Before hiring a pavement company, there are several questions property managers should ask to ensure they know what kind of service they’re buying. Whether or not a company can finish the commercial paving project on time and on budget is essential in making a hiring choice. Other factors, such as different pavement options and quality, weigh just as heavy when making a decision. Property managers should make sure they ask all of the right questions to have the best results with the pavement company they choose. Here’s an overview of the questions, which we will dive into in detail below.
- How long has the company been in business?
- Do they have previous examples of their work?
- What services do they provide?
- What materials do they use?
- How much do the services cost?
- What is the timeline for the project, from start to finish?
- What is expected during the project?
- Who will be working on the project?
- Is the company insured and licensed?
1. How Long Has the Company Been in Business?
It’s nice to establish how experienced a pavement company is before hiring them. Companies with a long history under their belt usually have the right experience for the job. It may be essential to note how they’ve adapted to new technologies if they are older, and what their previous customers have said about their services. Property managers should ask the paving company this question first to establish the context of the company’s experience in the pavement industry.
2. Do They Have Previous Examples of Their Work?
Along with customer reviews, property managers should look at previous work the pavement company has done. If any of the projects are local, they could even look in person to see how the job looks. Viewing pictures of former projects is a good idea as well. It will give the property manager a great idea of what to expect of the finished product. Seeing examples of the company’s work is a good indication of their reputation and quality.
3. What Services Do They Provide?
Property managers should always ask pavement companies precisely what their services are as it pertains to their specific project. Many pavement companies offer several different services, from concrete to asphalt paving. There is also repair work that can be done to existing damaged asphalt without completely redoing the paving at your property. At Richfield Blacktop, we offer infrared asphalt repair. This infrared technology has proven to be a successful method of repairing asphalt damage, such as:
- Divots
- Potholes
- Cracking
- Heaving
4. What Materials Do They Use?
As mentioned, pavement companies may offer different services, depending on what materials they use. Richfield Blacktop offers asphalt and concrete paving options, and both are great choices. Property managers should discuss with the pavement company which material would be best for their project. It’s a great idea to get their expert opinion, primarily if the property manager hasn’t dealt with pavement before. Both asphalt and concrete have different benefits, so discussing which material is best for your project is a great starting point.
Asphalt
- Costs 40-60% less than concrete.
- Durable and flexible, making it ideal for winter.
- It can last up to 30 years.
- Snow and ice melt faster on dark asphalt.
- Added curb appeal to the property.
- Old asphalt can be recycled, making it a low carbon footprint option.
- Less expensive to install but may require more maintenance than concrete.
- It is possible to overlay asphalt but speak with an expert about the drawbacks.
Concrete
- It can last up to 50 years when properly sealed and maintained.
- The initial cost is higher than asphalt, but concrete lasts longer.
- Excellent curb appeal, especially with decorative enhancements.
- Will not heat up or soften in the sun.
- More comfortable to walk on with bare feet.
- It may appear more cohesive in your neighborhood.
5. How Much Do the Services Cost?
Of course, property managers should be aware of what the paving services will cost. It will all depend on the size of the project and the materials used. Measurements will be necessary to deliver an accurate cost estimate. If the property manager chooses to add any additional features, like edging, the cost will increase. There are also sub-base requirements to ensure the paving will be stable. The sub-base is determined by the kind of soil at the location and the current sub-base condition and depth. Many costs related to pavement upkeep can be solved by regular preventative maintenance.
6. What Is the Timeline for the Project, From Start to Finish?
Depending on what time of year the property manager would like to start the paving project, the timeline could be shorter or longer depending on how busy the paving company is. At Richfield Blacktop, we operate from March to November to account for the Minnesota winters. Once the process has begun, the property manager should make sure they have a clear idea of the timeline.
7. What Is Expected During the Project?
As a property manager, it’s essential to know how long the paving project will take, to be able to notify your tenants. Once you know what the timeline will be, then the next question would be about the process. The property manager should make sure they know what to expect and what the property tenants should expect. Clear communication is always ideal when working on a project that may disrupt normal traffic flow or parking. It’s also important to take into account maintenance of the pavement once it is complete. Summer is the ideal time for maintenance. The property manager should check the condition of the pavement and address any issues that have come up since winter.
8. Who Will Be Working on the Project?
Paving projects are typically a team effort due to the machinery used. If the property manager is curious, they can find out who the crew will be so they know what to expect. Before the project begins, the property manager will typically work with a consultant to determine the project specifics. Our crews are highly skilled and friendly. They will respect the property and make sure the property manager understands any issues, like drainage, and answer any questions.
9. Is the Company Insured and Licensed?
One final question that’s important to ask is about the company’s validity. The property manager will want to find out if the company is appropriately licensed and insured. This ensures the project will be lawful and protected by insurance.
Asking the Right Questions
When investing time and money in a pavement project, it’s important for property managers to be informed of their decisions. Property managers who are able to ask the right questions will make the best choice for their property. With the help of a pavement company, the end result will add fresh curb appeal while maintaining safe outdoor surfaces for their tenants.
