Alright, you're thinking about getting some asphalt work done – maybe a new driveway, a patch job, or even a small parking area. It's a big investment, and you want it done right. I've been in this business for a long time, and I've seen it all: good work, bad work, and everything in between. Here's what you need to know to make sure you're hiring a solid, trustworthy asphalt contractor in Seattle.
Questions to Ask Every Contractor
You wouldn't buy a car without asking questions, right? Same goes for your paving project. Don't be shy. A good contractor will appreciate you being thorough.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? This isn't optional, it's mandatory. In Washington, contractors need a UBI number, a contractor license number (usually 13 digits), and they must be bonded and insured. Ask for proof. If they hem and haw, that's a red flag right there.
How long have you been in business under this name? Longevity often speaks to reliability. New companies aren't necessarily bad, but established ones usually have a track record you can check.
Can you provide local references? Ask for contact info for a few recent jobs, especially ones similar to yours. Call them! Ask if the work was completed on time, on budget, and if they'd hire them again.
What's your process for this specific job? Get them to walk you through it. For a driveway, for example, will they excavate? What kind of base material will they use? How thick will the asphalt be? What about drainage? This shows you if they actually know what they're talking about, or if they're just guessing.
What kind of warranty do you offer? A reputable contractor will stand behind their work. Get the warranty details in writing.
Who will actually be doing the work? Your crew or subcontractors? It's good to know who's going to be on your property. If they use subs, ask about their vetting process.
What to Look for in a Quote
Don't just look at the bottom line. A cheap quote can often mean cheap work that won't last. Here's what a good quote from Coastal Paving Solutions (or any other reputable company) should include:
Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly outline everything they're going to do. Excavation, base material type and depth, asphalt type (e.g., hot mix asphalt), asphalt thickness (compacted!), number of layers, drainage solutions, edge treatment, and cleanup. The more detail, the better.
Materials Specified: What kind of aggregate base? What asphalt mix? Don't just accept