Is your driveway or parking lot looking a little worn? A smooth, fresh layer of asphalt can transform the aesthetics of your space – and make it safer. But you don’t want to choose the first contractor you come across to do the job.
Instead, review these six items you should consider when choosing an asphalt contractor!
1. Ample Experience
Any reputable asphalt repair guide will tell you to choose a company that has experience. While you could save money going with a novice contractor, you’ll pay the price down the road.
Shoddy asphalt jobs will deteriorate quickly because workers will cut corners. You’ll notice cracking and unevenness that can lead to standing water. Instead, hire an asphalt contractor with several years of experience.
Ask what types of training employees undergo to ensure a quality job. And ask what techniques and processes go into their work. A company with many years under its belt will have established a strong reputation that indicates quality.
Along those lines, check to make sure the company offers the services you need. Do you need a driveway resurfaced or resealed, or are you interested in something different?
Specify your needs to confirm the company has the necessary expertise to complete your job. Many companies will offer services like:
- Asphalt paving and resurfacing
- Asphalt milling
- Crack sealing and pothole repair
- Asphalt cleaning
Companies should be able to explain their processes for every job. Ultimately, you’ll want a company that can create durable surfaces for you!
2. Recommendations
You want reliable paving services to handle your job. One of the best ways to vet a potential contractor is by looking at recommendations. While you can look at a company’s website to find testimonials, looking through a search engine is the better choice.
Reviews will be less biased. You’ll be able to note any common red flags, too, like poor workmanship. And if a company doesn’t have many reviews, that can be a sign that you should look for a more experienced option.
You can also ask the company for referrals. In this instance, they should be willing to give you the names of a few recent customers to contact. Ask these past customers about their experiences with:
- Job quality
- The company’s efficiency and professionalism
- Overall satisfaction
Sometimes direct interactions can be the best way to get specific answers. Steer clear of any contractors unwilling to provide referrals.
3. Insurance and Licensing
You don’t want to be stuck paying the medical bills if someone is injured on your property. But if you hire a contractor without the right insurance, you could be. It’s critical to verify with a contractor that their workers are covered and that they are all licensed to do business.
A company should have workers’ compensation and property damage coverage. Workers’ compensation takes care of accidents and injuries endured on the job. The owner won’t be liable.
Also, check for general liability insurance. This protects the equipment the workers are using and, as a result, the homeowners.
Beyond insurance coverage, a reputable company should have a contractor’s license and a business license, too. They may need safety certifications, too.
4. The Right Equipment
Be sure the company has the equipment to provide residential paving solutions. Whether you’re planning to move or stay put, you should be confident the company you hire can tackle the scope of the job. Typically, asphalt paving companies will need:
- Sweepers
- Dump trucks
- Motor graders
- Asphalt pavers
- Rollers
A larger company may be better positioned to handle bigger projects with more advanced milling equipment, for example. Smaller operations, by contrast, might not have the means to cover bigger areas.
A reputable company should be able to tell you what equipment they’ll use for your particular job. If they can’t, it’s fair to question their expertise and take your business elsewhere.
5. Estimate Pricing
When choosing asphalt company options, it pays to compare prices. You’ll help your budget if you’re able to secure estimates from at least three companies.
With several estimates, you won’t be locked into the first place you visit. And you may be able to leverage an estimate from one place to get a better one elsewhere.
Ask for itemized estimates. For example, will a company haul away debris and provide seal coating?
Then you can compare what is included in each package. Estimates should include information such as:
- Job scope
- Project timeline
- Information about the contractor
- Labor costs
- Materials and processes
- Unusual situations that could impact the price
Remember that it’s always fair to ask for more specifics. If you don’t understand what a particular cost means, the company should be able to explain it to you. Sometimes bundling different services together can result in a better deal.
You also may be able to score cost discounts depending on your age or military background. If you plan to use a company for recurring business, some companies will offer better deals for a commitment, too. It never hurts to ask!
6. Communication Skills
Don’t overlook the value of clear and professional communication skills when you’re choosing a contractor. The last thing you want to deal with is a company that doesn’t return phone calls promptly. Likewise, an unfriendly communication style can be a turn-off when you’re hoping for a smooth process.
Gauge a potential company’s communication skills through initial interactions. They should be eager to earn your business. And they should be prompt with all follow-ups and thorough with answers to questions.
Further, a good company will go above and beyond. They should be able to offer asphalt paving tips and maintenance suggestions to help you keep your new surface in good shape. They also should work with you to determine a payment plan that works for your budget.
Choose the Right Asphalt Contractor
The best asphalt contractor will be a clear communicator with a track record of satisfied customers. Look for companies that will provide free and competitive estimates. And be sure that they have the licensing and insurance to do the job safely.
At American Asphalt, we provide Middle Tennessee residents and business owners with the most professional asphalt projects. With over two decades of experience, we have the expertise to do any job right. Contact us today to learn more!
