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DaveC426913
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I'm getting quotes for paving my driveway. I've got two quotes that are miles apart and I'd like to find some sort of checklist to compare them.
DaveC426913 said:I'm getting quotes for paving my driveway. I've got two quotes that are miles apart and I'd like to find some sort of checklist to compare them.
Actually, I've got references and recos from both. Both are well-established and well-known in my area and have done many driveways around here.Evo said:Get references from both companies of customers that have had the driveways in for several years and compare. Check the better business bureau for complaints.
How long has each been in business?
Do you get a guarantee?
OK, this isn't looking so hot. I'll just have someone else do it.
Yes, this is what I intend to do. But I want to ensure that I am prepared with a list of things to ask about and I'm the one leading the comparision. If I leave it to them, they'll surely leave out stuff and then I won't be able to compare.Moonbear said:So, as Evo suggested, I'd ask them flat out to explain everything in their quotes because you have two that are so wildly different from one another.
Yes. Longer is better. A driveway subbase needs time to settle. Some people I've talked to say even 6 weeks isn't long enough.Moonbear said:So, let's see, one is going to take twice as long to get the job done, doing nothing during that time, and leaving you without a driveway, yet is charging more?
DaveC426913 said:All good ideas, I'm building a list.
One thing that several people have suggested is to ask what their labour rates or material rates are. It seems to me though, that I don't care. It seems to me that all I need to do is compare the services I'm getting versus the cost I'm paying. If they pay their labour extra or materials are more, well that's their problem; I'm basing my decision on features alone.
Or am I missing something?
When I had my driveway quoted, I specified that they had to use the same mix that they would use for a road-way, with decent sized aggregate, not just any old sidewalk mix. Sidewalk mix is made with sand so it can be extruded with curb-formers, and it not what I wanted in my driveway.Moonbear said:If the materials costs differ, you want to know if it's because one is paying through the nose from a more expensive supplier, or if the other is going to skimp on materials and leave you with a thinner, less durable driveway. Are they both using the same quality of materials? I don't know if asphalt is like concrete where there are different grades and qualities, or if asphalt is asphalt.
My understanding is that settling is important.glondor said:Why does it take so long? 4 to 6 weeks for what? 2 hours with a 5 ton vibrating roller and the a gravel will be as compact as it will ever get. Around here it takes less than half a day to do a proper job from start to finish...
I ... don't know. What are the pros and cons?rewebster said:Why asphalt and not concrete?
Only on one side. My side has a one foot loose rock/weed hump, which I'll probably finish in wood.rewebster said:Is the shared drive going right up next to both foundations?
Yeah, the $$$ one mentioned that he'd do that.rewebster said:When I had my concrete drive put in, I had the concrete put in with a very slight 'V' shape across the width, so that the water would flow toward the center of the drive and the grade would then take it toward the street.
Gokul43201 said:I don't have any good driveway paving quotes, but here's a handy road-paving quote:
"The road to hell is paved with adverbs." - Stephen King
What?
I'm replacing the drive because it's deeply rutted. My car almost bottoms out.rewebster said:If the contractor doesn't mess up the ground under the old drive too much when the old drive is taken out, the ground should be fairly 'settled'--it depends what's under the old drive too. ).
In installing my fence, I've found a pretty solid base of clay.rewebster said:If there is something in the way of 'bad' settling in the old drive, you may want to figure out why it's that way so the new one doesn't do the same thing.
I dunno. There's a concrete apd at the back of my driveway that's just rubble now.rewebster said:As far as concrete, it's much easier to take care of and lasts longer (I believe).
Yeah maybe. OTOH, my basement is dry. I'm thinkin' of not fixin' it if it ain't broke. (Too bad my neighbour can't say the same.)rewebster said:I'd concrete or asphalt right up to the foundation (with a slope away from the house then seal the joint) to keep the water from getting down around the foundation and from the chance of getting under the asphalt (or concrete).
The cost of driveway paving can vary based on several factors, including the size of the driveway, the type of material used, the condition of the existing driveway, and the labor costs in your area. Other factors such as the type of soil, the slope of the driveway, and any necessary preparation work can also impact the cost.
The most common materials used for driveways are concrete, asphalt, and gravel. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and cost when making your decision. It's also a good idea to consult with a professional to determine the best material for your specific needs.
The need for permits varies depending on your location and the type of paving project you are undertaking. Some cities and towns may require a permit for any type of driveway paving, while others may only require a permit for larger projects. It's important to check with your local government to determine if permits are necessary.
The duration of the paving process can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the weather conditions. Generally, a standard residential driveway can take anywhere from 1-3 days to complete. Factors such as the type of material and any necessary prep work can also impact the timeline.
When choosing a paving contractor, it's important to do your research and ask for references. Look for a contractor with experience and a good reputation in your area. It's also important to get a detailed written estimate and ask about their insurance coverage. Additionally, make sure to clarify the scope of work and any potential additional costs before signing a contract.