Most property owners are now opting for asphalt paving due to its quick assembly, strength, and simplicity. No wonder asphalt is considered the most appealing and cost-effective choice of pavement today.
But remember that there are plenty of factors that can affect the outcome of an asphalt paving project. When choosing the right asphalt paving contractor, opting for the lowest bid isn’t always the best move.
You have to consider the following factors so you can make a well-informed decision.
1. Years of experience
Leaning on the knowledge and experience of professional asphalt paving contractors will help you make wise choices for your home. Those who can communicate in an informed way while delivering great examples of challenging projects are most likely the best partners for your asphalt paving project.
2. Material selection
Not all asphalt is created equal. Since most are recycled over and over again, asphalt has different grades, each with different percentages of the recycled material they contain. Low-quality asphalt can greatly affect the longevity and look of your pavement.
Make sure that the contractor you choose only makes use of high-grade asphalt as this contains less recycled materials.
3. Equipment
Determine the type of equipment that the paving contractors use. If they use machines that often break down, the completion of the asphalt paving project can be delayed. Remember that asphalt cools fast, so waiting too long for the asphalt to be installed will affect the appearance of the pavement once finished.
Moreover, avoid hiring contractors saying they’ll do asphalt paving by hand. The use of asphalt paving machines is costly because of the efficiency and technology behind them. So don’t believe in contractors who promise that you can get same efficiency and quality of a paving machine even if they pave by hand.
An efficient asphalt paving contractor makes use of the most advanced paving machines to ensure a long-lasting, great-looking asphalt pavement.
4. Sufficient crew
Check if the asphalt paving company has a sizable team. Generally, an efficient asphalt paving crew will have five to eight workers. Being understaffed can delay and affect the outcome of the project.
You should also consider the experience of the crew. They should work as a well-trained team to ensure the best possible final driveway.
5. Scope of work
Some scope of work documents can be unclear. If you are getting bids from different paving contractors, a clear scope of work document will make it a lot easier for you to compare the bids of each service provider.
Choose a detailed, accurate scope of work that meets your needs as this lays the foundation for an effective, durable paving project.
6. Insurance coverage
If a contractor gives you a lower price, this usually means that they aren’t insured. So if they figure in an accident, your homeowner’s policy will be used. Asking upfront if the contractor is insured will help you avoid this hidden fee.
To be protected, make sure that the paving contractor has insurance, including Auto Liability, General Liability, an Umbrella policy, and Workers Compensation. They should have at least a $500,000 per policy coverage.
7. Warranty
A reputable contractor will stand by their work. Moreover, they make customer satisfaction their priority. A project warranty will ensure that the work is done to industry standards.
Warranties may vary depending on the project circumstances, so make sure to have all information in writing before the project starts. Asphalt installation experts may also provide tips to extend the life of your newly paved surface, along with a general home maintenance list.
8. BBB Accreditation
Hire an asphalt paving contractor that is an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau or BBB. This helps make sure that they are an upstanding company. Companies that are rated by the BBB on a regular basis speak favorably of the company’s morals, work ethic, and willingness to satisfy clients.
Stay away from companies that have a history of complaints filed in the past. Instead, hire a contractor that maintains an A+ rating because this increases your chances of working with a dependable contractor.
Being aware of these eight factors to consider will guarantee that you’ll get high-quality bids and eventually choose the right paving contractor best suited for your asphalt paving project.
AUTHOR BIO
Ron Shattuck Jr. built Shattuck Paving into a trusted, reputable family business. Ron Jr. learned a lot about the industry and the hard work ethic that Ronald Sr. lived by, and has now followed in his father’s shoes to operate the company and help it grow.
