Paving Cost Estimates | PavingCostEstimates.com

Having a gravel driveway is a constant battle of the elements—whatever the season, a portion of your driveway is walking into your home on the bottom of everyone’s shoes. In the winter and spring, your driveway morphs into mud; in the summer, it dissolves into tiny granules of dirt; and, in the fall it hides itself with bugs and leaves—all of which eventually end up inside your home. If you are considering having your driveway paved, start by getting some paving estimates.

Using a matching service is an efficient and convenient way to locate a local professional who will estimate the cost for you. Without leaving the comfort of your computer, you simply answer a few simple questions, and the matching service will identify three or four local, qualified professionals who are interested in performing the work. One of the questions you will be asked is how quickly you want the work performed. If you make the matching service aware that you are simply seeking estimates, the contractors will be fully aware that you are still in the “contemplation phase.”

Before you know it, the contractors will begin calling. As you take a few minutes to talk with them, ask yourself: Are they personable? Did you get a good feeling? Do they understand that you are still “shopping” and are not “ready to buy”? Ask them if they are licensed, bonded and insured. Will they take care of any necessary permits? Maybe they are willing to give you a discount if you are flexible with your scheduling? Take a moment to browse their company websites, read customer reviews and see if other customers had a good experience.

Eventually, the contractors will offer to visit your home for a first hand look at the project. Have a list of questions, so you are able to interview each contractor in a similar manner. Make notes of their responses, so you can investigate any inconsistencies. Also, make sure each contractor calculates the same amount of surface area, and that they are all quoting the same thickness in stone and paving material. After that, all you have to do is sit back and wait for the contractors to begin submitting their cost estimates.

Once they are presented, compare the various cost estimates to see where you are getting your best value. Remember, the cheapest isn’t always the best! Again, make sure each contractor has calculated the same amount of surface area, and that their quote is for similar thicknesses in stone and paving material.

When you are ready to move from “shopping” to “buying,” you will rest assured that you are making the right move because you received costs estimates from several qualified professional sources.