades, metal-edged shovels, or oil spills are not covered under workmanship guarantees.

What to look for in a written sealing guarantee: The contractor should specify the sealer type used (asphalt emulsion or coal tar), application rate (typically 0.15 to 0.20 gallons per square foot), weather conditions required for application (above 15°C with no rain for 24 hours), and surface preparation performed (cleaning, crack filling, oil stain treatment). The guarantee should clearly state what constitutes failure versus normal wear, and the contractor's remedy (reapplication of failed areas or full re-sealing).

Red flags to avoid: Be wary of contractors offering guarantees longer than 3 years — no sealer lasts that long in Ottawa's climate regardless of quality. Avoid door-to-door contractors who can't provide local references or written contracts. Never hire anyone who demands full payment upfront or pressures you to sign immediately. Legitimate sealing contractors carry WSIB coverage and can provide proof of insurance.

Timing matters for guarantees — sealing work done too late in the season (October or November) may not cure properly before winter, voiding any guarantee. The best sealing window in Ottawa is May through September when temperatures consistently stay above 15°C and rain can be avoided for the required curing period.

Need help finding a driveway sealing contractor with proper guarantees? Ottawa Driveways can match you with local professionals who provide written warranties on their sealing work.