Alright, let's talk about hiring an asphalt contractor around here. It's not rocket science, but there are definitely some folks out there who'll take advantage if you're not careful. I've been doing this for a while with Heritage Asphalt Co, and I've seen it all. Here's my no-nonsense guide to making sure you get a good, honest job done.
What Questions Should You Be Asking?
You're the homeowner, you're paying good money, so you've got every right to ask tough questions. Don't feel bad about it. Here are the must-asks:
Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. They should have general liability insurance and workers' comp. Ask for proof. If they hesitate, walk away. Period.
How long have you been in business? Experience matters. A fly-by-night operation isn't going to stand behind their work.
Can you provide local references? Not just a list, but actual contact info for recent jobs. Call those people. Ask if the contractor showed up on time, stayed on budget, and if they'd hire them again.
What's your process for this specific job? Don't just accept a price. Ask them to walk you through the steps. For a new driveway, this means excavation, base preparation, asphalt layers, compaction. For sealcoating, it's cleaning, crack filling, then application. A good contractor will explain it clearly.
What kind of materials do you use? Specifically, what grade of asphalt? What type of sealcoat? You don't need to be an expert, but their answer should sound knowledgeable and consistent.
What's the warranty on your work? A reputable company will offer some kind of guarantee. Get it in writing.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
A quote isn't just a number; it's a breakdown of the work. If it's just a single line item, that's a red flag right there. Here's what a good quote should include:
Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly state what's being done.