Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Asphalt Contractor in Florida

Hiring a paving contractor for your driveway or private road is a big financial commitment, and picking the wrong one often leads to cracking, puddling, or premature failure. In Central Florida, our mix of intense sun, heavy rain, and sandy soil creates specific challenges that inexperienced crews might overlook. Before you sign any contract, use these questions to ensure you're getting quality work that lasts.

Why Does Local Expertise Matter for Asphalt?

Does your company have specific experience paving in Lake County and Central Florida?

Asphalt isn't one-size-fits-all, especially not in our climate. A contractor who understands the local environment knows that the sandy soil here requires a specific sub-base preparation to prevent sinking. If the base isn't solid, the asphalt on top will eventually fail, regardless of how new it looks today.

Our intense UV exposure is another major factor. The sun in Tavares or Mount Dora can dry out the binder in asphalt quickly, leading to brittleness and graying. A local expert will recommend specific sealcoating schedules and maintenance plans tailored to our high-UV index, ensuring your pavement stays flexible and black for years.

Are You Licensed and Insured specifically for Paving?

Can you provide proof of your current license and a certificate of general liability and workers' compensation insurance?

This seems basic, but it's the most skipped step. In Florida, specific licensing requirements exist for paving contractors. Verifying this protects you from liability if a worker gets injured on your property or if they damage your home or a neighbor's vehicle.

Don't just take their word for it; ask to see the physical documents. A legitimate company will have these ready to email or show you immediately. If they hesitate or say "it's being renewed," that's a red flag. You want to ensure that if a heavy paver accidentally clips your garage door or a crew member twists an ankle, you'ren't the one paying for it.

How Do You Handle Florida's Heat and Humidity?

What specific techniques do you use to manage asphalt temperature and curing in high humidity?

Paving in 90-degree weather with 80% humidity is different than paving in a dry, cool climate. Asphalt needs to be laid hot—typically between 275°F and 300°F—but if the ground is saturated from yesterday's thunderstorm, that moisture can turn into steam and create voids in the new pavement.

An experienced Florida contractor knows how to time the project around our afternoon storms. They also know that spray sealcoating is an essential maintenance step to protect the surface from water penetration and oxidation. Ask them about their weather protocols. Do they have a plan if a sudden storm pops up in the middle of a job?

What Exactly Is Included in the Project Scope?

Does your quote include site preparation, specific material thickness after compaction, and cleanup?

A vague quote is a recipe for surprise costs. You need to know the compacted thickness of the asphalt, not just the loose thickness. Asphalt compresses when rolled, so 2 inches of loose asphalt might only be 1.5 inches once finished. For residential driveways, you generally want at least 2 inches of compacted asphalt over a sturdy base.

Ask about the specific type of mix they plan to use. For most residential needs in areas like Eustis or Leesburg, a standard hot mix is sufficient, but knowing the specifics helps you compare quotes apples-to-apples. Also, clarify who is responsible for hauling away debris. You don't want to be left with a pile of old concrete or dirt at the end of the driveway.

What Equipment and Crew Size Will You Use?

Do you own your own paving equipment, and how many crew members will be on-site?

Paving is a time-sensitive job. Once the truck arrives with the hot mix, the clock starts ticking. If a contractor shows up with a shovel and a pickup truck but no paving machine or roller, the results will be uneven and bumpy. Professional results require professional equipment, like a self-propelled paver and a vibratory roller for proper compaction.

The crew size matters too. A team of 2-3 people might struggle to rake and finish the mat before it cools down, leading to "cold joints" or rough patches. A standard residential crew typically needs 4-6 experienced workers to ensure the job moves smoothly and the finish is seamless.

Can You Provide Local References?

Can I see examples of driveways you’ve paved in Lake County within the last year?

A contractor might have great photos on a website, but seeing the work in person tells the real story. Ask for addresses of recent projects in neighborhoods like Sorrento or Groveland. Drive by and look at the edges of the driveway—are they straight and tapered correctly? Is the surface smooth, or is it segregating (looking rocky)?

If a contractor has been in business for a while, they should have plenty of happy customers willing to vouch for them. If they can't provide recent local references, ask yourself why.

What Are the Timeline and Warranty Terms?

When can you start, how long will the job take, and what is your warranty on materials and workmanship?

Contractors are busy, but you deserve a clear timeline. A typical driveway replacement might take 1-2 days, while a simple resurface could be done in a few hours. However, permitting in places like Orange County or specific HOA requirements can add time to the schedule.

Review the warranty in writing. Most reputable asphalt contractors Lake County, Florida offer a warranty that covers material defects and workmanship for at least one year. This protects you against immediate failures like peeling or crumbling that aren't caused by normal wear and tear.

Final Checklist for Selecting Your Partner

Before you hand over a deposit, run through this final check. Do you have a written contract that details:

• Total cost (often between $3 and $5 per square foot for resurfacing, though variables apply).
• Payment schedule (never pay 100% upfront).
• Specific materials and thickness.
• Warranty details.
• Start and completion dates.

Choosing the right partner means finding someone who communicates clearly and respects your property. Whether you're in Clermont or out in Umatilla, the right contractor makes the difference between a driveway that cracks in a year and one that welcomes you home for decades.

Need Expert Asphalt Advice?

If you're looking for honest answers and quality work in Central Florida, we are here to help. Contact Reliable Pavement Maintenance today at (407) 924-8228 to discuss your project.