Not all quotes are created equal. When comparing quotes for your new asphalt driveway, it’s important to look at more factors than just the price. In order to make sure you’re comparing asphalt quotes fairly, you’ll want to consider the overall quality of the project, from the type of mix the contractor will use to the customer service you’ll receive. First, let’s break down what’s typically included in an asphalt driveway quote.
What’s Included in an Asphalt Driveway Quote?
When you receive a quote for your asphalt driveway, it should contain a few basic elements:
An inspection of your current driveway or driveway site
A breakdown of what the contractor recommends, plus, a clear explanation of how they’re going to install the driveway
The materials they’ll need to get the job done.
1. Free Driveway Assessment
An on-site inspection will be conducted by Central Asphalt to get the scope of the project. We will check for any potential drainage issues, assess how much grade preparation will be needed, and determine the best mix for your application.
2. Explanation of What’s Needed
With a clear understanding of your project, we will explain the steps of the asphalt installation procedure. You can and should voice your questions and comments to make sure you understand the process, what’s required at each stage, and your expectations.
3. Asphalt Mix and Methods
Based on our assessment of the site and the size of your asphalt driveway, Central Asphalt will recommend the mix that will best suit your needs. Your quote will contain the estimated cost of the materials to be used as well as the labor and methods used to install them.
What to Look for when Comparing Asphalt Quotes
Once you’ve collected clear estimates from multiple contractors, you can then move on to comparing asphalt driveway quotes. To have a fair comparison, the quotes should be based on similar specs for your project, so you can focus on where they differ in terms of the contractor’s approach, reputation, and any extra details like better quality asphalt or attentive customer service.
1. Job Specifications and Insurance
To judge each quote fairly, make sure the basic specifications of your project are equal — such as the same thickness of asphalt over the same area, with a similar method for preparing the grade. You should also check that all contractors carry proper insurance in case something were to go wrong on the job site.
2. Contractor Recommendations
Compare each contractor’s recommendations for your asphalt driveway project, particularly their specific solutions for how to resolve potential drainage problems, as this is an important factor of asphalt driveway durability.
If one contractor suggests a different approach or skips a step, ask them to explain. They probably have a good reason for making their recommendation, but when comparing asphalt quotes, it’s good to be thorough.
3. Customer Reviews
Check the reviews included in each quote to make sure all contractors are backed by positive customer referrals that show previous jobs were completed effectively and in a timely manner, with high quality workmanship.
4. Quality Control
While most contractors will be able to do the basics of the paving job, only a few will have complete control over the mixes they use. Paving contractors who are also asphalt suppliers can create asphalt mix designs to meet your project needs, ensuring you receive the best results that will last you many years. Central Asphalt is both a paving contractor and asphalt supplier, which means we have complete quality control of all materials used, along with the final product. This means we are able to ensure that all asphalt design specifications are being met.
5. Asphalt Driveway Maintenance Plan
Finding a reputable, trusted contractor and asphalt supplier will establish an important relationship. They’ll be your first call for any patching, sealing, or repair your driveway may need, and can help you maintain your asphalt driveway to keep it looking great for years to come.
6. Follow-Up
A customer service representative should follow up with you after you’ve received a quote to go over any other questions you may have. They’ll be open to hearing any concerns about the job and will be able to set-up your asphalt driveway installation when you're ready.
What Do You Think?
Don’t discount your gut instinct when comparing asphalt quotes. Your impressions matter. You want your new asphalt driveway to be installed by someone you trust, and ultimately you have the final say when it comes to which bid you will choose. By comparing asphalt quotes carefully, you can choose the contractor who will offer you the best value and deliver a high quality asphalt driveway that will last you a long time.
Not sure where to start when it comes to asphalt paving quotes? Let Central Asphalt help. We always develop our quotes with our clients’ best interests in mind. That means an asphalt surface that will last you years. Get in touch with us to learn more.
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