Before you begin a residential asphalt project, smooth the path by becoming fully prepared. With the right information, you’ll make the right decisions to get the best work done for you.

Choose the right contractor.

The right contractor can make a huge difference in how smoothly your project goes - as well as how durable it is too. The right contractor should have residential experience in your area, and be familiar with the local terrain. They should also have both business and contractor licenses.

Ask the following questions before choosing a contractor:

• How long have you been in business?
• Do they have references?
• Do they use sustainable methods?
• Are they members of any industry associations?
• Where do they get their asphalt materials from?
  • If it’s not manufactured by them, question how quality is checked. Do they test their asphalt for conformance with specification? What is the specification?
• Do they have their own equipment?
• Are they insured?
• Are they familiar with the local terrain?

Choose the right materials.

Do you know what materials you prefer? While residential projects may not need a specific mix of asphalt, you still may want to decide if you want to choose which mix you use. Have you considered what materials that would be best for the sub base? Asphalt millings are an environmental friendly, as well as being cost-effective, though gravel of different stone types are another popular choice.

Get the area prepared.

Before paving begins, is the area ready? Is the sub base stable? Can you drive heavy trucks on it without the sub base moving or deflecting? Have it looked at to see if grading is needed for proper drainage - the last thing you want is water sitting on your new pavement, causing “bird bath” and weakening the structure. It goes without saying that the area should also be clear of all buildings, automobiles, and other objects.

Get a price.

You’ll want a price before beginning. Measure the area yourself, and get a rough estimate how many materials will be needed by using our asphalt calculator. You can then use that material amount to ask a contractor for a quote (or use national averages).

Pick the right time.

Have you chosen a timeframe for the paving to begin? Timing can affect cost. If you need your residential asphalt project to begin immediately, the price may be higher than a project that can fit into any schedule. Certain seasons are more challenging to pave in - as you can imagine, this can affect cost as well. For the ideal timing, choose warmer times of the year.

Learn proper maintenance.

Proper maintenance will lengthen the life and durability of your asphalt project. It’s better to get schooled on how and what maintenance to perform before it’s needed. This way you’ll do the right steps from the very beginning. 

Once you have these six pieces of information, you’re prepared to get the best quality residential asphalt project possible.

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