Asphalt and Concrete Paving FAQ. Make a well-informed decision on your next paving contractor.
There are many factors that can affect the price and outcome of an asphalt paving project. Just because a bid is lowest doesn’t always mean it’s the best choice when choosing an asphalt paving contractor. With the following information, Elite Asphalt wants to help you make an informed decision when choosing a paving contractor.
Reliable insurance coverage
Much like auto insurance, many contractors choose the minimum of insurance required by state law. When an accident happens on your property, you want to be protected as much as possible. To be protected, your contractor should at least have the following insurance:
- General Liability, Auto Liability, Worker’s Compensation, and an Umbrella Policy
- Minimum $500,000 per policy coverage ($1-2 million is even better)
Material selection
A majority of asphalt is recycled over and over again. There are many grades of asphalt with different percentages of recycled material in them. Having low-quality asphalt installed can affect the look and longevity of your asphalt pavement. Requesting higher grade asphalt with less recycled material is always a wise choice.
A sufficient crew
Does the contractor have an adequate crew? A typical asphalt paving crew consists of 5-8 workers depending on the size of the job. Being understaffed not only affects the overall outcome of your asphalt project but can even delay the project.
*Insurance note – are all crew members covered under the contractor’s Workers’ Compensation policy?
Is a down payment needed?
Unless your asphalt project is over $10,000, you should not be paying a down payment to the contractor for your asphalt project. Most reputable asphalt paving companies have lines of credit with most material suppliers.
A contractor shouldn’t require any deposits from you. Depositing funds with a contractor may run the risk of misuse of those funds. It’s unfortunate, but there are contractors out there that use deposits to finish paving other unfinished projects.
Asphalt and Concrete Paving FAQ
Much like the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” It helps to think of asphalt paving as a long-term investment. When it is properly installed, asphalt paving can last over 20 years. Saving a few hundred in the short term could lead to thousands of dollars down the road.
Do your research to make an informed decision when choosing your asphalt paving contractor.
Quality equipment matters
What type of asphalt equipment does the contractor have? Is it run down? Machines that break down frequently can delay the completion of your asphalt paving project. The asphalt can also cool too quickly.
Waiting too long to install your asphalt can affect the appearance of your pavement, once finished. Properly maintained equipment is vital to any asphalt paving project.
*Avoid hiring anyone who does asphalt paving by hand. Asphalt paving machines can cost more than $100,000 due to the technology and efficiency behind them. Beware of a contractor who tells you they can pave by hand at the same quality and efficiency of a paving machine.
