We pride ourselves on reliability, great communication, integrity, and precise work. We are experts, and we will do our best to keep you informed and educated on your project. Our customers comment that we are very precise on our work, when we build it we expect it to last for centuries!! We look forward to earning your trust and business.
We are extremely passionate about the work that we do. You can depend on us to provide a high-quality service at a fair and honest price. We understand that the future of our business depends upon our reputation and that is why customer service is by far our highest priority. If you are looking for a professional you can trust, please call today to schedule a no-obligation estimate!
"I hired them to re-roof my home and in conversation I mentioned I need to have my asphalt driveway sealed, not even knowing they do this work too. They asked me if they could bid on the driveway project too. This all happened in a short timeframe and I was very impressed by their timeliness and quality of work. The owner came and inspected the roof after completion and asked me to look at it with him. We climbed up the ladder and he explained everything and answered my questions. I was thoroughly impressed and want to hire them again for additional work this summer."
"Great people to work with. Professional, friendly and did a wonderful job installing my new driveway. Would and already have recommended them to others."
The Cottage Pros, is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
In most cases, you don’t need a permit to repave your driveway, although some exceptions exist. If you’re widening your driveway and plan on widening the apron as well, you’ll usually need a permit from the Department of Transportation in your area. This permit costs between $50 and $300 in most cases. Most municipalities will also require a certified and insured contractor do the work relating to the apron and curb cut. You can contact your building department or ask your paving company if you need a permit. Your driveway professional will usually pull the permit for you.
When hiring an asphalt paving contractor to install your driveway, ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a prospective driveway contractor:
How many years of experience do you have?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you have worker’s compensation?
Do you use subcontractors on your projects?
Do you clean up after the job is done?
Who is responsible for any damage to lawn or landscaping?
Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?
Do you give free estimates?
What is the timeline for completion?
How do you handle change orders?
Can you provide at least three references?
Can I see some of the work you’ve done?
Asphalt and tarmac are not the same thing. Traditional tarmac, short for tarmacadam, uses tar as a binder to hold crushed stone together. Asphalt uses bitumen—a byproduct of crude oil—to bind aggregate. Though tarmac was once a go-to for roads, asphalt has become the modern standard. And these days, most surfaces referred to as “tarmac” are actually asphalt. So, while the names may overlap, the key distinction lies in the binder—tar for tarmac and bitumen for asphalt.
The answer to whether or not you need to get a permit before you start your driveway can vary widely based on local ordinances and the scope of your driveway ideas. In most urban and suburban areas, a permit is needed before building a new driveway to ensure that a homeowner is using safe materials and proper drainage practices while designing and constructing a new driveway. In some rural areas, a homeowner may not be required to apply for a permit. When building a new driveway on your own, always check with your local building department to see if you need to request a permit. When hiring a driveway contractor, verify that the right permits are being used before driveway construction begins.
Even with regular maintenance, most driveways don’t last much longer than 30 years. Alligator cracking is a clear warning sign that your driveway’s foundation is failing, and cracks that are deep and wide can let water in, causing more damage. Standing water is another red flag. If your driveway doesn’t drain properly, it’s going to degrade slowly. Finally, if you’re seeing dips or uneven patches, that’s a sign the base layer or soil is shifting. If these issues pop up, it’s time to replace your driveway.
The Frankfort, MI homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Learn how to find a top-rated asphalt driveway sealing pro by checking credentials and asking the right questions to ensure your pavement is protected.
Adding a new asphalt driveway to your home can boost its overall appearance and give homeowners a nice ROI down the line. But how long do asphalt driveways last, and what can you do to maximize their lifespans? Read this guide to find out.
