Alright, Broomfield homeowners, we need to talk about asphalt. If you are looking to repave your driveway, or fix up a cracked parking area, or put in something new, picking the right contractor is important. You do not want to throw your hard-earned money away on a bad job that will just fall apart in a few years. This is especially true with our crazy Colorado weather cycles. We have seen our share of good work as well as bad work over the years. Our team is here to tell you what you need to know about Asphalt Paving in Broomfield.
Questions You Absolutely Need to Ask for Your Broomfield Asphalt Project
When an Asphalt Paving contractor shows up at your door, or you are on the phone, do not be shy. You are hiring them for a big project, so you have every right to ask tough questions. Here is what Thornton Paving Co would be asking:
- "Are you licensed and insured for work in Broomfield?" This is not a state-level license for Asphalt Paving contractors in Colorado. However, Broomfield does require contractors to be licensed. They should have a Class C license for subcontractors like us, or a Class B if they are doing bigger residential projects. They also need general liability insurance. Do not just take their word for it; ask for proof of their Broomfield Asphalt Paving license as well as their insurance.
- "Can you provide references from recent jobs, specifically in Broomfield or nearby areas?" A good Asphalt Paving contractor will have happy customers. Ask for a few names as well as phone numbers. You should actually call them. Ask about the quality of work, if they stayed on schedule, and if there were any unexpected issues with their Asphalt Paving project.
- "What is your process for preparing the sub-base for Asphalt Paving?" This is a very important step, especially around here in Broomfield. Our expansive clay soils in Broomfield can be tricky. If they do not talk about proper excavation, compaction, and maybe even a good layer of road base, that is a red flag. A solid foundation is key to Asphalt Paving longevity.
- "What type of asphalt mix will you be using, and how thick will it be?" There are different mixes for different Asphalt Paving applications. You want to make sure they are using a quality mix that is suitable for our climate as well as the expected traffic on your surface. For a residential driveway in Broomfield, Thornton Paving Co typically recommends at least 2-3 inches of compacted asphalt over a well-prepared base.
- "Who will actually be doing the Asphalt Paving work? Your crew or subcontractors?" Some companies use subcontractors for everything. This is not always bad, but you want to know who is responsible as well as who you will be dealing with day-to-day for your Asphalt Paving project.
- "What is your warranty, and what does it cover for your Asphalt Paving work?" A reputable Asphalt Paving contractor will stand behind their work. Get the warranty details in writing.
What to Look For in an Asphalt Paving Quote for Broomfield
You are probably going to get a few quotes for your Asphalt Paving project, and they can look pretty different. Do not just go for the lowest price; that is a classic mistake. Here is what a good quote from Thornton Paving Co, or any other quality Asphalt Paving contractor in Broomfield, should include:
- Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly outline everything they are going to do for your Asphalt Paving project. This means specifics on excavation, base preparation (type and depth of aggregate), asphalt type as well as thickness, drainage considerations, and any clean-up.
- Materials Specified: The quote for your Broomfield Asphalt Paving should mention the type of asphalt mix (e.g., Superpave, hot mix asphalt) as well as the aggregate base material.
- Timeline: A realistic start date as well as a completion date for your Asphalt Paving.
- Payment Schedule: Be careful of anyone asking for a huge upfront deposit for Asphalt Paving. A reasonable deposit (10-30%) is normal, with payments tied to project milestones.
- Total Cost: This is the final price for your Asphalt Paving project. Make sure it is all-inclusive, or clearly states what is extra.
- Permits: The quote should state who is responsible for pulling any necessary permits from the City and County of Broomfield for your Asphalt Paving project. Usually, it is the contractor, but make sure it is stated.
Red Flags to Watch Out For in Broomfield Asphalt Paving
We have seen some real characters in this Asphalt Paving business. Here are some warning signs that should make you pump the brakes:
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Statements like "Sign today for a special discount!" or "I am in the neighborhood and can do it cheap right now!" are red flags. Good Asphalt Paving work speaks for itself; it does not need high-pressure sales.
- Cash-Only Deals: This is a big red flag for Asphalt Paving. It often means they are trying to avoid taxes. If they are cutting corners there, you should wonder where else they are cutting them.
- No Contract or a Vague One: Everything for your Asphalt Paving project should be in writing. A handwritten scribble on a napkin is not a contract.
- Unsolicited Door-to-Door Offers: Some legitimate businesses might do this, but it is a common tactic for fly-by-night Asphalt Paving operations.
- Out-of-State License Plates/No Local Presence: If they are not from around Broomfield, it is harder to track them down if something goes wrong with your Asphalt Paving. In addition, they might not understand local conditions or regulations in Broomfield.
- Super Low Bids: If one bid for Asphalt Paving is much lower than all the others, there is usually a reason. They might be cutting corners on materials, or labor, or not planning to do the job right.
- Reluctance to Provide Proof of Insurance or Licensing: If they hesitate, or say they will get it to you later and never do, you should move on from that Asphalt Paving contractor.
How to Verify Your Broomfield Asphalt Paving Contractor is Legitimate
You want peace of mind, right? Here is how you can check if an Asphalt Paving contractor is legitimate:
- Check with the City and County of Broomfield: General contractor as well as paving licenses are handled locally. You will need to contact Broomfield's building department directly to verify their license as well as their insurance. They can confirm if the Asphalt Paving contractor is registered and has the necessary general liability insurance on file.
- Colorado Secretary of State Business Search: You can use the Colorado Secretary of State's free online tool to search for the business entity. This tells you if they are a registered business in good standing. If it says "non-compliant," "dissolved," or anything similar, that is a bad sign for an Asphalt Paving company.
- Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA): Asphalt Paving contractors are not state-licensed. However, DORA is where you would check for other trades like electricians or plumbers if they were part of a larger project. It is good to know about DORA for other projects you might have.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check their rating as well as read reviews for the Asphalt Paving company. While not foolproof, a pattern of unresolved complaints is a definite warning.
- Call Their Insurance Carrier: Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from the Asphalt Paving contractor's insurance company. This confirms their coverage is current as well as active. You are looking for general liability. In addition, if they have employees, workers' compensation insurance is legally required in Colorado.
Hiring an Asphalt Paving contractor in Broomfield does not have to be a headache. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and trust your gut. A little effort upfront can save you a lot of trouble as well as expense down the road. If you have more questions, or need a quote from a local team that knows Broomfield, give us a shout at Thornton Paving Co. We are always happy to help with your Asphalt Paving needs.