Asphalt paving is a huge investment. This is particularly true for large-scale projects, such as commercial parking lots. That is why it is vital to pick an asphalt contractor that can do the job right the first time. Low-quality asphalt paving installation can easily develop potholes and cracks. This can result in more expenses in the long run.  

Are you planning to install a residential asphalt driveway or a commercial asphalt parking lot? Well, here are a couple of things you should consider when hiring a Bay Area asphalt paving contractor: 

Check References 

You should ask the contractor for a list of local references you can contact if the asphalt contractor has experience in your area. Once the contractor gives you a list, make sure you contact some of them. Ask the references about the performance and the quality of the contractor’s job. You should also ask about the cost of the service and the demeanor of their staff. These references can provide you an idea of how the contractor works.  

Ask Questions 

You shouldn’t be scared to ask for the details you want to know. As mentioned above, asphalt paving is a huge investment. If you visit the website of the contractor, it will only provide you so much about what they do and how they do it.  

A reliable asphalt contractor should always be glad to answer any questions you have. This is particularly true if it’s your first time working with them. 

Here are a couple of questions you should ask: 

  • How much does my project cost?  
  • Are you insured? Can you show me proof that you’re insured? 
  • Do you follow safety precautions during the project? What are your safety precautions? 
  • Are your services eco-friendly? 
  • How many years have you been in the industry? 
  • How will you do the project? 
  • Do you have your tools or do you have to rent them? 

It’s a major red flag if the contractor refuses to answer your questions or appears uncertain with their answers. You should not hire a professional contractor until you’ve got all the details you need.  

Do Your Homework 

Before you hire an asphalt contractor, it’s best to do your homework first. You can do this by searching for asphalt contractors in your area and reading any testimonials about them. There are a lot of websites you can use to do this. This includes Yelp, Angie’s List, Google My Business, Facebook, and more. 

It’s also important to consider the star rating of the company. However, other criteria to think about include how the contractor deal with bad reviews and their response time. It is crucial that it’s inevitable to get occasional negative reviews. However, a reliable contractor can easily resolve any complaints from past clients.  

Avoid Door Knockers 

A reliable contractor won’t knock at your door to offer their service. However, fraud contractors like to target houses with ugly driveways.  

Most scammers like to prey on uninformed, young, and elderly homeowners. That is why you should avoid any contractor that knocks on your door to offer asphalt paving services.