Two-Star Review for Seal-Rite
I’m giving Seal-Rite two stars because the machine itself runs properly, has no mechanical issues, and overall I am happy with the product. Unfortunately, the customer service, communication, and attention to detail throughout the purchasing process were extremely disappointing.
My total investment in this setup exceeded $128,000 when including the truck, and Seal-Rite themselves received over $51,000 from me for the equipment and installation. Given that level of investment, I expected a much higher level of communication and customer support.
Throughout the process, I had to follow up repeatedly to get updates on my purchase. Not once did I receive a proactive phone call. For a company selling equipment at this price point, I expected much better communication.
I initially worked with a sales representative named Brandon, who has since been promoted. During the sales process, I made it clear that I wanted every available bell and whistle Seal-Rite had to offer, with the exception of the electronic retractable hose reel. Based on those discussions, I believed I was purchasing a fully equipped unit.
The most frustrating part is that I did not realize the operator’s chair was missing until after I had already picked up the truck and returned home. At delivery, I assumed everything we had discussed was included. Once I discovered the omission, I reached out, but by then Brandon was no longer handling my account and the person I spoke with had no knowledge of our prior conversations beyond what was listed on the invoice.
While I may not have specifically requested the chair by name, I believed it would be included as part of a fully equipped setup. My concern was never the cost of the chair itself; it was the fact that an important operating component was omitted and not discovered until after delivery.
What makes this issue more significant is that the operator’s chair is not simply a comfort item. When using the spray bar, the truck is moving at speeds approaching 10 mph while the operator is simultaneously monitoring and controlling the application. A proper seat helps provide a stable and safe operating position. For that reason, I viewed the chair as a necessary operating component rather than an optional accessory.
When I brought the issue to their attention, I was essentially told that because the chair was not listed on the invoice, there was little they were willing to do. Rather than helping resolve what I believe was a communication issue, I was left to purchase and install the chair at my own expense.
There were also other quality-control concerns. The threads on the gas cap had been painted over, and after filling the fuel cell, the cap eventually fell off because the issue had not been addressed. The spray bar included with my setup was also not adequately secured and dipped while I was traveling on the highway, nearly causing significant damage to my truck and equipment.
Overall, the machine performs well, which is the primary reason this review is not lower. However, the communication, lack of follow-through, and several preventable oversights left me disappointed with the overall buying experience.
I share this review to provide honest feedback and encourage improvement. The equipment itself is solid, but customer service is just as important as the product. After spending over $51,000 directly with Seal-Rite, I expected much better communication, accountability, and attention to detail.
As someone who regularly speaks with contractors and equipment owners throughout the pavement maintenance industry, I believe it’s important to share both positive and negative purchasing experiences so others can make informed decisions. Based on my experience, I will likely explore other suppliers, including SealMaster, for future equipment purchases.