Asphalt serves as a cost-effective material for driveways, prompting homeowners to opt for it over pricier options like concrete or concrete pavers. According to IBISWorld, as of 2023, the paving contractor market is valued at around $25 billion. With an abundance of contractors available, the decision to install a new asphalt driveway raises a crucial question: Should you tackle this project yourself or hire a professional paving company? Read on to discover compelling reasons why entrusting this task to experts is a wise choice.
1. Time Efficiency
Constructing an asphalt driveway is not a quick solo endeavor. The process involves removing the existing driveway, preparing the surface, and laying the new driveway. This undertaking can span days with a professional crew but extend to weeks if tackled alone. Enlisting a driveway paving company frees up substantial time for other pursuits.
2. Avoiding Physical Strain
Beyond its time-intensive nature, installing an asphalt driveway demands strenuous labor. Breaking and removing old concrete or asphalt chunks is grueling work. Forming the foundation with rock and sand is labor-intensive, and handling scalding-hot asphalt for surface installation is hazardous. Relying on a paving company safeguards you from physical strain, preventing muscle fatigue, back pain, and burn injuries.
3. Expertise in Asphalt Mixture
Unlike concrete, assuming that asphalt can be easily mixed with water is a misconception. Asphalt requires a precise blending of aggregates and varying water quantities based on factors like weather conditions during installation, subsequent weather exposure, desired curing speed, and intended weight load. These nuanced factors require more than the average person's understanding, making professional asphalt paving companies indispensable.
4. Superior Aesthetics
Erroneously comparing asphalt to the smoothness of concrete or cement surfaces can lead to a rude awakening during the smoothing and spreading phase. The challenges of manipulating asphalt become apparent late in the process, leaving you with an uneven, unsightly surface. A professional driveway paving company possesses the skills to level and smooth asphalt, delivering a visually appealing result that's challenging to achieve independently.
A well-installed, visually appealing asphalt driveway can enhance your property's curb appeal and overall value. Professional paving companies understand the aesthetics of a well-crafted driveway and can ensure that the final product complements your property's architecture and landscaping.
5. Ensured Longevity
Correctly mixing and installing asphalt directly influences its lifespan. Inadequate aggregate mix or improper installation can result in cracking, crumbling, or flaking, significantly shortening the driveway's life. Local climate, soil conditions, and drainage patterns can greatly affect the longevity and performance of an asphalt driveway. Professional paving companies possess local experience and knowledge, allowing them to tailor the installation to the specific conditions of your area. This regional expertise contributes to the overall durability of your driveway. An experienced driveway paving company can ensure the asphalt's durability matches its intended lifespan.
6. Minimized Repairs
Improperly installed asphalt may develop various issues necessitating repairs. Addressing these repairs consumes time and money. Hiring skilled professionals for installation diminishes the likelihood of repair-intensive scenarios, ensuring your driveway remains functional and attractive over its lifespan.
7. Potential Cost Savings
Choosing DIY asphalt installation to save money might not yield the savings you would expect. Professional asphalt contractors receive material discounts through bulk purchases and already possess the necessary tools, sparing you the expense of tool purchase or rental. Ultimately, the cost benefits of a DIY approach would be canceled out by high equipment costs.
8. Precise Surface Grading
Accurate grading of an asphalt driveway prevents potential harm to your property. Poor grading, especially in flat driveways, can lead to water accumulation that threatens home foundations, siding, and landscaping. Professionals understand proper grading techniques to avert such costly complications.
9. Expert Care Instructions
Even if you successfully lay the asphalt, you probably don't have in-depth knowledge of its maintenance. Professionals guide you on surface curing times, recommending sealcoating for water resistance. In addition to correct installation, these insights extend the longevity of your new driveway.
10. Backed by Warranty
Engaging a driveway paving company offers the assurance of a warranty. Should issues arise soon after installation, professionals are obligated to rectify them, eliminating the burden of restarting the project from scratch. This warranty underscores your confidence in a trouble-free asphalt surface. Professional paving companies prioritize quality control throughout the entire installation process. They conduct thorough inspections at various stages to ensure that the base is properly prepared, the asphalt mixture is correctly blended, and the surface is smooth and even.
11. Compliance With Local Regulations and Permits
When embarking on a driveway construction project, especially one involving materials like asphalt, it's important to adhere to local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Professional paving companies are well-versed in local zoning laws, building codes, and permit requirements. They can navigate the bureaucratic process efficiently, ensuring that your project remains compliant with all legal aspects. Attempting a DIY installation without knowledge of these regulations could result in costly fines or delays.
12. Equipment Expertise
Asphalt driveway installation requires specialized equipment for tasks such as compacting the base, laying the asphalt, and achieving the proper surface finish. Professional paving companies possess a wide array of tools, machinery, and equipment designed specifically for asphalt paving. They know how to operate these tools effectively, enhancing the quality and efficiency of the installation process. Trying to rent or purchase these tools for a one-time DIY project might not be cost-effective, and incorrect equipment usage could compromise the final outcome.
13. Complimentary Consultations
Complimentary consultations are pivotal for asphalt paving companies as they facilitate informed decisions and build trust. These sessions empower potential clients with insights into project scope, cost estimates, and material recommendations. By addressing clients' concerns and customizing solutions, companies showcase their expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction. Consultations foster a sense of transparency, eliminating uncertainties and reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings. Offering complimentary consultations enhances the company's reputation, increases the likelihood of successful projects, and boosts overall business growth.
14. Liability Coverage
Accidents can happen during any construction project, and working with hot asphalt involves certain risks. Professional paving companies typically carry liability insurance that covers any accidental damage, injuries, or other mishaps that might occur during the installation process. This coverage provides peace of mind, as you won't be held personally responsible for unexpected incidents.
15. Customization Options
Working with a professional paving company opens up customization possibilities for your asphalt driveway. From choosing the right asphalt mixture for your needs to selecting design elements such as patterns, colors, and borders, experts can help you create a driveway that aligns with your preferences and complements your property.
In the end, hiring a professional paving company for your driveway installation offers peace of mind. You can trust that experienced professionals will handle every aspect of the project, from planning and preparation to execution and finishing touches. This peace of mind allows you to focus on other aspects of your life while knowing that your driveway is in capable hands.
With the complex nature of asphalt driveway installation, embarking on a DIY journey may prove more challenging and costly than anticipated. Engaging a professional driveway paving company ensures the job is completed with precision, efficiency, and excellence. A-One Asphalt Paving is your one-stop source for any and all commercial and industrial asphalt paving services throughout metro Philadelphia and South Jersey. We have the experts, the equipment, and the top-quality asphalt to keep your surfaces smooth and safe for years to come. If you're ready to transform your driveway, reach out to us for a complimentary estimate on your upcoming paving project.