If you are tired of looking at a cracked, worn-down driveway and are ready for a change, consider paving as an alternative construction option. Not only does is look better than concrete or asphalt, it is also more durable and safer as well. These are just a few of the reasons why bricks and other materials are superior to traditional alternatives.
Safety / Ease of Installation
Bricks and similar materials have abrasive surfaces that are more resistant to slipping and skidding. In addition to being a very popular alternative for driveway construction, paving materials are also used to make outdoor walkways easier to navigate when it is raining or icy. Compared with the five days it typically takes for concrete to be ready for use, pavers can be installed much easier and faster.
Durability
When a driveway made of concrete begins to crack due to age, it can be extremely expensive to fix. Stone and brick, on the other hand, can be repaired quickly and affordably if any damage should occur.
Choosing a Contractor
Regardless of how many advantages paving can deliver, they won't mean a whole lot if you don't pick the right contractor to install your new driveway. A well-constructed driveway is not only convenient, but it can also mean a great deal when it comes to the appearance and the value of your home. It is extremely important that you choose a contractor with a great deal of experience and a track record of success.
Simply looking in the Yellow Pages or selecting the first company that pops up on an Internet search isn't enough. This is a very important job, so you should devote the time to do a little homework before making your choice. Call three companies to provide bids so you can choose from a range of prices. Once you receive a bid, make sure the contractor provides thorough details of what the job will entail so you know exactly what to expect and how much you will pay.
If you are overlaying the driveway on a previously constructed base, the contractor will need to carefully look for any potential weak spots and determine why that weakness occurred before beginning any work. Any trouble spots or holes will need to be repaired or patched before the overlay can take place.
However, if you are having a completely new driveway built using paving, the contractor needs to make sure the area drains properly and that any soft or low spots are corrected. In addition, the company will need to apply soil sterilizer to keep weeds or grass from growing up through the driveway.
It is always important you get customer references and ask their opinion of the quality of work they received. You should also make sure the company belongs to an industry trade association so its employees are aware of the latest advances in technology and efficiency.
Weigh your options and perform a little diligence in picking the right contractor. Once you see the final results of your driveway paving construction project, you'll find that the work you did beforehand was well worth it.
