Several factors can impact the results and costs of asphalt paving. Grabbing the cheapest contractor is not always the best option when selecting an asphalt paving firm. Below are pointers that can help you make an informed decision:
Insurance
Similar to vehicle insurance, contractors generally buy no more than the minimum coverage that state law dictates. When accidents occur inside YOUR property, you want as much protection as you can get. To make this possible, your contractor must have General and Auto Liability, and Workers Compensation insurance, plus an Umbrella policy, with a minimum worth of $500,000 for every policy. For your complete protection, the contractor should be covered by General Liability and Auto Liability insurance, and Workers Compensation insurance, with an Umbrella policy, with a minimum per-policy worth of $500,000. To ensure your full protection, your prospective contractor needs Workers’ Compensation insurance, General Liability and Auto insurance, plus Umbrella coverage, at a minimum of $500,000 for each policy.
Material
Asphalt is often recycled over and over. There are several grades of asphalt with various proportions of recycled material in them. Low quality asphalt compromises your asphalt pavement’s appearance and longevity. Higher grade asphalt with a minimum of recycled material is always the smarter option.
Equipment
It’s important to know the type of asphalt paving equipment used by your potential contractor? Is it worn-out? Anything that breaks down often can stall the completion of your project. As well, take note hat asphalt can cool quickly. Taking a while to install the asphalt can make your pavement look less pleasing upon completion. Well-maintained equipment is crucial to any asphalt paving project.
Needless to say, avoid hiring people who use their hands for asphalt paving. Asphalt paving machines often cost above $100,000, a price necessary for the technology and efficiency they are known for.
Manpower
Is the contractor well-staffed? A regular asphalt paving crew has about 5-8 workers, depending on the size of the project. An understaffed crew won’t only reduce the overall quality of your asphalt paving, but it can also delay the completion of the project.
Down Payment
Unless your project is worth above $10,000, you are not supposed to make a down payment to the asphalt paving contractor. Most good asphalt paving companies maintain lines of credit with various material suppliers. They are not supposed to require deposits from their clients. If you deposit funds with a contractor, there’s a risk that your funds will be misused. Sadly, some contractors use deposits to complete other asphalt projects.
As the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. Your asphalt paving project definitely a long-term investment. When properly installed, asphalt paving can last for more than two decades. Saving a small amount of money for short-term benefits can cost you a lot In the long term. Be sure you do your homework and ask contractors questions to make an educated decision as you choose your asphalt paving contractor.