A solid foundation is essential when constructing a roadway or driveway. Harsh weather conditions and water erosion can deteriorate the condition of the ground’s surface. Quality work from driveway excavation contractors is essential to creating a safe and reliable driving surface.
To help you ensure a smooth and successful project, this blog will highlight seven crucial considerations when hiring excavation contractors for a new driveway. Read on!
How To Hire Driveway Excavation Contractors In Arizona
Excavation is a crucial process in construction. It involves the removal of soil, earth, and other materials, using special tools and equipment, to level the ground and create solid foundations for different structures.
Driveway excavation contractors are experts in this important aspect of building roads and driveways. Hiring these professionals is essential to ensure the project’s sustainability.
Make sure to get service from experts with the right credentials and experience in driveway excavation by considering the following:
1. Licenses, Certifications, And Insurance
When choosing driveway excavation contractors to work with in Prescott Arizona, it is important to verify that they have all the necessary certifications, licenses, and insurance. To demonstrate compliance with professional standards and state regulations, they should possess a valid license issued by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
A comprehensive insurance plan that includes general liability coverage and workers’ compensation is essential too to protect both the contractor and client from accidents and damages.
2. Experience
Consider hiring driveway contractors who have completed projects successfully in your locality, such as installing or renovating driveways. An experienced contractor can bring invaluable expertise in Prescott’s unique soil conditions and climate considerations as well as any specific challenges during excavation and construction.
3. Portfolio And Referrals
Asking for a contractor’s portfolio or customer references will allow you to quickly evaluate their quality of work and ability to meet client expectations. Viewing their portfolio gives a visual representation of driveways they have worked on. Their customer referrals, on the other hand, provide insight into professionalism, timeliness, and overall satisfaction with completed projects.
4. Services Offered
Choose a company that specializes in the services you need, whether it’s new installations, repairs, or extra features such as decorative concrete driveway features. They must have the equipment and expertise to excavate a driveway efficiently.
Related: 5 Signs You Need A New Driveway
5. Cost Estimates
Ask for quotes from several contractors and carefully evaluate each one in terms of affordability of labor and materials costs, as well as the quality they can offer for your budget.
While price is a consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor when selecting a driveway excavation contractor. The cheapest contractor may use inferior materials or perform subpar work. Look for someone who offers competitive prices and has an excellent track record of exceptional results.
6. Project Details And Warranty
Be sure to have a contract that clearly outlines all the details of your project. This includes timelines, materials needed, specialty equipment to be used, and payment terms.
Ask about any warranties too. These will protect you in the event of problems or defects after project completion. To ensure quality and longevity, it is important to review these warranties in detail before their work to excavate driveway starts.
7. Customer Service
From the beginning of a project, your chosen driveway excavating contractor should provide outstanding customer service. Responding quickly to your inquiries, addressing your concerns, and communicating clearly should be their top priorities.
A contractor who is focused on customer satisfaction prioritizes clear and transparent communication to keep you informed throughout the entire process. Be wary of contractors who are unprofessional and do not respond to phone calls promptly. They could leave you exposed during crucial stages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driveway Excavation Contractors
How Deep Should You Excavate For A Driveway?
The general excavation depth for driveways ranges between 4-8 inches. This depends on multiple factors, including soil type, intended use of the driveway, as well as any applicable local building codes that dictate excavation requirements.
How Much Does A Driveway Cost?
Asphalt, gravel, and concrete driveways are the three most widely-used materials for this road construction project. Here’s a quick rundown of the excavation costs:
Gravel Driveway Costs
- Cost: $600 to $1800 per square foot
- Labor: $30/hr
- Lifespan: Up to 100
Related: 5 Tips In Excavating For A Gravel Driveway In Arizona
Asphalt Driveway Costs
- Cost: $1,800 to $4,000
- Labor: $5 to $7 per square foot
- Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
Concrete Driveway Costs
- Cost: $2,400-$4,800
- Labor: $1.60 to $6 per square foot
- Lifespan: 30 40 years
For detailed information on the costs to excavate driveways, read our driveway excavation cost guide here.
Choose The Right Driveway Excavation Contractor In Prescott, AZ
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision when hiring a driveway excavation contractor in Prescott, Arizona.
Remember, investing in a reliable excavation contractor is essential to keep the long-term stability and aesthetic appeal of your driveway. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your property’s crucial foundation.
We’d love to hear from you! What do you think is the most important factor when choosing a driveway contractor? Leave a comment below!