There are many factors to consider when choosing an asphalt contractor.  Many people end up deferring to price when selecting a contractor for their paving projects, however, there are three keys you should also consider.  In doing so, you can make an informed decision when choosing your asphalt paving contractor.

1. Material Selection

When selecting your asphalt paving contractor you want to ensure that they use the highest quality materials. This will translate to a longer-lasting and nicer-looking end product.

The majority of asphalt is recycled repeatedly and there are also many different grades of asphalt with different percentages of recycled material in them. Working with an asphalt contractor who uses high-quality materials and is willing to discuss different options with you is key.

2. Type of Equipment

You’ll also want to discuss with your potential asphalt contractors the type of equipment they use. If they have old or run-down equipment, breakdowns could delay the completion of your asphalt paving project, costing you precious time. Since asphalt can cool quickly, taking too long in the installation process can cause you to get poor compaction or have cold joints that will lead to premature failure.

You’ll also want to avoid hiring asphalt contractors that do their paving by hand. Asphalt paving machines are incredibly expensive, however, the benefits passed along to you by the technology and efficiency will affect your final project dramatically. Be wary of asphalt contractors who pave by hand, as they cannot guarantee the same level of quality and efficiency.

Properly maintained equipment is imperative for your asphalt. It will make it possible for your paving contractor to quickly and correctly complete your project.

3. Quality Crew

You’ll also want to assure that the asphalt contractor you ultimately work with has a knowledgeable and capable crew.  An asphalt contractor with an understaffed or new crew will poorly affect the quality of your asphalt paving project and can even cause premature failure.

Final Thoughts

While many consumers use price as their main deciding factor in choosing an asphalt contractor, remember there is much more that goes into your paving project.

With the right asphalt contractor, you will get quality materials, equipment, and crew for your job. All of these factors work together to ensure that you have the best and longest-lasting parking lot. This translates into money savings. Properly installed asphalt paving can last over 20 years. Don’t get distracted by a lower initial price and get stuck having to pay thousands of dollars down the road to compensate.

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