and Why Those ‘Leftover Asphalt’ Deals Don’t!
Edwards Paving Contractors has deep roots in this community, over 60 years. We’re proud of the relationships we’ve built and the consistent service we’ve provided our clients all this time. Having served this community for decades, we’ve unfortunately witnessed the problems that often arise from engaging with what we refer to as “fly-by-night” paving operations.
You know the scenario: someone shows up at your door, maybe in an unmarked truck, claiming they have “leftover asphalt” from a job down the street and can offer you a deal that sounds too good to be true. And frankly, it usually is.
We understand the temptation. Saving money is always appealing. But when it comes to something as important and long-lasting as your driveway or parking lot, cutting corners with these types of operators can end up costing you significantly more in the long run – not just in dollars, but in frustration and headaches.
Here’s the truth, based on our decades of experience, about why those “leftover asphalt” deals are a really bad idea…
The “Leftover Asphalt” Line is Usually Just a Sales Tactic
Let’s be blunt. Reputable paving companies meticulously plan their material needs for each job. We calculate quantities based on the project’s specific requirements to ensure we have enough for a proper installation. The idea of having significant “leftovers” that they’re just trying to get rid of at a discount is rarely the case. It’s often a high-pressure sales tactic to get you to agree to a quick and ultimately substandard job.
Preparation is Everything (and They Skip It Entirely)
A durable and long-lasting paved surface isn’t just about the asphalt you see on top. It’s about what lies beneath. At Edwards Paving Contractors, we understand the critical importance of proper preparation. This includes:
- Thorough inspection of your existing base: Is it stable? Are there cracks or weaknesses that need to be addressed?
- Proper grading and drainage: Ensuring water flows away correctly is crucial to prevent damage.
- Compaction of the sub-base: A solid foundation is essential for preventing shifting and cracking.
These fly-by-night operators? They rarely, if ever, bother with this crucial prep work. They’ll often just smear a thin layer of asphalt directly onto your existing driveway, regardless of its condition. This is a recipe for disaster. Without a solid base, the new asphalt will quickly crack, crumble, and look terrible.
They’re Here Today, Gone Tomorrow – Leaving You With No Recourse:
This is perhaps the biggest risk. These individuals often operate without a legitimate business license, insurance, or even a local presence. Once they’ve taken your money and laid down their subpar pavement, they disappear. If the driveway starts falling apart within weeks (and it often does), you have absolutely no way to contact them, no warranty to rely on, and no one to hold accountable. You’re left with a damaged driveway and the added expense of hiring a reputable contractor (like us!) to come in and fix it properly – essentially paying twice for the same job.
Why Choose Edwards Paving Contractors?
For over 60 years, we’ve built our reputation on quality workmanship, honest service, and a commitment to our community. We have a physical location you can visit, a team of experienced professionals, and we stand behind our work.
When you choose Edwards Paving Contractors, you’re choosing:
- Expertise and experience: We know paving inside and out.
- Proper preparation: We take the necessary steps to ensure a durable and long-lasting result.
- Quality materials: We use the right materials for the job, not just “leftovers.”
- Accountability and reliability: We’re a local business with a long history and we’ll be here for you.
Don’t fall for the lure of a cheap, quick fix. Investing in quality paving from a reputable contractor like Edwards Paving Contractors is an investment in the longevity and appearance of your property.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate – we’re here to stay and provide you with paving solutions you can trust.
