How to Choose a Reputable Asphalt Contractor: What Central Valley Property Owners Should Look For
How to Choose a Reputable Asphalt Contractor: What Central Valley Property Owners Should Look For
When an asphalt parking lot, roadway or commercial property needs work, getting multiple estimates makes sense. But choosing a contractor based on price alone can end up being an expensive mistake.
A quality asphalt project depends on proper preparation, materials, equipment, and workmanship. Just as importantly, you want to know the company you hire will still be there if you have questions after the work is complete.
Unfortunately, property owners in the Central Valley sometimes meet contractors who move from area to area offering unusually low prices, complete substandard work and are difficult or impossible to reach afterward.
Before hiring an asphalt contractor, there are a few things worth checking.
1. Ask for References
A reputable contractor should be able to provide references from prior customers, ideally for projects like yours. Do not be afraid to contact those references. Ask about the quality of the work, communication throughout the project and whether the contractor followed through on what was promised.
2. Look at Their History in the Community
There is value in hiring a contractor with an established local track record. A company that has worked in the same community for years has a reputation to protect and a body of completed work you can evaluate. Cal Coating Asphalt has served customers throughout the Central Valley since 1988.
3. Verify Licensing and Insurance
Before work begins, make sure your contractor has the proper licensing and insurance for the project. Professional contractors should be comfortable providing this information.
4. Compare More Than the Bottom Line
When reviewing estimates, make sure you’re comparing the actual scope of work rather than simply looking at the final number.Two proposals with vastly different prices may not be proposing the same solution. Ask what preparation will be performed, what materials will be used, what areas are included and how the contractor intends to address existing pavement problems.
5. Be Careful With a Price That Seems Too Good to Be True
Everyone wants a competitive price. But asphalt work requires labor, equipment, materials, and proper preparation. An unusually low estimate deserves a closer loo. Ask questions and make sure you understand why one proposal is less expensive than another. Saving money upfront doesn’t help if poor workmanship requires the project to be repaired or completed again.
6. Look at Previous Work
Ask to see examples of completed projects. For commercial properties in particular, look for contractors with experience performing the type and scale of work your property requires. An established portfolio can tell you more than a sales pitch.
7. Know Who Will Stand Behind the Work
Your relationship with a contractor should not end the moment the equipment leaves your property. Before signing a proposal, know who you are dealing with, how long they have been in business and who you can contact if you have a question or concern afterward.
Invest in Doing It Right
Whether you’re repairing damaged asphalt, maintaining an existing parking lot or planning a larger improvement project, choosing the right contractor matters. Check references. Ask questions. Compare the actual scope of the proposals. And choose a company with a track record you can verify.
A low bid isn’t a bargain if you have to pay twice.
Cal Coating Asphalt has been serving the Central Valley since 1988, providing asphalt, concrete, striping and ADA upgrade services for commercial and other properties.For questions about your property or to request a free estimate, call 800-339-4424.