Planning a new asphalt driveway, parking lot, or other paved surface is a significant project. The contractor you choose will be responsible for preparing the site, installing the asphalt, and making sure the pavement is properly constructed for its intended use.
Not every asphalt paving contractor handles projects in the same way. Experience, site preparation, drainage, materials, and installation methods can all affect the quality and longevity of the finished pavement. A clear understanding of the work can also help you avoid unexpected costs later.
Before hiring an asphalt paving contractor, take time to compare their experience, previous projects, estimates, and approach to your specific project. Knowing what to look for can help you ask the right questions and choose a contractor that fits your paving needs.
What Should You Look for in an Asphalt Paving Contractor?
The right contractor should have experience with projects similar to yours and be able to clearly explain the work involved. Before making a decision, consider several factors rather than choosing based only on the lowest price.
1. Look for Relevant Experience
Experience is one of the first things to consider when comparing contractors. Asphalt paving involves more than simply laying asphalt over a surface. Proper preparation, grading, drainage, material selection, and compaction all affect how the pavement performs over time.
Ask how long the contractor has been providing asphalt paving services and whether they regularly handle projects similar to yours. A contractor with experience working on residential driveways may have a different level of expertise than one that regularly works on commercial parking lots, HOA properties, or larger pavement projects.
You can also ask about previous projects to understand the type of work the contractor has completed.
2. Review Their Paving Services
Not every asphalt project requires the same type of work. Some properties may need a completely new pavement installation, while others may need repairs or partial replacement.
Look for a contractor whose services match your specific needs. Depending on the property, services may include:
- Asphalt paving
- Asphalt driveway paving
- Parking lot paving
- Asphalt repair
- Crack filling
- Pothole repair
- Sealcoating
- Pavement maintenance
Having related services available can also make it easier to address additional pavement issues identified during the project.
3. Ask About the Materials and Paving Process
A professional contractor should be able to explain the materials and general process they use for your project.
Ask about the asphalt mix, base preparation, grading, drainage repair, compaction, and surface installation. Proper preparation is important because asphalt depends on a stable foundation and adequate drainage.
For example, if the underlying base is weak or water is not draining properly, simply installing a new asphalt surface may not address the cause of the problem.
4. Look at Previous Projects
Reviewing completed projects can give you a better understanding of the contractor’s experience and the types of properties they work on.
Ask whether they can provide examples of similar projects, such as:
- Residential driveways
- Commercial parking lots
- Private roads
- Walkways or access areas
- Asphalt replacement projects
If possible, look at recent projects or project photos rather than relying only on general claims about experience.
5. Check Reviews and References
Online reviews can give you an idea of customers’ experiences with a contractor’s communication, scheduling, workmanship, and project completion. You can also ask the contractor for references from previous customers with similar projects.
When reviewing feedback, pay attention to comments about the quality of work, communication, reliability, cleanup, and how the contractor responds to customer concerns. Looking at feedback from multiple sources can give you a better understanding of what to expect.
Note: American Sealcoating Inc. has a 4.9-star Google rating based on customer reviews. Our team provides asphalt paving, repair, sealcoating, crack filling, pothole repair, and other pavement maintenance services for residential and commercial properties.
6. Understand the Project Timeline
Weather, site conditions, project size, and material availability can all affect an asphalt paving schedule. Before work begins, ask when the project is expected to start and how long the work should take.
You should also ask when vehicles and pedestrians can safely use the newly paved surface. Following the contractor’s instructions after installation can help protect the pavement while it reaches the appropriate condition for use.
A clear timeline also helps property owners plan around parking restrictions, business operations, or other activities.
7. Compare Written Estimates
Get written estimates from multiple contractors before making a decision. Each estimate should provide enough information to understand what is included in the project.
Compare details such as:
- Removal and preparation work
- Base preparation
- Asphalt thickness
- Materials being used
- Drainage work
- Edging or transitions
- Cleanup
- Striping, if applicable
- Warranty information
- Estimated project timeline
Do not automatically choose the lowest estimate. A significantly lower price may reflect differences in materials, preparation, project scope, or other factors.
The goal is to compare similar scopes of work rather than simply comparing the final numbers.
Tip: Ask each contractor the same questions about preparation, materials, drainage, and project costs. This makes it easier to compare estimates and understand what you are paying for.
What Are the Warning Signs of a Poor Paving Proposal?
You should take a closer look at a proposal if it provides very little information about the actual work.
Be cautious when:
- The estimate only gives a total price with no project details.
- The contractor does not inspect the property before quoting the work.
- Drainage is ignored despite existing water problems.
- Site preparation is not explained.
- The contractor cannot explain the recommended materials.
- There is pressure to make an immediate decision.
A professional paving proposal should give you enough information to understand what is being recommended and why.
Still Have Questions About Your Asphalt Paving Project?
American Sealcoating Inc. can help you understand your paving options and discuss the preparation, materials, drainage, and other factors that may affect your project.
We provide asphalt paving services for residential driveways, commercial parking lots, and other asphalt surfaces in Lincolnshire, Des Plaines, Buffalo Grove, and surrounding communities.
Our related services include:
- Asphalt Repair
- Sealcoating
- Crack Filling
- Pothole Repair
- Parking Lot Striping
- Pavement Maintenance
Discussing the project with an experienced contractor can help you understand the work involved and prepare for the next steps.
👉 Call/Text 847-520-3114 to discuss your project and paving options or request a free estimate.