Paving a driveway might seem to be a simple task, but it’s more complicated than it looks, and you may wind up with an unsatisfactory job if you don’t ask the right questions. Here are five, specifically, you should ask any paving company before they put down any asphalt.
1. Are There Any Jobs You’ve Done Nearby That I Can Look At?
There’s no better reference than taking a look at previous work. Ask any company you speak to about jobs they’ve done recently near where you live, and then head over to take a look. Make sure that this is recent work, as well: While a well-done driveway or lot will look great for years, there will be wear and tear from the weather and use over time, and you want to be sure you’re giving the company a fair appraisal.
2. Can You Offer Me Any References?
Like any business, a paving company that does its job properly will have plenty of satisfied customers they’ll be happy to refer you to. And if they don’t, you should probably take that as a sign to pick another company.
3. What’s Included in the Bid?
Any respectable contractor will provide you with a bid on the job, or at least a estimate on paper that you can discuss. But not all contractors will itemize it. This could be for any number of reasons: The job may turn out to require more labor, or there may be concerns that aren’t obvious until you dig up the paving and take a look. Either way, ask what the bid includes, and just as importantly, what it may be leaving off and what that will cost.
4. What Will You Be Doing For The Sub-Base?
Just like any good house needs a strong foundation, a good, long-lasting driveway will require a sub-base. There are multiple materials, depths, and designs for a sub-base, from gravel to flagstones. Ask any contractor you’re considering what sub-base they’re planning on putting in, how deep it will be, and why they’re considering that particular material. It’s a good way to know what’ll be happening in your home.
5. What Should I Do to Protect My Yard and Shrubbery?
Paving involves a lot of grit and hard work, and sometimes that can be a little hard on the surrounding plants and the lawn. You should expect any plants that directly abut your driveway or hang over it to be trimmed or removed, unless you do the job yourself first: It’s just too much of a safety risk for the workers. So ask ahead of time about plants so you can make plans or arrange to take care of them yourself, if necessary.
If you need a paving contractor, click here to contact AC Paving. As a family-owned company, we take pride in offering high-quality paving at competitive prices for both commercial and residential bids. We work hard to give you the best work at the best price, and it shows in our customer’s praise on Angie’s List and in testimonials like the one below from Bay Highlands Civic Association in Annapolis, MD…
So, get the answers to your paving questions: Call us today.