Alright, so you need some asphalt work done at your place here in Thornton. Maybe it's a new driveway, a repair, or a full-on resurface. Good for you for doing your homework first. I've been in this business a long time, and I've seen plenty of good work and, unfortunately, a fair bit of bad work too. Hiring the right contractor isn't rocket science, but there are definitely some things you need to know.
What to Ask Before They Even Look at Your Driveway
When you call someone up, or they show up at your door, don't just let them start talking. You're the one spending the money, so you need to be in charge. Here are some non-negotiable questions:
- Are you licensed and insured in Colorado? Get their license number. A reputable company will have general liability insurance and workers' comp. Ask for proof, not just a verbal 'yes.'
- How long have you been in business under this name? Longevity usually means they're doing something right and they're not just a fly-by-night outfit.
- Can you provide references from recent jobs in the Thornton area? I'm talking actual phone numbers or addresses you can drive by.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your work? And what does it cover, exactly? A good warranty shows they stand behind their product and craftsmanship.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Is it your crew, or do you sub it out? It's not necessarily a deal-breaker if they use subs, but you need to know who's ultimately responsible.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
You'll get a few quotes, I'm sure. Don't just compare the bottom line. That's a rookie mistake. A good quote should be detailed, not just a single number. Here's what you want to see:
- Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly state what they're doing. Are they removing old asphalt? How deep? What kind of base material are they using? How thick will the new asphalt be? For example, if you're in an older neighborhood like Eastlake, the soil can be pretty expansive, so a good base is crucial.
- Materials Specified: What kind of asphalt mix? What grade? This might sound technical, but it matters for durability.
- Timeline: When do they expect to start? How long will it take?
- Payment Schedule: What's the deposit? When are other payments due? Be wary of anyone asking for a huge upfront payment.
- Cleanup: Who's responsible for hauling away debris? What about protecting your landscaping?
- Permits: For larger jobs, permits might be required by the city of Thornton. Who's pulling them?
A quote that's just a price and