"Leveling was done well and at a reasonable price. It took a bit more mud (6 tons instead of the 4 that was estimated), but that's life. I was surprised that the estimate did not include sealing of floor cracks, but we took care of that on another work order. That sealing was thorough and fairly priced, but not exactly cosmetic. We may need to add a top coating for that."
"The crew arrived on time and finished the job in one day. The work site was left clean and I was able to begin construction on my new shed the following week. "
"The guys did a great job on my driveway. They asked how it looked as they went, listened to special requests, and did a professional job. I am very happy with the result. They were timely and efficient. The price was right followed by quality work."
"Gino's crew did a great job with the new siding and other features. His employees work well together and were very helpful with suggestions. The siding looks great and I am quite happy with the job performed. "
"Marty, Andy, Marty and Mike have all been great. They have been working in and around my house for the last month. They are all very personable, friendly and respectful of us, our home, our pets...............Everything. They are on time, do great work and they do not waste any time. The work they have done is above and beyond what we ever expected. I will personally recommend Howard's Home Improvement to anyone."
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?
Recycled asphalt is not better than gravel, but can be a good alternative. It is inexpensive, but not as low-cost as gravel, and doesn’t tend to last as long. Recycled asphalt isn’t as dusty as gravel and is more environmentally friendly. The black look can be something that homeowners prefer. No matter what, ensure you choose an experienced recycled asphalt contractor.
A driveway approach is the part of a driveway where the public road meets the private driveway. This section contains several key elements, including the driveway apron, the curb cut, and the end slope. Depending on the slope of the driveway, this area may also contain the trench drain.
New asphalt goes through two stages: drying and curing. Drying typically takes 24 to 72 hours, after which the surface is solid enough for light use like walking or careful driving. While you may be able to park on it after 72 hours, the surface is still soft and should be treated gently. Full curing is a much longer process, taking anywhere from 30 days to a full year for the asphalt to reach maximum strength. During this extended curing period, the asphalt is susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles, sharp objects, and high temperatures. Factors like weather, the specific asphalt mix, and application thickness all influence drying and curing times. For the most accurate timeline and to ensure the longevity of your new asphalt, it is always best to consult with your installation contractor for their specific recommendations.
Several materials are suitable for steep driveways. Gravel and crushed stone are affordable options that provide good traction. Permeable pavers—such as plastic, rubber, or concrete—filled with gravel or crushed stones are also excellent, as they allow water to drain without causing erosion and perform well in ice and snow. Another option is resin, which can be coated with an anti-slip finish and helps prevent puddles. For added stability, you can install a retaining wall to prevent pavers and gravel from shifting over time.
The Tidioute, PA homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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.