Let us talk about commercial asphalt projects for property owners here in Detroit. You might own a rental property with a shared parking lot. You might also own a small business with a client parking area. In addition, you might own a large residential complex. Whatever your situation, you are looking at a big investment. You do not want to mess it up. I have been doing this work long enough at Fortune Asphalt Detroit to see the good projects as well as the bad ones. I have also seen the downright ugly ones. The ugly situations usually come from people making a few common, avoidable mistakes.
Mistake #1: Not Knowing What You Actually Need for Commercial Asphalt Projects
This is where everything starts for commercial asphalt projects. Many property owners jump straight to getting quotes. They do not really understand the full scope of their commercial asphalt project. You need to ask yourself what this commercial asphalt will be used for. Is it for light traffic for a small office? Or are we talking about heavy delivery trucks coming and going all day? The Federal Highway Administration says that pavement design needs to account for expected vehicle loads as well as frequency. This helps prevent early structural failure. This means that what works for a residential driveway will not work for a commercial lot in Detroit.
- Heavy Loads for Commercial Asphalt Projects: If you have big trucks, dumpsters, or frequent heavy vehicles, your commercial asphalt needs a thicker base. It also needs a stronger mix.
- Drainage for Commercial Asphalt Projects: Is water pooling anywhere on your property? Water is the worst enemy for commercial asphalt. Poor drainage will kill your pavement fast. We have plenty of clay soil around here in Detroit. If you do not plan for proper runoff, that water will sit and seep. This causes many problems with freeze-thaw cycles.
- ADA Compliance for Commercial Asphalt Projects: For commercial properties, accessibility is not negotiable. Ramps, markings, and slopes need to meet specific standards.
Before you even call a commercial asphalt contractor, walk your property. Look for cracks, potholes, standing water, and faded markings. Make a list of these things. This helps you explain your needs clearly. This also makes sure that commercial asphalt contractors are quoting on the same work for your Detroit property.
Mistake #2: Picking the Wrong Commercial Asphalt Contractor or the Cheapest One
This is probably the biggest mistake I see for commercial asphalt projects. You are looking for a commercial asphalt contractor. You are not just looking for someone who can pave a driveway. There is a big difference between these two things. Commercial asphalt projects demand more from the contractor. They demand phased construction as well as night work to avoid business disruption. They also demand traffic control. In addition, they demand coordination with property managers. Here is what to watch out for when hiring a commercial asphalt contractor in Detroit:
Red Flags to Spot in a Commercial Asphalt Contractor:
- No References or Portfolio for Commercial Asphalt Projects: A reputable commercial paving company should have many past commercial asphalt projects they can show you. They should also have references you can call. If they do not, that is a huge red flag.
- Lack of Licensing and Insurance for Commercial Asphalt Projects: This is not just a suggestion. It is a must for commercial asphalt contractors. If they are not licensed and insured, you could be responsible for accidents. You could also be responsible for shoddy work. Verify their license with local authorities. Ask for proof of insurance.
- Aggressive Sales Tactics or Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices for Commercial Asphalt Projects: If someone is pressuring you to sign today for a