Looking to get your driveway paved or a new parking lot put in? That's a big investment, and you want it done right. I've been in this business a long time here in Kirkland, and I've seen it all – good jobs, bad jobs, and everything in between. Picking the right contractor isn't just about the lowest bid; it's about getting quality work that lasts. Here's what you need to know to make a smart choice.
What Questions Should You Ask?
When you've got a contractor on your property giving you an estimate, don't be shy. Ask away. Their answers will tell you a lot about their professionalism and experience.
- How long have you been in business? A company that's been around for a while usually means they're doing something right. They've built a reputation.
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? This is non-negotiable. Don't even consider someone who can't provide proof. It protects you if something goes wrong, like an accident on your property.
- Can you provide references? And don't just take their word for it. Call those references. Ask about their experience, the quality of the work, and if the project stayed on schedule and budget.
- What's your warranty? A good contractor stands behind their work. You want at least a one-year warranty on materials and labor. Get it in writing.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your crew or subcontractors? Sometimes, contractors sub out work. That's not always a problem, but you want to know who's responsible and who you'll be dealing with day-to-day.
- What's the timeline for the project? Get a clear start and end date. Delays happen, especially with our Seattle-area weather, but you want a realistic expectation.
What to Look For in a Quote
A quote isn't just a number. It's a detailed breakdown of the work. If it's just a scribble on a napkin, walk away. Here's what a good quote should include:
- Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly state what's being done. Is it a tear-out and replace? An overlay? How many inches of asphalt? What kind of base prep? For instance, if you're in a neighborhood like Houghton with lots of sloped driveways, proper drainage and base work are critical.
- Materials Used: What kind of asphalt mix are they using? What about the base material? Specifics matter.
- Total Cost: Obviously. But also, is it a fixed price or an estimate that could change? What's included and what's not?
- Payment Schedule: A reputable contractor won't ask for 100% upfront. A common structure is a deposit (maybe 10-30%), progress payments, and a final payment upon completion and your satisfaction.
- Warranty Information: As I mentioned, get the warranty details in writing right there on the quote.
- Start and Completion Dates: Again, clear expectations.
- Permits: Will they handle any necessary permits? For larger jobs, this is important.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Some things should make you hit the brakes immediately:
- Door-to-door solicitations: