Whether it’s time for a brand new driveway or some much-needed repairs, it’s good to write some questions down.
There are several options regarding types of materials, how long the driveway will last, and how much it will cost.
Even if you’re no driveway expert, there is certain information you’ll want to be able to provide to the companies you call for estimates.
First Step – Inspecting the Driveway
Take the time to inspect your driveway. Look for cracks, holes, weeds growing, and anything else that doesn’t belong. Take some pictures of the damage and make a list of your findings. Measure the rough square footage of your current driveway. If you’re considering expanding the surface area, now would be the time to put that into the equation. The company will have to send out an estimator to get an accurate estimate.
Keep reading, and we’ll give you ideas to help you make an informed, educated decision on what is a big-ticket household repair or replacement. Get ready to find a contractor. We at 410 Asphalt can answer all the questions to ask your driveway company so you can make an informed decision.
Make Some Calls Ahead of Time
Research driveway companies in your area. After you narrow it down, start making some phone calls and talk to the company.
You can get a lot of information from websites, but asking them some questions will give you a feel for the company. They are professionals, and it should be reflected in their responses.
Tell them you have questions to ask the driveway company, and they should be accommodating. Keep in mind the concrete answers will happen after they inspect and put together an estimate on your upcoming job.
Ask them how long they’ve been in business and how many technicians work in the field. Bigger isn’t always better, but if they only have three or four people, it can throw a wrench in the works if someone gets sick. It takes a team to put in a brand new driveway. If you’re only resealing, it’s a much smaller job requiring less labor.
Ask them about the various material choices and the rough cost per square foot for installation. Asphalt is cheaper than concrete, has a long life span, and tolerates freeze-thaw well.
The company should be able to show you examples of work they’ve done and have some testimonials.
What’s the Time Frame?
Scheduling is an integral part of any construction job, especially if your driveway is torn up. It’s a big, expensive job, and doing your homework ahead of time is in your best interest. Whether you’re looking at a brand new driveway, a renovation, or simply resealing, knowing a firm time frame is essential.
While meeting the estimator, ask how long they expect the job to take. While the estimator is onsite, ask about the crew they hope would be completing your job. It’s essential that it’s the same workers from start to finish.
Reliability is at the top of the list and having experienced technicians working on your job. It’s also vital to have a contractor that’s licensed and bonded. Hiring your out-of- work brother in law for this job is a bad idea. Let him paint the porch swing instead.
Did You Get All Your Questions Answered?
Now that you’ve gathered the information to make an educated decision, you’ll need to consider your schedule. Consider family holidays, birthday parties, or anything else you don’t want to be interrupted because the driveway is under construction. With all those dates in mind, now you’re ready to call 410 Asphalt. We can help bring your vision to life.