If you need a new asphalt parking lot laid or have a construction project that requires new pavement, the search for the best contractor to do the job can be daunting. Your budget may have you looking at the cheapest quote, but as the saying goes, you generally get what you pay for. Finding a contractor from your local community is often the best place to start. You can use the Pavement Network to locate expert service from contractors in your area. To ensure you get the best-finished product, follow these tips.
Tip 1: Ask a Lot of Questions
Whether you have a commercial project or a residential job, always look for a reference or recommendation when researching pavement contractors. Fellow business owners, coworkers or family friends may have required similar service in the past and can tell you about the company they used. You want an asphalt contractor that provides high-quality work at a reasonable or industry-standard rate. Talk to different people about their projects and the cost, but you also want to talk to contractors directly for a quote.
Tip 2: Size Up the Expense
Many contractors will provide a free quote for your project, and you should obtain several before narrowing down your option. The lowest quote shouldn’t be your default choice, either. You don’t want a contractor who is going to use cheap materials and cut corners in your paving project. This will end up costing more in the end with the repairs and maintenance costs of a poorly done job. Find out exactly what you will be paying for and evaluate the total quote against what others have paid for similar work.
Tip 3: Interview the Pavement Contractor
When you hire a contractor, you are the direct boss of the project. Just as you would thoroughly interview a new hire for a business position, interviewing potential contractors gives you a more complete view of what to expect during the project. Ask about certification, training and experience. Ask for references and for prior jobs the contractor completed. Ask for a projected timeline and about any warranty that comes with the work.
Additionally, as a General Contractor, it is extremely important to have a network of subcontractors. Having a full network of people who are specialists in a certain niche will help you close more projects. Once again, asking for references for prior jobs completed is essential. When you have these subcontractors in your network your business offerings will expand.
Tip 4: Look at the Total Package
Your search may bring several possible names to the top of the list, but you can narrow down your options even further. Take a look at the big picture or total package a contractor presents. All of the following elements should be present in your summary analysis:
- Competitive pricing
- Positive consumer reviews (found online or through references)
- Significant experience
- Proof of licensing and insurance
- Competitive project warranty for both materials and workmanship
Tip 5: Focus on Green Solutions
Many contractors are working toward more eco-friendly practices, and this includes asphalt pavers. Companies that try to recycle as many materials as possible for use across different sites or projects are operating according to green solutions. These actions help the environment, but recycled materials and green solutions also equal cost savings for the project owner.
Find a Pavement Contractor Near You
To find a reputable contractor to take over your asphalt job, contact the partners with the Pavement Network. As experts in the industry and using strict standards of best practices, these contractors will deliver exceptional results.