How to Choose the Right Paving Contractor

Choosing the right paving contractor can be the difference between a surface that lasts decades and one that starts falling apart within a year. Unfortunately, the paving industry has its share of fly-by-night operators who cut corners on materials and workmanship. Here's how to find a contractor you can trust.

1. Look for Experience and Track Record

Paving is not something you learn overnight. Look for a contractor with at least 10–15 years of experience. Ask how long they've been in business, how many projects they've completed, and whether they specialize in the type of work you need (residential, commercial, etc.).

At All State Paving, we've been serving Central Ohio since 1979 — over 40 years of experience across thousands of residential and commercial projects.

2. Verify Licensing and Insurance

Any legitimate paving contractor should carry:
- General liability insurance to protect your property
- Workers' compensation insurance to cover their crew
- Proper business licensing for your area

Ask for proof of insurance and verify it's current. If a contractor can't or won't provide this, walk away.

3. Check References and Reviews

Ask for references from recent projects similar to yours, and actually call them. Ask about the quality of work, whether the project was completed on time and on budget, and whether they'd hire the contractor again.

Also check online reviews on Google, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns in the feedback — one negative review might be an outlier, but repeated complaints about the same issue are a red flag.

4. Get Detailed Written Estimates

A professional contractor should provide a detailed written estimate that includes:
- Scope of work (surface preparation, materials, thickness, etc.)
- Materials to be used (type and grade of asphalt paving mix)
- Project timeline
- Total cost with a breakdown
- Payment terms and schedule
- Warranty information

Be wary of estimates that are significantly lower than others — it often means they're cutting corners on materials or preparation.

5. Ask About Materials and Process

A good contractor should be willing to explain:
- What type and grade of asphalt they'll use
- How they'll prepare the base (this is crucial — a bad base means a bad surface)
- How thick the asphalt will be applied
- What equipment they'll use

6. Understand the Warranty

Ask what warranty is offered and what it covers. A reputable contractor stands behind their work with a meaningful warranty. Get it in writing.

7. Watch Out for Red Flags

• •Demanding full payment upfront
• •No written contract or estimate
• •Pressure to sign immediately
• •Showing up unsolicited offering "leftover material" at a discount
• •No physical business address
• •Unable to provide references

Make the Right Choice

Taking the time to vet your paving contractor pays off enormously. A quality job done right the first time saves thousands in future repairs and gives you a surface that performs for decades.

All State Paving is a family-owned company with over 40 years of experience, full licensing and insurance, and a commitment to transparent pricing. Contact us for a free estimate and see the difference experience makes.