A poorly designed and constructed driveway that begins to crack and crumble after its first winter is far more expensive than a well-constructed driveway which costs a little more to start with but remains solid and attractive for many years with minimum upkeep.
Remember that a good driveway is a major construction job that must be carried out according to rigid specifications.
ASPHALT PAVING
In general asphalt paving consists of approximately two inches of compacted asphalt laid over a crushed-stone base of four to six inches. A base of the proper thickness and material is necessary for a long-lasting driveway. A proper grade, meaning there are no low spots in the driveway, will ensure you do not end up with puddles. The overall quality of the paving job will reflect the quality of asphalt, stone, and workmanship that went into its construction.
BRICK OR STONE DRIVEWAY
When constructing a brick or stone driveway, a new base is needed. This would mean removing 10" to 12" of the surface, then packing it with grade A gravel to within 3" of the top. The grade A gravel is needed for good binding and drainage. The bricks/stone are placed on 1" of bedding sand. Proper edging along the driveway and interlocking the bricks/stones keeps them from shifting and makes for a longer lasting driveway. More sand is packed on and swept between the bricks/stones, this helps to prevent unsightly weeds growing in the crevices.
CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION
A concrete driveway requires a base of at least 8" of compacted gravel. The grade will vary depending on the drainage. The proper filling is essential to a long lasting concrete driveway. It should be 32C, with 6-8% air entrainment. This allows the concrete to expand and contract depending on the weather. Constructing saw cut control joints keeps cracks from forming all over the driveway. Saw cut control joints specify where the cracks will form, making a longer lasting driveway.
GUARANTEES AND CONTRACTS
All guarantees should be specific, definite, and clear to the public as to meaning and application. Conditions and time limit should be included. Lifetime and other long-term guarantees which extend beyond the reasonable fulfilment possibilities of the product or service should be avoided.
In cases where the company outlines in its contract a list of “Conditions,” it must be clearly set out exactly where the contractor’s responsibilities begin and end.
All guarantees and contracts should be in writing and signed by both parties.
The Better Business Bureau urges consumers to use caution when dealing with some door‑to‑door paving\sealing companies ‑ Often these companies have no address listed on their contracts ‑ some even list false addresses and phone numbers.
When you are approached by any door‑to‑door solicitors first insist on a written estimate ‑ make sure that a street address and telephone number is listed for the company, as well as a detailed description of the work they will be doing, the total cost, and any warranty or guarantee in writing and signed. Ask for references of work they have done in your area, and check the references. You should never simply sign a contract with the first company that comes to your home. Get additional quotes and check the company’s references. Also check with your local business licensing authorities to see if the company has acquired the correct license to do door‑to‑door itinerant selling. i.e.‑peddlers license.
GUIDES TO SATISFACTION
· Call your local BBB for the reputation of the company
· Remember that a price quotation means nothing unless you know exactly what is being provided in terms of adequate base, drainage, and other specification. Insist on a written contract with thickness, quantities, and areas specified in detail. Remember that you get what you pay for; your lowest bid is not necessarily your best bid. After you have made certain that your contractor is a reliable person of good standing, listen to his advice. Don’t make him cut corners by asking him to cut his price.
· Demand quality. It is your guarantee of lasting satisfaction and will save you a lot more money in the long run.