How to Choose an Asphalt Paving Company
Asphalt paving is the process of covering a surface, be it parking lots, residential driveways, condo units etc., with asphalt. Homeowners usually have little or no experience about projects like this. Irrespective of how small the paving job may be, it is essential to hire the services of a reputable, competent asphalt paving company to handle the job. The following are a couple of tips that will help you choose the right asphalt paving company for your paving project.
Hire on Merit
Ensure that the asphalt paving company you are selecting is known to offer high-quality services. Also, the company should have an established reputation. Make sure the contractor possesses the proper licensing, bonding and insurance, including liability and workers’ compensation.
Experience
A company with lots of years of experience in executing asphalt paving projects will be able to provide outstanding services compared to one with little experience. Be sure that the company only work with an expert and highly experienced employees. Seek for evidence which shows that workers are experienced. Feel free to enquire about their employee training and selection process. You should also ensure that the company you are hiring is up-to-date about new techniques and developments in the asphalt paving industry.
Leave Your Options Open
Nothing stops you from obtaining proposals from several contractors. Ensure that these asphalt paving companies are all bidding on the same quantity and type of asphalt mix. This will make it possible for you to make a fair comparison. Also, consider the estimated time frame to complete the project, the types of equipment or machinery that will be used, materials and workmanship, and so forth. Don’t be swayed with the cheapest bid. You may end up getting a low quality job.
Go Site Seeing
To have an idea of what you are likely to get when you hire an asphalt paving company, consider paying a visit to sites of other projects that have been previously handled by the contractor. Talk with the clients to know their experience or how satisfactory the project is. The surface of the pavement should look smooth, uniform, and without puddles.
Written Contract
Finally, insists on a written contract or agreement. Avoid verbal agreements. The contract must be well-detailed with both parties understanding what needs to be done, and what to expect on project completion. Put all these into pen and paper.
In addition, ensure that the asphalt paving company is offering some form of guarantee on the project. If possible, include in the contract that the payment will only be due until there is complete satisfaction with the quality of the finished project as agreed.
Remember, only you can ensure that the asphalt paving company you hire is actually complying with the specifications of the project. In order to ensure that you are going to get what you pay for, and avoid any form of disappointment, try as much as possible to inspect and monitor the project as it is being executed.
