Pride yourself as being a bit of a handyman? All too many "handymen" across the country have tried to take on large home improvement tasks, such as renovating the kitchen, the basement, or in this case, the driveway. Sure, it may look easy - you mix together some sort of concrete and pour it onto your gutted driveway, right? Wrong! All too many times, inexperienced people mix the concrete incorrectly, which results in a lumpy and bumpy driveway. Or the concrete can take days to set, resulting in debris becoming trapped in it for a life time (or a footstep from an adventurous child trying to leave their mark). Or, in many instances, the concrete can just outright refuse to be cooperative and not set whatsoever! This reason alone should be why a professional contractor is contacted to help you undertake such a large and important project. A professional drive way contractor will ensure the following:
- A large crew will be on hand to ensure that your project needs are met in a timely manner
- The correct tools and materials required will be readily available to them
- Proper drainage and drainage considerations will be made to ensure that your driveway does not "buckle" and is long lasting
- The finished product will be a smooth, beautiful driveway
- You will not need to spend your precious weekend stressing out and struggling to learn all about the ins and outs of building driveways! (This is perhaps the most valuable of them all)
This being said, you certainly do need to do your research before choosing a contractor, since all contractors are not created equal. The goal should always be to buy the best that money can buy, so do not try to cut corners and hire your neighbor with a truck and wheelbarrow down the street who claims to have helped build a driveway or two during the past ten years.
Things to consider when selecting a driveway contractor are:
- They should be certified, licensed, insured and bonded to provide these services
- A professional and qualified crew should be there to help with the process
- All necessary tools and materials should be available (preferably they should be on site)
- They should be fully aware of any zoning bylaws and regulations for your home before undertaking the project
- If building permits are required, they should be able to obtain them
- They should have good references
- They should comply with all employment laws in your area, both locally and nationally
- Another asset to consider is them belonging to a professional masonry or concrete organization
Be sure to interview a number of contractors before settling on the one for the job. You will also want to get a written estimate for the cost, as well as the amount of time it will take to complete the job.
Remember, the driveway is the gateway to your home. Not only does it make your home more visually pleasing, but it also adds value to it as well. Consider the cost that may be on your shoulders should you make a mistake doing the job yourself! Paying a professional contractor is certainly worth the price.
The only thing you have to worry about after choosing a contractor is where you will park your car while the driveway is being built!
