Choosing the right paving company is key to the quality and longevity of your new driveway. Once you've narrowed down your choices and are ready to get some quotes, it’s now time for the contractors to earn your business. Here are 5 important questions to ask (along with the answers you want to hear!) to help you get the job started:

1. How long have you been in business? 

Experience matters when it comes to driveway paving. You really do not want an inexperienced contractor practicing on your driveway. This is a permanent job that will be with your home for years to come. Proper layout, preparation, grading and compacting all take years to perfect with a well established team. 

2. Do you have any local references?

Ask for a list of jobs they have completed in the area and take a drive by to see them. If they cannot provide you with a list of local jobs, beware. Unfortunately, too many homeowners get scammed by out-of-town contractors who perform poor work and then disappear to never be heard from again.

3. Are you reputable?

Maybe you do not ask this question directly but make sure to do your due diligence. Request their state contractor license and an insurance certificate. Check their online reviews and see if they are registered with the Better Business Bureau. A professional contractor will have an excellent online reputation, have the proper license and insurance documents.

4. Can you provide a detailed estimate on writing?

If a company gives you a price to “repave your driveway” and writes a number on the back of a business card and hands it to you, ask them to provide a formal estimate. This should include the size of the driveway, how they will prep the driveway, how thick the asphalt will be installed, what size roller they will compact with, etc. Driveway projects can be completed in different ways and if you are getting multiple quotes, you want to make sure you are comparing apples to apples. A low price can sound like a good deal, but they may be skipping important steps in the preparation and base work which is critical in a long-lasting driveway. A good contractor will provide a detailed estimate and install the driveway to the proper specifications. 

5. What is your warranty? 

Ask about their warranty and more importantly, ask if you can have it in writing. Anyone can say they have a warranty, but if it is not in writing, you will not be able to hold them to it. A newly- installed driveway should last 10 - 20 years. At minimum you should get a 3-year warranty and reputable contractors will offer a 5-year warranty against defects in material or workmanship.

Enjoying Your New Driveway

You invested a lot of time and money into your new driveway so give it the love it needs to maintain integrity for years. Keep it clean and clear with annual power washing, fill any cracks before winter weather arrives, and sealcoat every 2 to 3 years. 

At Maintain It All, we offer expert residential and commercial paving services from crack repairs to sealcoating to full remove and replace installations. With our total-care approach, we even offer maintenance plans for convenient and worry-free upkeep of your new driveway. If you’re in southeastern Pennsylvania, contact us for your free estimate.