The snow is dwindling and you can likely see some of the surface damage the cold winter months have left behind on your asphalt driveway, parking lot of roadway. If you are considering asphalt installation or asphalt repair this spring, do you know what to look for in an asphalt paving estimate?
With so many advertisements, company websites and review websites, it can be difficult to determine what contractors are right for you and your specific job requirements. But rest assured, there is someone out there who can help you.
With 75 years of experience under our belt, our team at Wolf Paving is here to help you understand exactly what to look for in an asphalt pavement quote. Whether you choose to work with us or not, we want to make sure you get the facts and information you need to find the right asphalt contractor for your unique needs.
Here are 6 key things every good asphalt paving estimate should include:
1. On-Site Inspection
Many asphalt contractors offer free paving estimates on their websites to give you a general idea of what an installation or repair may cost you — but it shouldn’t stop there! An experienced contractor will visit your home or business to see the worksite in person. This will help them create a more accurate estimate and help them understand exactly what the project scope may be.
2. Review of Your Needs
To property evaluate your unique needs you should expect prospective contractors to talk with you about your expectations and requirements for the job. A contractor should make sure you understand the steps of the asphalt repair process and that you are aware of exactly what goes into the job. Your voice and opinion matters, so be sure to ask questions and make sure you understand the process from start to finish.
3. Discussion of Water Drainage
This might seem like an odd point of discussion, but it is actually quite important. Drainage is one of the key factors that will affect the longevity of your asphalt pavement. Without proper drainage your asphalt may be susceptible to premature cracking, potholes and damage. Standing water is one of asphalt’s biggest enemies, and proper drainage will ensure that your asphalt will look great for years to come.
4. Discussion of Materials
Ever job has specific requirements, including the type of material that may be used in installation or repair. An experienced contractor should talk to you about the appropriate asphalt materials for your specific job. You may be looking for a standard asphalt driveway or parking lot, or you may be interested in green asphalt solutions. If you are looking to improve water drainage or add green infrastructure to your place of business, porous asphalt pavement may be a good option for you. No matter what your needs may be, make sure you contractor talks about the materials with you.
5. Good Customer Service and Follow Up
When you are looking to hire a contractor, it is certainly not too much to except good customer service. When you are looking for an asphalt paving estimate, your contractor should communicate with you based on your preferences and ensure that you have all of the information you need in a timely manner. Good communication is the key to any good partnership, so make sure you feel comfortable with your contractor. Ensure that they clearly outline the next steps, and the timeframe of the project with you.
6. List of Referrals
Most reputable contractors will have a lot of customer testimonials and referral information to share with you; in fact, many will hand you a list of happy customer statements. I think that is fantastic, but make sure you have to opportunity to call and talk to past customers or drive by the home or place of business where the repair or installation was completed. It’s easy to produce a list of happy customer statements, but what you want are real, unedited reviews. Look online, look on the company website and consider asking for specific job details from your geographic location.
Contact Wolf Paving to learn more about asphalt paving or to have your parking lot, road or driveway paved.
With 75 years of asphalt paving experience, from highways to driveways, we are your local source for all of your asphalt paving needs.
Wolf Paving offers professional paving services from Milwaukee to Madison, and everywhere in between, including all areas around: Sun Prairie, Oconomowoc and Waukesha.
It’s never too early or too late to request a free paving estimate. Call Wolf Paving today. For the Milwaukee area, call us at 262-965-2121. For the Madison area, call us at 608-249-7931.
