Alright, let's talk about hiring an asphalt contractor for your home. It's not rocket science, but there are definitely folks out there who'll try to pull a fast one if you don't know what you're looking for. I've been doing this a long time here in Lakewood, and I've seen it all. You want a good job, a fair price, and no headaches. Here's how you get it.
What to Ask Before They Even Quote
Before anyone even starts talking numbers, you need to ask some basic questions. This isn't about grilling them; it's about making sure they're legitimate and know their stuff.
Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. Don't even consider someone who isn't. Ask for proof of both. A good contractor will have no problem showing you their Washington State contractor license number and their insurance certificates. If they balk, show them the door.
How long have you been in business? Experience matters. A company that's been around for a while, especially in our area, knows the local conditions – like how that heavy rain we get in the fall can affect a fresh pour, or how to deal with the clay soil common in places like the Tillicum neighborhood. New companies aren't necessarily bad, but established ones usually have a track record.
Can you provide references? Ask for a couple of recent residential clients you can call. A reputable contractor will have happy customers willing to vouch for their work. If they can't or won't, that's a big red flag.
What's your warranty? Good work should come with a guarantee. Ask what their warranty covers and for how long. Get it in writing.
Who will actually be doing the work? Your crew or subcontractors? Sometimes companies sub out work. That's not always bad, but you need to know who's responsible and if those subs are also licensed and insured. You want accountability.
What to Look For in a Quote
Once you've got a few contractors who pass the initial sniff test, you'll get quotes. Don't just look at the bottom line. A good quote is detailed.
Scope of work: Does it clearly describe everything they're going to do? For a driveway, this should include excavation (how deep?), base material (what kind, how thick?), asphalt layers (how many, what thickness for each?), compaction, and any drainage considerations. If it just says