Let us talk about asphalt. You need some work done on your driveway or your parking lot here in Lakewood. You are probably wondering how to find a good contractor without getting ripped off. I have been in this business for a long time, and I have seen many things. Here is the straight talk on how to pick the right crew for your asphalt project in Lakewood.
What to Ask Before They Even Quote
When you have a few contractors on your list for your Lakewood asphalt project, do not just jump straight to the price. You need to ask some direct questions to make sure they are legitimate as well as capable. Here is what I would ask them:
- "Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State?" This is not optional for any asphalt contractor. Every legitimate contractor in Washington State has to be registered with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This means they are bonded as well as insured. A general contractor needs a $30,000 bond. A specialty contractor needs $15,000. If they cannot show you proof, you should walk away fast.
- "How long have you been in business, and how long specifically in the Lakewood area?" Experience matters for asphalt paving, especially with our Pacific Northwest weather. You want someone who knows how our soil behaves. They also need to know how the rain affects things. They must know how to build an asphalt surface that will last through those wet winters in Lakewood.
- "Can you provide references from recent jobs, preferably in Lakewood or nearby?" A good asphalt contractor will be proud to show off their work. They will also connect you with past clients. Do not just take their word for it. Call those references and ask about their experience with the asphalt work.
- "Who will actually be doing the work? Your crew or subcontractors?" Some companies use subcontractors for everything. That is not always a problem. However, you need to know who is responsible for the quality of your asphalt paving project. If they use subcontractors, ask about their vetting process for those subcontractors.
- "What is your process for site preparation and drainage for asphalt paving?" This is very important for any asphalt project. Many asphalt failures start with poor prep work underneath. Especially around places like American Lake, where water management is key, you want to hear about proper grading as well as compaction. They should also explain how they will handle water runoff.
- "What kind of materials do you use for your asphalt paving in Lakewood?" Ask about the asphalt mix. Ask where they source it from. Quality materials make a big difference in the longevity of your asphalt paving.
- "What is the warranty on your asphalt work?" You need to get this in writing. A reputable company stands behind its asphalt paving work.
Decoding the Quote for Your Lakewood Asphalt Project: What to Look For
Once you get quotes for your asphalt paving, do not just look at the bottom line. A cheap quote can often mean cheap work. This cheap work will cost you more money in the long run. Here is what a good asphalt paving quote should include:
- Detailed Scope of Work: The quote should clearly outline everything they are going to do for your asphalt paving. This means specifics like excavation depth. It also means base material type as well as thickness. The asphalt layer thickness should be included, usually compacted, not loose. Any drainage work should also be listed.
- Material Specifications: What kind of asphalt mix will they use? How many tons of asphalt? Be careful with quotes that are vague about this information for your asphalt paving.
- Timeline: When will they start the asphalt paving? How long will the asphalt paving take? What is the cleanup process after the asphalt paving?
- Payment Schedule: A small deposit is normal for asphalt paving. However, avoid anyone asking for a huge chunk of money upfront. Payments should typically be tied to completed stages of the asphalt paving work.
- Inclusions and Exclusions: What is included in the price for your asphalt paving? What is not included? Are permits included, or is that your responsibility? Many asphalt paving projects in Lakewood, especially larger ones, will require permits from the city.
- Warranty Information: Again, get the asphalt paving warranty in writing right on the quote.
Red Flags to Watch Out For with Asphalt Contractors
You will run into some shady characters in any trade, including asphalt paving. Here are some classic red flags that should make you stop and think:
- Door-to-Door Solicitations: "We just finished a job down the street and have some leftover asphalt!" This is an old scam. Reputable asphalt contractors do not usually operate this way in Lakewood.
- Cash-Only Deals: Some small businesses prefer cash for asphalt paving. However, if it is the only option, you should be very suspicious. It often means they are trying to avoid taxes. They might also disappear just as easily after the asphalt paving job.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: "This asphalt paving price is only good today!" Do not fall for this. Take your time. Get multiple quotes for your asphalt paving. Make an informed decision.
- No Contract or Vague Contract: If they are not willing to put everything for your asphalt paving in a clear, written contract, do not hire them. This is very important.
- No Local Presence: If their truck has out-of-state plates, or if they cannot provide a local business address, they might be here today and gone tomorrow. Apex Asphalt Solutions is right here in the Lakewood community. We are not going anywhere after your asphalt paving project.
- Lack of Proper Equipment: A professional asphalt job requires heavy machinery. If they show up with a couple of shovels and a pickup truck, that is a problem for your asphalt paving.
Verifying Legitimacy for Your Asphalt Contractor: Do Your Homework
Before you sign anything for your asphalt paving project, do your homework. It only takes a few minutes. This can save you a lot of headaches.
- Check L&I: The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has an online tool. You can use it to verify a contractor's registration as well as their bond as well as their insurance. Use it for your asphalt contractor. Make sure their status is ---