A poorly paved driveway with cracks or uneven spots where water keeps pooling is more than just an eyesore. If you’re planning to install a new driveway, asphalt is the best option. It is durable, affordable, and easy to install. Asphalt paving is a specialized job, and only trained professionals should be trusted with it.
To ensure the best results for your project, hire a certified paving company. Here are some practical ways to find a reliable residential asphalt paving company to make the right decision.
Start With Recommendations
The first step is to ask around. With so many paving companies out there, the choices can feel overwhelming. The easiest way to narrow them down is to ask for recommendations from people you already trust: your family, close friends, neighbors, or even coworkers.
Personal referrals are worth more than any ad or flashy website, because people will tell you straight up if they had a good or bad experience.Â
Look Into Their Reputation
If a company consistently delivers poor work, word gets around. That’s why, beyond asking people you know, it’s smart to check online. Look at customer reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp. You don’t have to believe every single review, but patterns do matter. If multiple people are complaining about sloppy residential asphalt surface paving work or projects that didn’t last, that’s a red flag.
Ask About Their Experience
The actual hands-on experience is important. Some paving companies have been around for decades, while others might have just started.Â
Ask direct questions. How many years have you been in the business? What type of asphalt mix do you usually work with? Will you handle traffic control and permits, or is that on me? A skilled contractor should be able to explain things clearly and confidently, without dodging the details.Â
Check if They Offer Micro Surfacing
Microsurfacing is refreshing your driveway instead of tearing the whole thing out. They basically spread a thin protective layer over the top, and it helps cover up small cracks and just makes the whole surface look cleaner. It is giving your driveway a quick makeover instead of a total rebuild. The right contractor should be upfront with you about whether it makes sense or not.Â
Collect and Compare Quotes
Prices can vary a lot, and sometimes the lowest bid isn’t the smartest choice. A super cheap quote might mean the company is cutting corners with materials or labor, and you’ll pay the price later with repairs.
When you get the quotes, pay attention to the details. Do they break down the cost clearly? Is the thickness of the asphalt specified? What about the base preparation? Also, check if a warranty is included. If the quote is vague or missing key information, that’s not a good sign.
Clarify the Timeline
All homeowners desire to have their driveways completed as soon as possible. The schedule is influenced by weather conditions, site preparation and curing periods. A professional contractor will provide you with a realistic start date and approximated time frame, considering the factors. It is always worth waiting a little longer to get quality materials and workmanship.