Looking for someone to pave your driveway or fix up your parking area? It's a big investment, and you want to make sure you're hiring the right crew. I've been doing this for a long time here in Redmond, and I've seen my share of good jobs and, unfortunately, some real duds. Here's what you need to know to pick a solid asphalt contractor.
What to Ask Before They Even Quote
You wouldn't buy a car without asking questions, right? Same goes for your driveway. Don't be shy; a good contractor expects you to ask. Here are the must-haves:
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State? This is non-negotiable. Ask for proof. A legitimate contractor will have no problem showing you their Washington State contractor license number, proof of bonding, and general liability insurance. If they hesitate, walk away.
- How long have you been in business? Experience matters. Someone who's been around for a while, especially in our specific climate with all the rain we get, knows how to handle the challenges.
- Can you provide references? And don't just take their word for it. Call those references. Ask about their experience, if the job finished on time and on budget, and if they'd hire them again.
- What's your warranty? A reputable contractor will stand behind their work. Understand what's covered and for how long.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your crew or subcontractors? Sometimes, a company will bid a job and then sub it out. That's not always a bad thing, but you should know. If it's subs, ask about their experience and if they're also insured.
- What's the timeline? Get a clear idea of when they can start and how long the project will take, barring unforeseen weather delays, which are always a possibility around here.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
You'll probably get a few quotes, and they can look wildly different. Don't just compare the bottom line. Dig into the details:
- Is it written and detailed? A good quote isn't just a number on a napkin. It should clearly outline the scope of work: what they're doing, what materials they're using (e.g., specific asphalt mix, base material type and depth), and how they'll prepare the site.
- Breakdown of costs: Does it itemize things like excavation, base prep, asphalt material, labor, and clean-up? This helps you understand where your money's going and compare apples to apples between bids.
- Specifics on thickness: For a new driveway, how thick will the asphalt be? What about the aggregate base underneath? For Redmond's sometimes soft, clay-rich soil, a solid, well-compacted base is crucial for longevity.
- Payment schedule: A reasonable payment schedule usually involves a down payment (often 10-20%), progress payments, and a final payment upon satisfactory completion. Be wary of anyone asking for a huge upfront payment.
- Permits: Does the quote mention who's responsible for pulling any necessary permits? For most residential driveways, you might not need one, but for larger projects or if you're altering drainage, you might. Clarify this.
Red Flags: Warning Signs to Watch Out For
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Here are some big red flags:
- Door-to-door solicitations: Someone knocks on your door saying they just finished a job down the street and have extra asphalt? Hard pass. Legitimate contractors don't usually operate this way.
- Cash-only deals or huge upfront payments: This is a classic scam tactic. Always pay by check or credit card so there's a paper trail. And as I said, a massive upfront payment is a no-go.
- No written contract or vague details: If they can't put it in writing, they can't be held accountable. Every detail should be in the contract.
- Pressure tactics: