The paving work is generally performed using large equipment and requires exceptional skills ranging from careful planning to appropriate implementation, each step requiring attention. The most important consideration is to hire a paving contractors who specializes in the type of paving you are looking for. But there are many other aspects to consider. Here are the points to check before hiring a paving contractor.
Check the reputation of the paving contractor
Paving work is often expensive and should be done in such a way that it will last for many years. But when you hire the first paving contractor you come in, you can end up with a hefty bill and substandard work. Hence the importance of learning about the reputation of the paving contractor start by touring your neighborhood, and if you find residences with beautiful paving, ask homeowners which paving company they did business with, if they were happy with the services they received, and if they recommend that company.
Another easy way to check the reputation of a paving company is to search the internet. Indeed, it is possible to find the opinions of customers of the company on search engines like Google. You can also do a search on the website of the Office de la protection (OPC) to see if the entrepreneur has been the subject of complaints from former customers. Finally, make sure that the contractor has the necessary expertise to do the paving work, whether it is asphalting or laying interlocking paving stones.
Make sure the company is registered with the RBQ
To operate legally, a paving contractor must be registered and his number should appear on the tender and the contract.
Check that the paving contractor has insurance
In order to protect you in the event of damage to your home or that of neighbors, but also in the event of injury, it is essential that the paving contractor have civil liability insurance.
Find out about the guarantees offered by the paving contractor
A competent paving contractor will offer a guarantee to his clients regarding the quality of the work and the materials used. Ask what is guaranteed, for how long, and demand that this guarantee be included in your contract. You will also want to know what will happen if there is a delay or postponement.
Request a contract from the paving contractor
To protect yourself in the event of a problem, require the contractor to provide you with a written and detailed contract, which includes the name and address of his company as well as its number from the mention liability insurance, the warranty offered, the start date of the work as well as the approximate end date, the cost and terms of payment, a detailed description of the work and the materials that will be used, etc. So choose best contractor for your home improvement maintenance.
Asphalt driveway: everything you need to know
The front of your house is the first element that catches the eye of passers-by. It is therefore normal that you want to make it a beauty with nice landscaping and lick residential paving. Thinking about an asphalt driveway, but would like to learn more about this type of paving?
Here’s everything you need to know about asphalt paving, from its pros and cons to its price, including the steps in how to build it. With all of this information, you will be able to determine if the asphalt driveway is exactly what you need.
The advantages and disadvantages of an asphalt driveway
Like anything, the asphalt driveway comes with a lot of advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage of the asphalt driveway relates to its price. In fact, asphalt offers unbeatable value for money and is considerably less expensive than concrete and paving stones. In addition, it is a strong and durable material that provides a uniform and smooth finish. It is also non-slip, waterproof, and easy to maintain, adapted to the Quebec climate, and known to prevent the proliferation of moss. Finally, its installation work usually takes less time than that of the concrete driveway. However, asphalt has a lifespan of between 10 and 15 years depending on the level of maintenance and quality, 20 years at most, which is shorter than concrete (around 30 years) this material is also more prone to potholes and must be maintained several times per season to prevent breakage associated with freezing and thawing. Finally, the asphalt driveway is offered in only one color, black, and does not really allow for customization. This is why many people choose an asphalt driveway with paver inserts, to enhance the aesthetic appearance of their driveway.
How to choose the right entrepreneur
Choosing your general contractor for the construction of your asphalt contractor is an important step that can make all the difference. Avoid a hefty bill and poorly executed work by requesting multiple quotes for the necessary paving work on your property.
Good to know: it does not require contractors to hold a license for residential work. When a company has a valid number, it may indicate that it is also doing industrial and commercial work. It is a way of knowing the seriousness of the entrepreneur. In addition, before making your final choice, check the lawsuits and reports to the Consumer Protection Office (OPC) and customer reviews on the web. Important reminder: before starting work, be sure to draw up a contract and sign it with the contractor. Write down the start and end dates of the planned work, the type of asphalt used, and the specifics of the work to be carried out according to the standards (excavation, the slope of the entrance, etc.), the payment and warranty conditions and any other relevant information. If the entrepreneur asks for a down payment, you might ask for a small amount.
When to build your asphalt driveway
The ideal time to have your driveway built in asphalt is the hot season, from the beginning of June to the end of September. From mid-December to mid-April, it is risky to do this work, since the ground can sag unevenly, due to the thaw.
Tip: If a contractor offers to do the work out of season, it may be a red flag as to the seriousness and quality of his services. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to seek the advice of an expert or other contractors.
The stages of construction
The construction of an asphalt driveway usually takes less time than the work associated with the concrete pavement. However, several weeks should be allowed for the completion of the work in due form. Here are the steps in the construction of residential asphalt paving:
Step 1: excavation
The excavation must meet the standards prescribed in Quebec. Please feel free to measure the height of the excavation by yourself. After all, it will be the basis of your asphalt driveway and determine its strength and durability.
Step 2: installation of the geotextile fabric
Once the excavation is complete, the contractor will install a geotextile canvas, a key stage of the asphalt paving. Indeed, a quality geotextile fabric can extend the life of your asphalt driveway by 5 years. The purpose of this canvas is to separate the original soil from the filling gravel and, thus, to protect the asphalt from freezing. The quality of the canvas and its installation will influence the general quality of your asphalt driveway.
Step 3: compacting into crushed stones
After installing the geotextile fabric, you will need to fill the excavation hole with crushed stone resistant to frost. During this step, it is important to check that the slope is at least 2%, which will allow better drainage of rain and snow when thawed. You certainly don’t want water infiltration in your home! For best contractor service I will invite you to visit our recommended site by clicking on the highlighted link.
