Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Asphalt Parking Lot Installers

Choosing the right contractor for your asphalt parking lot installation is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your property. Hiring the wrong team can lead to costly repairs, liability issues, and endless headaches. As a top asphalt installer company, Pate Asphalt is here to help you avoid the most common mistakes people make when hiring asphalt contractors.

Here’s what to watch out for — and how to make the right choice for your next parking lot asphalt installation project.

1. Choosing Based on the Lowest Price Alone

Everyone loves a good deal, but when it comes to asphalt installation, you truly get what you pay for. Some contractors offer extremely low bids by cutting corners, using subpar materials, or skipping critical steps in the installation process.

Problems with low-bid contractors:

• Inferior asphalt mixtures that break down faster

• Poor compaction leading to cracks and potholes

• Skimping on the base preparation, causing structural issues

Instead of choosing based solely on price, look for a contractor who offers a fair estimate that reflects quality workmanship and long-term durability. A reputable company like Pate Asphalt will provide competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.

2. Not Checking Licenses and Insurance

One of the biggest mistakes property owners make is failing to verify whether a contractor is licensed and properly insured.

Without insurance, you could be held responsible for:

• Worker injuries on your property

• Property damage caused during the project

• Future repairs if the installation fails

Always confirm that your contractor carries general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and the required licenses for your area. A top asphalt installer company will have no problem providing documentation.

3. Overlooking Experience and References

Experience matters — especially when it comes to large-scale parking lot asphalt installation projects. Some companies might be relatively new or lack the expertise needed for complex jobs.

Warning signs include:

• No portfolio of past work

• Few or no customer reviews

• Vague or incomplete answers to project questions

Before signing any agreement, ask to see examples of completed projects and request client references. Pate Asphalt, for example, proudly showcases our portfolio and connects you with satisfied customers.

4. Ignoring the Importance of Proper Base Work

A beautiful surface won’t last if the foundation underneath it is weak. Unfortunately, many inexperienced or low-cost contractors skimp on base preparation to save time and money.

Signs of poor base work:

• Standing water after rain

• Cracks forming within a year

• Depressions or potholes in the surface

Professional asphalt installation starts with proper excavation, grading, and base compaction. Pate Asphalt follows industry best practices to create a solid foundation that supports your lot for decades.

5. Failing to Get a Written Contract

Verbal agreements are risky, even if you "trust" the contractor. Always insist on a written contract outlining:

• Scope of work

• Materials to be used

• Project timeline

• Total cost and payment schedule

• Warranty terms

Without a contract, you have little protection if something goes wrong. A top asphalt installer company like Pate Asphalt provides clear, detailed contracts so everyone is on the same page.

6. Not Asking About Drainage Solutions

Parking lot drainage is one of the most critical aspects of a successful installation. Without proper grading and water management, your asphalt can deteriorate quickly due to water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles.

A professional installer should:

• Grade the site for proper water runoff

• Install drains if necessary

• Ensure water flows away from buildings and walkways

If a contractor doesn’t mention drainage, that's a red flag. Pate Asphalt specializes in parking lot asphalt installation designed for maximum longevity — starting with proper drainage.

7. Forgetting to Ask About Asphalt Warranties

Reputable asphalt contractors stand behind their work with written warranties. A lack of warranty may indicate that the company doesn’t have confidence in the quality of their materials or workmanship.

When reviewing a contractor, ask:

• What is covered under the warranty?

• How long is the warranty period?

• What are the conditions for warranty claims?

Pate Asphalt offers warranties that demonstrate our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

8. Poor Communication and Customer Service

If a contractor is difficult to reach, unresponsive, or vague when answering your questions during the bidding process, imagine how they’ll behave once the project begins.

Good communication means:

• Quick responses to calls or emails

• Clear, honest answers to your questions

• Updates on project timelines and expectations

At Pate Asphalt, we believe that clear communication is just as important as excellent craftsmanship. We keep you informed every step of the way.

How to Hire the Right Asphalt Parking Lot Installer

Now that you know what mistakes to avoid, here’s a simple checklist to help you choose the right company for your parking lot asphalt installation:

✅ Verify licenses and insurance✅ Check reviews, references, and portfolio✅ Confirm experience with commercial projects✅ Insist on proper base work and drainage✅ Get a detailed written contract✅ Ask about warranties✅ Expect clear and professional communication

By following these steps, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a successful project from start to finish.

Why Trust Pate Asphalt?

Pate Asphalt has earned a reputation as a top asphalt installer company by delivering quality workmanship, outstanding customer service, and reliable results. Whether you need a brand-new parking lot or are upgrading an existing surface, we handle every project with the expertise and professionalism you deserve.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Decades of experience in asphalt installation

• Fully licensed, insured, and certified crews

• Commitment to high-quality materials and techniques

• Clear communication and timely project completion

• Strong warranties and long-term customer support

When you choose Pate Asphalt, you’re choosing peace of mind and a parking lot that will serve your business well for years to come.

Conclusion

Hiring the right asphalt parking lot installer is a critical decision that impacts your property's value, safety, and curb appeal. By avoiding common mistakes like choosing based solely on price, skipping due diligence, or ignoring proper base work, you can ensure a smooth, durable, and attractive surface.

Pate Asphalt is ready to help you navigate the process and deliver exceptional results. Contact us today for a consultation and discover why we’re the trusted choice for top-quality parking lot asphalt installation.