What To Consider Before Buying a Sealcoat Tank
November 18, 2020It's easy to underestimate the amount of supplies you'll need for sealcoating season. When you're investing in brand-new supplies and sealcoating equipment, it's important to consider the size and scope of your company and the types of jobs you'll be taking, amongst other factors.
Read on to discover what to consider before buying a sealcoat tank, so you can make a decision that’s best for your business’s future.
Know Your Goals
When you're determining the ideal size for your sealcoating equipment, keep your long-term goals in mind. If you're only planning on taking the occasional odd job during the summer, small capacity equipment should work fine. For people who treat sealcoating as a full-time business, however, it's wise to invest in larger, longer-lasting tanks.
Some of the smaller sealcoating tanks can handle around 300 gallons. Larger models and rigs can accommodate up to 1,500. The larger your tank, the more types of jobs you’ll be able to accept. If you prefer small-scale projects, a 300-gallon tank will work well, but for bigger projects, you'll need high-capacity equipment.
Determine Travel Distance
If your sealcoating provider is a long drive away, investing in larger sealcoating equipment can reduce the number of trips you'll need to make for supplies. The time it takes to stock up on supplies cuts into the time you could be using to complete existing projects or search for your next job.
Even if your nearest shop is conveniently located, it's not a bad idea to use larger equipment. Some providers will offer discounts for customers that purchase their products in bulk, which can make filling up a larger tank more cost-effective than filling up a smaller one.
Compare Features and Design
Another thing to consider before buying a sealcoat tank is its features and overall design. The features and overall design of sealcoating equipment can vary between manufacturers. To make sure you get a tank that suits your best interests, you'll want to compare the different systems before deciding.
Most equipment will have a similar concept, with a few slightly modified features. The filter pot is one part you should inspect closely. A smaller pot needs to be cleaned more often than larger ones. Another feature you should check the quality of is the agitation system, which ensures your materials are properly mixed. Some people prefer to opt for poly or plastic tanks, while others swear by tanks made from heavy-gauge steel.
Talk to the manufacturer and distributor and ask them questions about the equipment. Make sure they seem friendly and knowledgeable and aren't pushing you to purchase a system that you're not sold on.
Purchase More, Not Less
Since asphalt sealer doesn't have an expiration date, it's a good idea to fill your tank with a little extra. People who are new tend to underestimate the amount of sealer they'll need and risk running out in the middle of a job. Stocking up on sealer can reduce the number of trips you'll need to make to your nearest provider, saving you gas, money, and time.
In need of a brand-new sealcoat tank? NAC Supply is your home for reliable, high-quality sealcoating equipment. Browse through our inventory or contact us with any questions.