When planning a commercial paving project, the company you choose to partner with is singlehandedly the most important decision you will make. Whether you’re considering a new parking lot, roadway, or any other asphalt surface, there are several key factors to evaluate when selecting a paving contractor that will help ensure the success and longevity of your investment. Our experts at Encore Pavement, a leading asphalt paving company in Wichita, Kansas, have decades of experience providing services to commercial, industrial, and residential customers throughout the Midwest, so we know a thing or two about paving. Take note of these five qualities to look for in your next asphalt paving partner!
Experience and Expertise
Like all learned skills, paving is a specialized skill that improves with years of practice. It’s important to research and evaluate the experience of your chosen paving partner, as an experienced contractor will have a thorough understanding of different paving techniques, materials, and best industry practices. Local companies will often also have a thorough knowledge of specific regional challenges that could affect your project. Most companies offer examples of their previous work on their website, along with their qualifications and areas of expertise, to help you determine if they’re the right fit for you.
Check out an example from our Encore Pavement project gallery here!
Recent Reviews
Once you’ve researched companies in your area, look into recent customer reviews and references before making any final decisions. Reputable organizations will share their customer feedback openly to show potential customers the types of projects they have worked on previously. This not only helps prospective customers determine if the company is well-suited for their specific job or industry, but it can also provide valuable insights into the contractor’s work ethic, reliability, and overall satisfaction of their customers.
Properly Licensed and Insured
Ensuring that your paving partner is licensed and insured is non-negotiable. A valid license demonstrates the contractor meets the necessary industry standards and regulations, and there should be no hesitancy from your contractor to provide this documentation. The most common mistake business owners make is hiring unqualified paving companies, and while it may seem easier to choose the quickest, cheapest option, don’t forget to ask the initial questions and verify that they are properly licensed and insured. This is crucial for protecting both you and the contractor in the event of accidents, injuries, or property damage.
Competitive Pricing
Cost should never be the sole determining factor in choosing a paving contractor, but it is undoubtedly an important consideration! A reputable contractor should be able to provide you with a transparent and detailed estimate, including all relevant costs, such as materials, labor, and equipment. Beware of contractors who offer significantly lower prices than their competitors, as this may indicate the use of subpar materials or shortcuts in the paving process. On the other hand, exorbitantly high prices may not necessarily guarantee superior quality.
Effective Communication
Lastly, communication is key. Look for an asphalt paving company that values clear and transparent communication throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation and project bid to completion. A dependable partner should respond to your inquiries, provide detailed plans and timelines, and inform you of any unexpected developments. At Encore Pavement, our team is dedicated to earning long-term partners rather than one-time contracts, and we do this by keeping our customers informed every step of the way!
