You need new asphalt, or maybe a repair, and you're looking for a contractor. It's not always easy to tell the good ones from the bad, especially when everyone's got a nice-looking website these days. I've been doing this for a long time, and I've seen plenty of folks get taken for a ride. Here's how you make sure that doesn't happen to you.
Start with the Right Questions
When a contractor comes out, don't just stand there nodding. Ask questions. It's your property, your money. You've got every right to know what's going on.
What's your process? Get them to walk you through it, step-by-step. For a new driveway, that means excavation, base prep, drainage, and then the asphalt layers. If they skip over base prep, that's a red flag right there. The base is everything.
What kind of materials do you use? Specifically, ask about the asphalt mix. There are different grades. You want to know you're getting a durable mix, not something cheap that'll crack in a year. Also, ask about the aggregate size and binder content. A good contractor will be able to explain it without blinking.
How thick will the asphalt be? For a residential driveway, you're usually looking at 2-3 inches of compacted asphalt on top of a well-prepared base. Anything less, and you're asking for trouble down the line.
What about drainage? This is huge, especially with our heavy rains here in Decatur. Water is asphalt's worst enemy. They should have a plan for how water will run off your driveway, away from your house or garage. If they don't mention it, bring it up.
Who's actually doing the work? Is it their crew, or are they sub-contracting it out? There's nothing inherently wrong with subs, but you want to know who's ultimately responsible for the quality.
Can I see your license and insurance? Don't just take their word for it. This is non-negotiable. No license, no insurance, no deal.
Decoding the Quote
You'll get a few quotes, and they might look completely different. Here's what to scrutinize:
Detailed Breakdown: A good quote isn't just a single number. It should break down the costs: excavation, base material, asphalt (by tonnage or square footage with thickness specified), labor, equipment, and any extras like drainage work or sealing. If it's just a lump sum, ask for more detail.
Scope of Work: Does it clearly define what's included and what's not? Are they removing existing material? Hauling it away? What about grading? Make sure everyone's on the same page.
Warranty: What kind of warranty do they offer on their work? Get it in writing. A year is pretty standard for residential paving, but some might offer more.
Payment Schedule: Be wary of anyone asking for a huge upfront deposit. A reasonable deposit (10-30%) is fine, but you shouldn't be paying the full amount until the job is complete and you're satisfied.
Red Flags You Can't Ignore
Some things should make you walk away, no questions asked.
Door-to-Door Solicitations: