FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What should I look for in a paving contractor?
You’re prospective paving contractor needs to hold a New Jersey contractor’s license. All New Jersey contractors are required by the state to have this license. Every Tri-Boro Paving estimate is accompanied with a credential package which includes required licenses, insurance documentation and a full page of references. You should obtain a minimum of three estimates to compare prices and services offered. Don’t be afraid to check the potential contractor’s references. We are well aware that we are only as good as our last project this is why we strive to exceed each and every client expectations.
2. What to BEWARE of?
Never accept any services from a paving contractor soliciting door to door with a load of asphalt. There is a good chance this is leftover asphalt from another job that they are looking to unload. Never allow work to be done without an estimate/contract, proof of insurance coverage, and required licenses.
3. Can I have asphalt work done in the winter or should I wait until the warmer weather?
New Jersey winters have become milder over the years so paving through the winter has become an option weather permitting. Tri-Boro Paving does not close during the colder months. We encourage potential clients to call for an estimate during the colder months. In doing this you’re paving project can be completed as soon as the weather breaks.
4. What’s better an asphalt driveway or a concrete driveway?
This is a personal preference. When choosing an asphalt or concrete driveway certain conditions must be considered. If you have well water with high iron content this will stain a concrete driveway. If a concrete driveway is cracked the repair is much more unsightly compared to an asphalt driveway. Repairs to an asphalt driveway can be hidden much easier with crack filler and application of asphalt sealer. Concrete driveway stains such as oil are much more obvious. The comparisons can go on and on. Tri-Boro Paving encourages an asphalt driveway. With proper maintenance such as sealcoating throughout the life of the driveway or parking area your paving project can be enjoyed for years and years.
5. How long does a newly installed driveway last and how should I maintain it?
As long as certain goals are met during the installation of your asphalt your asphalt should last 10 to 30 years. The success to the longevity of asphalt is proper installation. Obtaining proper drainage is a very important step in the installation process. Installation of a hard, stable sub base is also key to the life of your asphalt. The top layer of asphalt is only as good as the sub base it is applied over.
6. How often should I sealcoat my driveway or parking area?
A new surface of asphalt should not have asphalt sealer applied for approximately 6 months. This is to ensure the asphalt cures properly. After the initial application of asphalt sealer you should have this process repeated every 2 - 3 years. A heavy traffic flow and weather conditions will determine whether you go with the lower or higher end of the time period.
7. You have obtained three estimates for your paving project and the quotes are considerably different. Why?
Company overhead is a huge factor. Inevitably company overhead trickles down to the client. Whether or not a contractor owns their own facility, equipment, large advertising/marketing campaigns, etc. are all factors which are going to affect the price of a job. Tri-Boro Paving makes every effort to keep our overhead low. We own our own facility. We own all our equipment. Our advertising and marketing campaigns are modest. We truly believe our greatest form of advertising is word of mouth. Client references.
8. How do you know if you need a new driveway or simply resurface the old driveway?
Drainage, sub-base and root invasion of the existing driveway are key factors when determining a new driveway or resurfacing. Resurfacing without consideration to these factors will only result in quick deterioration of your newly resurfaced driveway. A reputable contractor should give you an on site evaluation and advise you of the most effective and cost efficient solutions to your paving needs.
The answers to the above questions are strictly the opinion of the professionals at Tri-Boro Paving Co.
If you have a question regarding asphalt paving feel free to submit it to our contact page located within this website. We’ll be happy to post your question and answer.
