Savvy property owners know sad cobblestone walkers come and go. You need to find a qualified and experienced contractor when installing driveway, walkway, or patio pavers in your yard. Each of these projects adds value to your property. Each of these projects adds value to your property. Choosing the best contractor is vital to ensuring that your project lasts for many years.

Be a smart consumer by including these suggestions in your search for a quality paver driveway installer:

Multiple appointments

Get at least three quotes for your project. Yes, you may have a favorite contractor. Of course, include your neighbor’s paver driveway installer in the process. Additional quotes will help you compare the warranty, price, and scope of the project. Ask to see examples of comparable jobs.

Let each contractor know that you are getting multiple quotes. Set a deadline for receipt and rate them based on the initial meeting, the professionalism of the quote, the price, etc. Be sure to compare apples to apples; each paver driveway installer must bid for identical project specifications using identical materials.

Reputation matters

There is nothing better than word of mouth and testimonials, but owners must be well informed. Whether making the first call or comparing the quotes received, it is up to the consumer to “talk in town”.

The first stop is the company website. You’ll find information on how long the business has been in business, the neighborhoods it works in, and testimonials. Top-tier contractors will also educate you on paver installation on their websites. Then do a web search for Reviews and company name. That will bring up reviews from Google, Yelp, Yellow Pages, and more. Take the time to read them. Verify if the firm is a member of a business organization that emphasizes continuing education, professionalism, and environmental protection. And always ask to see projects from former clients in your area. If the contractor has an online portfolio of completed projects, you can view their work and get ideas of your own.

Never sign a contract without doing the research. Knowledge is power and it will guarantee a beautiful paver that will last for years.

Experience is important when choosing a paver driveway installer

The experience begins with the group of sales and estimators. Can they, and are they happy to provide information professionally? The paver driveway installation team should include a crew leader, preferably the business owner, who can communicate well; after all … this person will be your project partner. Make sure the name of the crew leader is included in the project. Professionals will ask you questions until they fully understand your wishes and then go the extra mile to design a paved driveway that makes your dreams come true.

Some questions help you gauge a contractor’s experience. Discuss what type of traffic control the installers will implement (especially important for urban and suburban properties). Does the cobblestone road installer know your city’s bylaws regarding trucks and machinery? If the contractor cannot answer these questions confidently and honestly, continue.

Scheduling your project

Good paving contractors usually book quickly. Remember that weather and other factors can shorten the installation season, but an experienced paving contractor should be able to provide an estimated start date.

The details of written contracts make the difference

Protect yourself by insisting on a written contract before paying any deposit or signing any document.

Your written contract must include:

• Total cost of work, including applicable taxes

• Payment terms

• Project details such as foundation specifications, drainage system details (if necessary), size of the area where the pavers will be laid are all must-haves.

• Cobblestone Warranty Coverage

• Any installation warranty must be specified

• Terms and Conditions

Read everything carefully to ensure that you will receive exactly what the estimator described during the sales pitch. Due diligence has saved many homeowners from hiring mistakes, investment losses, and severe headaches.

Negotiate payment terms that support both parties. Many contractors require a deposit to secure their position on the schedule and to pay for materials in advance. Your project balance is likely due to completion. If your driveway is a larger project, you may need to make a payment upon completion of a certain milestone, but be sure to take a good look at the pavement before releasing your final payment. If your project does not meet the details of your written contract, call the estimator and insist that it be completed correctly.

Trust, experience and responsibility should be the deciding factor when choosing a contractor. Look for above-average work, decent prices, experienced installers, and a solid warranty. Follow this tip to find a paver walkway installer you can trust for reliable service and quality work.

When a consumer does their homework and understands what each paver contractor includes in their written contract, they have read reviews online, they become familiar with the various contractors. By visiting each paver installer’s website and learning about their services, philosophy, experience, reading their testimonials, and viewing their portfolios, they can efficiently compare contractors. Here’s how paver driveway installers compare to determine who offers the best value for your project and your specific needs.