Getting the right paving contractor is essential to ensuring your driveway or other surface is safe and durable. At New Style Driveways, we have two types of driveways, tarmac and gravel. We also complete full garden paving, driveway paving and patio installations.
We know that you can’t just pick any driveway paving contractor so our team have conducted some important tips for you. Use these when hiring a driveway contractor for your home or business.
8 tips for hiring a driveway contractor
The right skills and equipment
Paving a driveway requires specialised equipment and skills. For example, tarmac needs to be laid quickly at around 95-190 degrees to ensure a seamless, smooth finish. It is essential to have the right number of people and quality equipment for the size of the job.
A contractor should have around six to eight people working on a project. When choosing a paving service, pick a contract with an experienced and trained team to ensure the best results.
Proper material use
All tarmac is not created equal. There are different grades of tarmac and each one has a different amount of recycled material. Low-quality one will impact the durability and appearance of your paving.
Some contractors also cut costs by applying a thinner layer of tarmac . Look for a contractor that uses higher grade tarmac with lower recycled material content. Also, a good contractor lays at least 3 inches that compacts to 2 ½ inches.
Attention to preparation
A good contractor does not cut corners. When paving a driveway or other surface, the base is just as important as the surface. A poorly constructed base that is too thin will mean the tarmac will start to erode and buckle, usually because water infiltrates into the surface and causes holes or cracks.
Choose a contractor that takes time to build a proper base. For a new driveway, preparation work usually takes a week before a surface is paved so the base settles.
Insurance coverage
Some contractors offer very low prices for their paving services. This often means there is some sort of scam. Some contractors, for example, can provide a lower price by not carrying insurance. If there is an accident or damage during the project, that means your policy will be used and your premiums will go up as a result. When picking a contractor, always ask for proof of insurance.
Good references
One of the best ways to check the quality of a contractor’s work is to check references. An unreliable company will have consistently poor reviews.
Talk to friends and neighbours if they have experience with contractors. You can also check out projects near you to look at the quality of the contractor’s work.
Accurate quotes
Some contractors will include more material than they need in a quote, and you end up paying more. A reliable contractor will use their experience to give you an accurate quote. Check quotes from multiple contractors to get an idea of a proper estimate.
Also, avoid a contractor that asks you to pay a deposit. In some cases, you may never see this money again. Reputable contractors will use lines of credit with suppliers and never ask for a deposit.
Design considerations
If you are creating a new driveway or another paved surface, it is important to pick a contractor with experience in design. A reliable contractor will consider how the surface will be used.
For example, they will think about how someone might turn or back up on a driveway. They will also think about creating enough space for larger vehicles.
Finally, a good contractor will consider how water runs off the surface to avoid problems with the base.
A written contract
Before starting a project, make sure you have a written contract. Whether for regular facility management like repairs or a new paving project, a contract helps protect you if there is a dispute.
You can also use it to help claim some or all of your money back if the contract does not complete what was agreed.
Professional driveway paving services
It might be tempting to pick a contractor that offers the lowest price. Unreliable contractors will cut corners by not using the right material or enough tar for a project. They will also skip important steps that will ultimately impact the quality and longevity of your paving.
With a reputation built on quality and satisfied clients, New Style Driveways delivers exceptional results. From tarmac driveways to car parks, we specialise in the design and construction of all types of block paving and tarmac paving.
Do you need a reliable driveway paving contractor? Let our experienced professional driveway pavers help you build or repair your driveway. Request a quick quote or call us on 0852139591 for more information!
