How to Choose the Best Paving Contractors for Your Project

Are you paving a new driveway, resurfacing a commercial parking lot, or installing walkways around your property? A trustworthy, reputable paving contractor will deliver long-lasting results, keep your project on budget, and finish the job on time.

On the other hand, hiring the wrong contractor can result in delays, poor-quality workmanship, and you may need to fork out extra cash to repair your paving!

This blog will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best paving contractor for your project, whether it’s residential or commercial.

Picking a Contractor: What To Take Note Of

It might sound easier to just call up your nearest paving professional, but can they get the job done to a high standard?

What is the Project Scope?

Before you start calling contractors or requesting quotes, think about what you are hoping for with your project. The more specific you are about what you need, the easier it will be to find the right team. Ask yourself:

1. What type of surface do you want paved (driveway, walkway, patio, parking lot)?
   
2. What paving material do you prefer: asphalt, concrete, gravel, pavers, or permeable materials?
   
3. What is the approximate square footage or area to be paved?
   
4. Are there drainage issues or slopes that need to be addressed?
   
5. Do you have a deadline in mind?
   
6. What’s your budget range?
   

This way, you can narrow down your list of contractors to those who specialise in your type of paving project and can give you accurate estimates.

Research Contractors

Now that you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to build a list of potential contractors.

1. Review sites: Check Google Reviews or customer testimonials.
   
2. Social media: Many reputable contractors showcase their work on Facebook or Instagram.
   
3. Referrals: Ask neighbours, friends, or local businesses who they’ve used and if they’d recommend them.
   

Look for contractors with consistently high reviews, detailed project portfolios, and a professional online presence.

Look at Contractor Qualifications

Hiring a contractor is a big decision, and you want someone qualified to do an excellent paving job. What areas do you need to review?

Do they have licenses and are accredited? Make sure the contractor is fully licensed, meets local building codes and minimum standards for training and knowledge.

Accreditations or affiliations with organisations like the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) or the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) are great indicators of professionalism and industry commitment.

How many years of experience do they have? Contractors who’ve been in business for 5–10 years or more have likely worked through a wide range of paving challenges. Ask how long they’ve been operating and how many projects similar to yours they’ve completed.

What does customer service look like? Do they return calls and emails promptly? Are they patient when answering your questions? Do they provide clear, written estimates? You want paving professionals who know how to help you.

Hire Local Contractors

There are many benefits to working with someone from your area:

1. Faster response times: Contractors will be able to visit your site quickly.
   
2. Knowledge of local climate: This matters because different paving materials respond differently to weather extremes.
   
3. Community reputation: Local contractors rely heavily on referrals and are more likely to go the extra mile to maintain a positive image.
   

Do They Have Eco-Friendly Options or Permeable Paving?

Environmentally conscious, or do you have stormwater management concerns? Ask contractors about sustainable paving solutions such as:

1. Permeable pavers allow rainwater to seep through the surface and filter into the ground below.
   
2. Recycled asphalt or concrete reduces the need for new materials and helps conserve resources.
   
3. Cool pavement technology since it reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat, reducing urban heat islands.

Understand the Installation Process

Before signing a contract, get a clear understanding of how the contractor plans to approach the project. What questions should you be asking?

1. How will the site be prepared before paving?
   
2. What type of base material will be used?
   
3. How long will the paving and curing process take?
   
4. What kind of equipment will be used?
   
5. Will traffic or foot access be restricted during installation?
   
6. What happens if it rains during the scheduled timeline?
   
7. Will you need to stay off the surface for a set time?
   
8. Will they handle material disposal or leftover debris?
   

Review Past Projects and Customer References

Any reputable contractor should be able to show you examples of their work. What should you be looking for?

1. A portfolio of completed projects
   
2. Testimonials or video reviews are available on their website.
   
3. A list of references you can call or email.
   

When looking at references, ask:

1. Was the contractor punctual and professional?
   
2. Was the final result what you expected?
   
3. Were there any unexpected costs or delays?
   

For example, you can follow Paver Shop to see our residential and commercial paving work on Instagram or Facebook!

Compare Detailed Quotes

Once you’ve narrowed your list, request written, itemised quotes. Here is what your quote should include:

1. Square footage to be paved
   
2. Material and labour costs
   
3. Base preparation details
   
4. Equipment use or rental costs
   
5. Estimated start and completion dates
   
6. Cleanup and disposal fees
   
7. Payment schedule
   

Avoid vague estimates that lump everything into one price. The more detailed the quote, the better you can compare offers! Always be cautious of very low bids; these can lead to cost-cutting or poor workmanship.

Verify Licensing, Insurance, and Bonding

You should never hire a contractor without confirming their legal and financial protections. This step is non-negotiable. Be sure to verify:

1. Licensing: Use your state or city’s contractor license lookup tool. The Victorian Building Authority can give you information on registered building practitioners.
   
2. General liability insurance: This protects your property in case of damage.
   
3. Worker’s compensation: Covers injuries sustained by workers on your site.
   
4. Bonding: Provides you with compensation if the contractor fails to complete the job as agreed.
   

The Victorian Building Authority states that some landscaping work must be done by a registered building practitioner, whereas other landscaping work is not legally required. You need to engage with a registered building practitioner when:

1. The contract price of the works is over $10,000
2. The work is domestic building work

Landscaping work is considered domestic building work when it is carried out in association with:

1. The construction of a home
2. The alteration, renovation, extension, improvement, or repair of a home
3. The construction of a building that needs a building permit and is on land zones for residential purposes

Domestic building work could be:

1. Pergolas attached to your home
2. Decks associated with your home
3. Retaining structures
4. Certain fencing
5. Verandahs

Paver Shop can supply and install a range of pavers for your property! Brand-new pavers can breathe new life into your backyard or outdoor entertaining area, and this is one of many reasons why you should partner with our experienced pavers contractors in Melbourne!

Why Choose Paver Shop?

After you’ve done your research, compared estimates, and verified credentials, it’s time to choose the contractor. Why is it a good idea to pick Paver Shop?

1. We communicate clearly and professionally
   
2. We provide a transparent and fair contract
   
3. We offer quality materials (from Sandstone to Limestone) and modern installation methods
   
4. We have a strong portfolio of projects, from patios to pool exterior tiling

Let’s take a quick look at our process:

1. Our friendly shop assistants will guide you through our range of pavers and offer helpful insights to assist your selection.
2. If you choose to install with us, we organise a convenient time to visit you to provide a FREE quote. This includes measuring exactly what you need so we can accurately price the supply of your pavers and materials.
3. Once your pavers are ready, we arrange pick up or delivery with you. We drop off your pavers with a forklift truck so it’s easy to deliver them to your site.
4. Our qualified installers begin the installation to transform your space, whether it be a gorgeous garden or an area to host a BBQ with family.

Call us to receive a quote from reputable installers who can provide quality workmanship and back it up with their skills.

We offer a one-stop shop where we supply everything you need. Request a quote today!

Paver Suppliers in Melbourne: Choose Pavershop For a Successful Paving Project

Whether you’re hoping for new pavers in Mill Park, Preston, Bundoora, Northcote, Brunswick, Thornbury, Pascoe Vale, Taylors Lakes, Taylors Hill or Greenvale, choosing the best paving contractor doesn’t have to be stressful.

Paver Shop opened in 2019 and is owned and operated by a trade professional with over 20 years of experience in the paving and landscaping industry. We specialise in the supply of quality natural stone products that suit you. We can quote your property and/or recommend preferred installers.

By taking the time to define your project, research your options, and ask the right questions, you can ensure you hire a qualified professional who will get the job done right.

Whether you’re paving a driveway, installing a new patio, or upgrading a commercial lot, investing in a reliable, experienced contractor is the key to long-term value and curb appeal.

Contact us today for Granite, Bluestone, Travertine, Limestone, Cobblestones, Porcelain, Concrete pavers and more! We service Melbourne and Victoria, and offer a “We come to you” service. For an appointment, please call (03) 9462 4325.