Depending on the size and scope of a project, an asphalt paving project can be quick and easy. In some circumstances, an entire job can be completed in a single day. However, complications can easily arise, especially if the contractor you choose isn't prepared. So, we've got five areas to consider and inquire into, when choosing a contractor. Their ability to anticipate and handle these challenges will determine whether they are the right choice.
Be Prepared For:
1. Soft Subsoil
A successful asphalt lay requires a stable foundation that can last through the years. A patch of soft subsoil under your asphalt driveway or roadway can quickly lead to cracks or potholes, forcing expensive repairs. Fixing an unexpected patch of soft soil may add a bit to the initial cost of an asphalt paving project, but it will prevent much larger costs later on.
2. Drainage
Even with a stabilized base, water may seep under asphalt paving and weaken its substructure. This, again, leads directly to increased repair costs far earlier than should occur. Your paving contractor should build up the edges of your asphalt, to ensure they're protected from water damage.
3. Weather
Mother Nature can upset even the best-planned construction projects. A significant rainfall at the wrong time during an asphalt lay, for example, can wreck a stabilized base. Similarly, unexpected freezes or thaws can cause significant delays. Such events are rare, and unfortunate, but sometimes unavoidable. Your paving contractor should always watch the forecasts, and have contingency plans for inclement weather events.
4. Subcontractor Delays
If you have more than one group working on a construction project, a missed deadline can also create challenges and delays. If one contractor is digging the foundation, and another laying the asphalt, a delay from Group A ultimately slows Group B as well. A single-source paving contractor is usually a better choice, both in terms of cost-savings and overall efficiency.
5. City Bureaucracy
Every city has red tape, and your contractor must know the local regulations. Otherwise, you could end up with a heap of trouble if you have the wrong paperwork, or the work isn't up to local code. Be wary of out-of-state contractors, or those without sufficient experience when dealing with local guidelines.
While at times unavoidable, hiring an experienced and knowledgeable contractor is key to ensuring you get the best product for your investment. These 5 challenges are a few of the common concerns that arise when laying asphalt paving. What others have you faced that made an impact on the timing and overall success of past projects?
