Scams In The Paving Industry
Most of the time, when people hear scammer, they think of a hacker on the other side of the computer screen trying to access your personal information. There are also scams that people fall for in the paving industry. Just like a computer virus, these scams aren’t always easy to spot. Our goal is to protect our customers and point out common scams in the industry.
Thickness Before and After Compaction.
The process of paving is a science. Typically asphalt has a 25% compaction rate. We lay the asphalt loose and then compact it with rollers. You might be wondering why this is important. This is important to know so that you get the asphalt you pay for. When reviewing a proposal, make sure to watch out for this common scam. For example, take a proposal that says “Install 4” of 448 Type 1 asphalt and then compact. At first glance, this sounds like you are going to get 4” of asphalt. In this scenario, you will be getting 3” of asphalt after proper compaction has been met. Keep a close eye on proposals to make sure that you are getting the asphalt that you pay for.
Approximately. The Fancy Educated Guess
Approximately 4”. Approximately 1,200 Sq. Yds. Approximately, Approximately, Approximately. Paving is a science. Figuring out the amount of material needed requires accuracy.
When a company puts approximately, they probably have not done all of the math needed to quote a paving project properly. Why does this matter to you? Do you want unexpected expenses or endless change orders? Probably not. When a company doesn’t communicate accuracy, that is most likely because they don’t know exactly what the project is going to take. When something goes unexpected, they will pass the added expense to you. When choosing a reputable paving company in Columbus, make sure that they are communicating accurately with you. If there seems to be some vagueness in their proposal, ask them about it. Excuses should be a red flag for you.
No Warranty or Some Warranty?
Would you buy a brand-new car without a manufacturer’s warranty? Probably not. Asphalt should carry the same peace of mind. The industry standard warranty is 1 year and protects you from failure due to materials or poor craftsmanship. Typically, if a new paved surface is going to fail because of an issue, it will happen within the first year. It is important to use a company that offers a one-year warranty.
What if a company is offering a shorter warranty? This should be a red flag for you. Asphalt, even when installed improperly, won’t show failure immediately. It typically will take a month or two for some issues to appear. To protect yourself, make sure that you are getting a one-year warranty.
This Seems To Good To Be True
We all like to find a good deal. It makes us feel like we got the most out of our money. There is nothing wrong with that. Sometimes the deal might be too good to be true. Even though paving companies get different prices from asphalt suppliers and pay their employees differently, they are still relatively close in price. Most proposals will be within 5%-10% of each other. When comparing proposals, if there is one company that is way cheaper than everyone else, that is most likely not a good sign. If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.
If you are interested in learning more, get ahold of me today.
