Finding a trustworthy trade contractor around Jefferson County can be difficult. You want someone who shows up when they say they will, does solid work, and finishes the job properly. If you are looking at a crumbling driveway or a parking area that has seen better days, you need to know who you are hiring.
Genesis Asphalt Co frequently fixes botched jobs from crews who did poor work. To keep you from dealing with major issues, Genesis Asphalt Co wants to walk through what you actually need to look for when hiring an asphalt crew in the Birmingham, AL area.
Ask the Right Questions Up Front
Do not just ask how much the job costs per square foot. Dig deeper into their process. Ask how thick they are laying the asphalt down and whether they are using a heavy steel drum roller or just a vibrating plate compactor. In the clay-heavy Alabama soil, proper compaction is important. If they skimp on the base prep, your new asphalt surface will crack before the first heavy summer storm rolls through.
- Do you use your own crew or subcontractors?
- What kind of warranty comes with the installation?
- Can you provide local references from the past year?
Read Between the Lines on Quotes
A lowball quote is usually a warning sign. If a contractor drops a price without measuring your lot or checking the sub-base, do not hire them. A legitimate quote should break down the scope of work clearly. Look for specifics on excavation depth, base material thickness, asphalt tonnage, and cleanup details. If it sounds too good to be true, you are probably paying for shortcuts.
Spot the Red Flags Early
Door-to-door pavers showing up with extra asphalt from a job down the street are a classic scam. Reputable local contractors do not cruise neighborhoods looking for work out of the back of an unmarked pickup truck. Watch out for high-pressure sales tactics, demands for cash-only full payment upfront, and companies with no physical address or local phone number.
Verify They are Legitimate
Protecting yourself means doing a little research before signing a contract. Check with the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors to make sure they are properly licensed for the scale of your project. Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. If a worker gets hurt on your property and the company is not insured, you could be liable.
Take your time, get multiple bids, and make informed choices. Genesis Asphalt Co is always happy to answer your questions and walk you through every step of the Asphalt Paving job without getting defensive.