The visual curb and functionality of a parking lot, driveway, or even a private road are paramount. But what keeps them firm and resilient with a significant amount of wear and tear on a minute-by-minute basis?
Asphalt.
It’s no surprise that asphalt is currently regarded as the most pleasing and cost-effective paving surface. With an ever-increasing volume of paving contractors in the North American market, there’s a dearth of experienced ones; however, numerous elements factor in, influencing the outcome of an asphalt paving project.
When selecting the best asphalt paving contractor, going for the lowest bid is not always the best option. Consequently, a substandard paving job would lead to uneven surfaces, premature wear and tear, and poor drainage, which could transform into both expansive and expensive repairs.
As a consequence, you must evaluate the aspects discussed to make an informed conclusion.
1. Material Selection & Thickness
Not all asphalt is made equal. Asphalt comes in many grades, each having a varying amount of recycled material. This is because most asphalt is recycled repeatedly. Low-quality asphalt can significantly reduce the longevity and appearance of your surface.
Make sure the contractor you pick only uses high-grade asphalt, which contains fewer recycled components. This extends the life of the pavement while lowering maintenance costs. Besides, inquire as to where the company secures its materials, as well as what type of components are being used on your project and why.
If your parking lot contains truck traffic, ensure the material thickness is suitable for the vehicle’s weight. Moreover, the climate and soil play a considerable role in influencing base preparation. This acts as a catalyst in determining the asphalt thickness and the form of sealant required to complete the job.
For instance, in colder regions, such as Canadian provinces and their cities, such as Vancouver or Winnipeg, the freeze-thaw sequences may sometimes wreak havoc on poorly laid material. As a consequence, local asphalt paving contractors Vancouver WA, would have to be called upon.
2. Equipment & Crew Size
Weather, crew size, and the quality of the contractor equipment can all cause delays in project scheduling.
Determine whether the asphalt paving company has a sizable crew. An efficient team typically consists of five to eight individuals. Understaffing can cause project delays and have an impact on the final output. It is ideal for you to have more paving crews, for they can schedule many jobs and complete them faster.
The newer the technology, the better the completed output and the fewer delays caused by mechanical faults. An effective asphalt paving contractor uses the most current paving machines to create long-lasting, robust asphalt pavement.
It’s an understandable fact that equipment will break down over time. So, the initial line of questioning must begin with:
Does the company have adequate paving machines, rollers, and trucks to handle this?
3. Industry Experience
One of the most crucial factors to consider when picking an asphalt paving contractor is their previous experience in your area. If they have paved roads or driveways similar to yours, their methods should work well for you.
If the asphalt paving contractors have little or no expertise in paving roads in the local vicinity, choosing them could lead to unavoidable circumstances. So, ask them about the nature of paving projects they’ve administered, whether municipal, commercial, or residential.
4. Read Reviews from Previous Jobs
Examining prior job reviews is an excellent approach to learn about an asphalt paving company’s reputation in the market. The Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Angie’s List are valuable resources for finding consumer feedback.
Look for reviews that discuss the quality of the work and whether it was done on schedule. Make sure to read both positive and negative reviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of the firm.
5. Scope of Work
Some scope of work documents may be unclear. If you receive quotes from various paving contractors, having a precise scope of work paper will make it much easier to compare the bids of each service provider.
Choose an intricate job that aligns with your requirements, as this is the cornerstone for a successful, long-lasting paving contract.
So, what should you look for?
- Total square yards, or square feet
- The total thickness of asphalt when it is thoroughly compacted
- Area of construction or maintenance
- Identical repair processes
- Repairing or milling
- Payment terms
- Excluded items
- Contractual period
6. Business Licenses & Insurance
Before hiring an asphalt paving contractor, make sure to inquire about their company licenses and insurance information. If they refuse to show them, that’s a major red flag. You must know whether they are accountable for anything that occurs as a result of the work being done.
You should also check the licenses and certificates of everyone who works on your site. In a way, you would not want an inexperienced worker sent in under the name of someone else. Everyone involved must have the expertise required to accomplish quality work; otherwise, everyone, along with the project, suffers.
7. Written Contract Prior To The Job
Before beginning any work in and around the premises, an asphalt paving contractor should quote you a final fee. This way, there will be no misinformation or misrepresentation when you receive a higher-than-expected bill.
It is also critical that everything is documented in writing since it protects both parties if something goes wrong while the task is being completed. Remember, verbal communication should be avoided whenever possible. Issuing contracts based on even the simplest of handshakes can jeopardize the entire project.
8. Hire Based On Preferences
Different asphalt paving firms specialize in various sorts of operations. Some thrive in commercial work, while others focus on residential projects. Before you begin your search, determine precisely what needs to be done and then locate asphalt paving firms that specialize in those services. This will ensure that everyone understands what is expected of them, resulting in greater performance in the long run.
9. Optional Pre- & Post-Services
It can be tough to oversee all aspects of a project, so it can be beneficial to engage with an asphalt paving firm that also offers parking lot maintenance services. This will save you money and time, as you won’t need to step away and find someone else.
10. Invest In The Best
You can indeed find cheaper asphalt paving companies. Still, it is crucial to know that even when more affordable solutions are available, some businesses may sacrifice quality to keep costs low.
Remember that exceptionally low costs may indicate low-quality work as well as shoddy business methods.
Final Thoughts
You shouldn’t rush to hire an asphalt paving contractor. It’s a significant investment, not just in terms of money but also in the safety, value, and appearance of your property.
Experience, reputation, materials, contracts, and following the rules for the environment are all critical factors that will affect how long your pavement lasts. Every job that a reliable contractor works on is open, professional, and well-crafted. They answer all of your inquiries, provide you with honest quotes, and treat your property with care.
