5 Things to Ask before Hiring Your Paving Contractor (Plus: Understanding Your Quote)
This article was built for the Des Moines, IA market and the surround area.
Any paving job is an investment. With this in mind, it is essential that you find the most reputable and reliable contractor in the local area. Before hiring anyone for your paving needs, learning more about the service provider is essential. This is when knowing what to ask is essential.
Keep reading to learn more about the top five things to ask your paving contractor before hiring them.
1. Can They Provide an Estimated Price for the Work You Need Done?
If you are like most people, regardless of if you need paving services for a residential or commercial property, the price matters. Before making a commitment to hire a specific paving contractor, you must ask them for a cost estimate. The estimate should include the work and clean-up that may be needed.
Remember, the cost of the job is dependent on several factors. This includes the size of the area being paved, if you need resurfacing or repaving, the materials required, and the amount of time and labor needed.
The paving contractor you are talking to may request photos of the area to be paved or schedule a time to visit the jobsite. However, this is not always necessary. If possible, request a quote in writing, which will help you avoid any future disputes. Keep in mind, it is considered completely acceptable to request a quote from several companies before deciding on the one to hire.
2. Does the Company Have the Proper Licensing and Insurance Coverage?
While this may seem obvious, it is essential that you receive an official answer from the paver you are thinking about using. Professional paving contractors require specific types of insurance for their business. Usually, this covers things like the machines used, general liability coverage, and workers’ compensation (which is required by law in most areas).
Every paving contractor you speak to should be able and willing to confirm they have the necessary licenses and insurance before they start the work. If they cannot do this, it is best to move on and find a different service provider.
3. How Long Has the Company been in Business?
Make sure to ask the paving contractor how long they have been in business. This is going to give you an idea of the experience they have in the field and how much success they have had to this point.
Established businesses that have been providing services for five to 10 years, or longer, may be preferred to one that just opened and began offering paving services a few months ago.
It is also smart to ask the company representative if they have experience providing residential and commercial paving services, depending on the needs you have and the scope of your project.
4. Can the Paving Contractor Give You an Overview of the Process They Use – Start to Finish?
Any experienced contractor should be able to provide you with a step-by-step explanation of the process they use for paving any surface, from driveways and parking lots to anything in between. Also, the contractor should let you know what type of work will be done, how long each step will take, and when you can begin using the recently paved surface again.
You should have a full and complete understanding of the “big picture” behind the process used for your paving project. Be sure to address any issues or concerns that you may have with the timeline proposed by the contractor. Also, the contractor you hire may be able to provide you with additional tips and resources regarding the best way to prevent cracks or other damage from appearing in the future.
5. Does the Contractor Have References?
One of the best ways to determine the quality of the services provided by a paving contractor is by looking at past customer reviews and by asking the contractor for references. Sometimes, the contractor may direct you to their website or a third-party review site, such as Yelp, where you can find out what others have to say about the business and services provided.
Tips for Understanding Your Paving Quote or Estimate
When you decide to move forward and invest in professional paving services, you will likely begin the process by seeking estimates from several local companies. When evaluating the estimate provided by a paving company or contractor, there are certain things that should be included and that you should look for.
These things are described here.
The Initial, On-site Inspection
Many paving contractors offer free estimates and quotes for the paving services needed. You can usually schedule this initial on-site inspection from the company’s website. In other cases, the contractor may request photos of the area being paved or resurfaced, and then provide an estimate based on the images provided.
Having a contractor that comes to the worksite is going to ensure that the most accurate estimate is give and ensure the contractor fully understands the scope of the project.
Overview of What Is Being Done
To properly evaluate the unique needs of your project, the contractor will visit the site. During the visit, they will take notes about what you want done and the steps required in the paving process.
You should make sure the estimate includes all the steps in the process as these will impact the final cost you are charged.
What Drainage
While this may seem like an odd factor to see on your estimate, it is one that should not be overlooked. Drainage is an essential factor that must be considered since it will impact how long your asphalt surface lasts. If drainage considerations are not included on the estimate, be sure to ask about this. Improper drainage for a paved surface can cause premature potholes, cracking, and other damage. Remember, standing water is a huge enemy of any paved surface, which is why your contractor needs to highlight the plans to ensure proper drainage.
Materials to be Used
Every paving job requires specific materials. These materials should be itemized on the estimate provided.
The contractor should also discuss the material options available and help you choose the best option within your set budget. Also, you can choose between standard asphalt paving for parking lots or driveways, or you may want a “green solution.” Obviously, these are going to have different material requirements.
Make sure that you ask your contractor to provide line items on the estimate, including the related costs.
Warranty or Guarantee Information
Any quality paving contractor is going to provide customers with a warranty or guarantee for the services provided. It is important to ask about this if it is not specified. Also, getting the information about the warranty or guarantee in writing, on the estimate, will make it easier for you to compare the estimates you receive from different service providers.
Bonus Tip: Customer Service Considerations
While customer service is not something that can be outlined on your estimate, it is something you need to consider carefully when trying to choose a paving contractor. After all, there is nothing more frustrating than a non-communicative contractor that is working on your home or commercial property.
Be sure you do not hire someone who never shows up on time, who never call, or provide regular check-ins about the progress of the project.
During the initial stages of your project, such as the estimate and scheduling, you can gauge the company’s customer service. If you notice issues with communication before or during the paving process, you can likely feel confident that the issues will only get worse as time passes.
Proper communication is essential when it comes to accurately executing any paving project. Be sure that the contractor provides you with in-depth, clear, and concise written contracts, along with respectful and clear communication.
Another important factor is how organized the contractor is. Remember, when hiring a contractor for any job, you want to make sure they provide excellent customer service, which includes superior organization. This is going to help you avoid frustration and headaches in the future.
Professional Services for Your Paving Needs
It does not matter if you are receiving an estimate for a parking lot paving or driveway paving job, getting an estimate in writing is essential. The process is going to be a key indication of how the rest of the project will go. Also, with a comprehensive estimate and full understanding of the services offered, you can feel confident that you are getting the highest quality services available in the local area.
When you call our team, you can feel confident that you will get high quality, professional services that not only meet your expectations, but exceed them. Keep this in mind to ensure that you get the results desired and that there are no issues with the paving project that is being done. Being informed and knowing what to expect from a paving contractor is the best way to ensure the right professionals are found.
Any paving job is an investment. With this in mind, it is essential that you find the most reputable and reliable contractor in the local area. Before hiring anyone for your paving needs, learning more about the service provider is essential. This is when knowing what to ask is essential.
Keep reading to learn more about the top five things to ask your paving contractor before hiring them.
1. Can They Provide an Estimated Price for the Work You Need Done?
If you are like most people, regardless of if you need paving services for a residential or commercial property, the price matters. Before making a commitment to hire a specific paving contractor, you must ask them for a cost estimate. The estimate should include the work and clean-up that may be needed.
Remember, the cost of the job is dependent on several factors. This includes the size of the area being paved, if you need resurfacing or repaving, the materials required, and the amount of time and labor needed.
The paving contractor you are talking to may request photos of the area to be paved or schedule a time to visit the jobsite. However, this is not always necessary. If possible, request a quote in writing, which will help you avoid any future disputes. Keep in mind, it is considered completely acceptable to request a quote from several companies before deciding on the one to hire.
2. Does the Company Have the Proper Licensing and Insurance Coverage?
While this may seem obvious, it is essential that you receive an official answer from the paver you are thinking about using. Professional paving contractors require specific types of insurance for their business. Usually, this covers things like the machines used, general liability coverage, and workers’ compensation (which is required by law in most areas).
Every paving contractor you speak to should be able and willing to confirm they have the necessary licenses and insurance before they start the work. If they cannot do this, it is best to move on and find a different service provider.
3. How Long Has the Company been in Business?
Make sure to ask the paving contractor how long they have been in business. This is going to give you an idea of the experience they have in the field and how much success they have had to this point.
Established businesses that have been providing services for five to 10 years, or longer, may be preferred to one that just opened and began offering paving services a few months ago.
It is also smart to ask the company representative if they have experience providing residential and commercial paving services, depending on the needs you have and the scope of your project.
4. Can the Paving Contractor Give You an Overview of the Process They Use – Start to Finish?
Any experienced contractor should be able to provide you with a step-by-step explanation of the process they use for paving any surface, from driveways and parking lots to anything in between. Also, the contractor should let you know what type of work will be done, how long each step will take, and when you can begin using the recently paved surface again.
You should have a full and complete understanding of the “big picture” behind the process used for your paving project. Be sure to address any issues or concerns that you may have with the timeline proposed by the contractor. Also, the contractor you hire may be able to provide you with additional tips and resources regarding the best way to prevent cracks or other damage from appearing in the future.
5. Does the Contractor Have References?
One of the best ways to determine the quality of the services provided by a paving contractor is by looking at past customer reviews and by asking the contractor for references. Sometimes, the contractor may direct you to their website or a third-party review site, such as Yelp, where you can find out what others have to say about the business and services provided.
Tips for Understanding Your Paving Quote or Estimate
When you decide to move forward and invest in professional paving services, you will likely begin the process by seeking estimates from several local companies. When evaluating the estimate provided by a paving company or contractor, there are certain things that should be included and that you should look for.
These things are described here.
The Initial, On-site Inspection
Many paving contractors offer free estimates and quotes for the paving services needed. You can usually schedule this initial on-site inspection from the company’s website. In other cases, the contractor may request photos of the area being paved or resurfaced, and then provide an estimate based on the images provided.
Having a contractor that comes to the worksite is going to ensure that the most accurate estimate is give and ensure the contractor fully understands the scope of the project.
Overview of What Is Being Done
To properly evaluate the unique needs of your project, the contractor will visit the site. During the visit, they will take notes about what you want done and the steps required in the paving process.
You should make sure the estimate includes all the steps in the process as these will impact the final cost you are charged.
What Drainage
While this may seem like an odd factor to see on your estimate, it is one that should not be overlooked. Drainage is an essential factor that must be considered since it will impact how long your asphalt surface lasts. If drainage considerations are not included on the estimate, be sure to ask about this. Improper drainage for a paved surface can cause premature potholes, cracking, and other damage. Remember, standing water is a huge enemy of any paved surface, which is why your contractor needs to highlight the plans to ensure proper drainage.
Materials to be Used
Every paving job requires specific materials. These materials should be itemized on the estimate provided.
The contractor should also discuss the material options available and help you choose the best option within your set budget. Also, you can choose between standard asphalt paving for parking lots or driveways, or you may want a “green solution.” Obviously, these are going to have different material requirements.
Make sure that you ask your contractor to provide line items on the estimate, including the related costs.
Warranty or Guarantee Information
Any quality paving contractor is going to provide customers with a warranty or guarantee for the services provided. It is important to ask about this if it is not specified. Also, getting the information about the warranty or guarantee in writing, on the estimate, will make it easier for you to compare the estimates you receive from different service providers.
Bonus Tip: Customer Service Considerations
While customer service is not something that can be outlined on your estimate, it is something you need to consider carefully when trying to choose a paving contractor. After all, there is nothing more frustrating than a non-communicative contractor that is working on your home or commercial property.
Be sure you do not hire someone who never shows up on time, who never call, or provide regular check-ins about the progress of the project.
During the initial stages of your project, such as the estimate and scheduling, you can gauge the company’s customer service. If you notice issues with communication before or during the paving process, you can likely feel confident that the issues will only get worse as time passes.
Proper communication is essential when it comes to accurately executing any paving project. Be sure that the contractor provides you with in-depth, clear, and concise written contracts, along with respectful and clear communication.
Another important factor is how organized the contractor is. Remember, when hiring a contractor for any job, you want to make sure they provide excellent customer service, which includes superior organization. This is going to help you avoid frustration and headaches in the future.
Professional Services for Your Paving Needs
It does not matter if you are receiving an estimate for a parking lot paving or driveway paving job, getting an estimate in writing is essential. The process is going to be a key indication of how the rest of the project will go. Also, with a comprehensive estimate and full understanding of the services offered, you can feel confident that you are getting the highest quality services available in the local area.
When you call our team, you can feel confident that you will get high quality, professional services that not only meet your expectations, but exceed them. Keep this in mind to ensure that you get the results desired and that there are no issues with the paving project that is being done. Being informed and knowing what to expect from a paving contractor is the best way to ensure the right professionals are found.