Frequently Asked Questions

With proper installation and maintenance, asphalt paving can last 15-20 years for residential driveways and 20-30 years for commercial parking lots. Regular sealcoating every 2-3 years, crack filling, and proper drainage maintenance can extend its life significantly. In Buffalo's climate, proactive maintenance is essential due to freeze-thaw cycles.

The ideal time for paving in Western New York is late spring through early fall (May through October), when temperatures are consistently above 50°F. We avoid paving during freezing temperatures, heavy rain, or extreme heat. Spring and summer offer the best conditions for proper compaction and curing.

Project duration varies based on size and complexity. A typical residential driveway (600-800 sq ft) takes 2-3 days. Larger driveways (1000+ sq ft) may take 3-4 days. Commercial parking lots vary: small lots (20-30 spaces) take 4-5 days, while large lots (50+ spaces) can take 7-10 days. We'll provide a detailed timeline during our free estimate.

Permit requirements vary by municipality. In Buffalo, permits are typically required for new driveway installations or major modifications. Simple resurfacing, sealcoating, and minor repairs usually don't require permits. We handle all permit applications and inspections for your project. Check our Permit Requirements Guide for detailed information.

Driveway costs vary based on size, site conditions, and materials. Standard asphalt driveways typically cost $3-5 per square foot. A typical 2-car driveway (600-800 sq ft) ranges from $1,800-$4,800. Factors affecting cost include existing surface removal, base preparation, drainage needs, and accessibility. We provide free, detailed estimates with no obligation.

Yes, we offer flexible payment options to make your project affordable. Options include payment plans, and we can work with your budget. We also accept cash, check, and major credit cards. For larger projects, we can discuss financing through home equity loans or personal loans. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Our free estimate includes a thorough site inspection, detailed measurements, material calculations, base preparation assessment, drainage evaluation, and a comprehensive written proposal. We'll explain all aspects of the project, answer questions, and provide a detailed cost breakdown. There's no obligation, and estimates are valid for 30 days.

Cost variations reflect differences in materials, workmanship quality, base preparation, and included services. Lower bids often mean thinner asphalt, inadequate base, or shortcuts. Quality contractors use proper base preparation, adequate asphalt thickness, proper compaction, and include cleanup. Remember: you get what you pay for. Quality installation saves money long-term.

Our process includes: 1) Site inspection and measurements, 2) Excavation and removal of existing surface (if needed), 3) Base preparation and grading with proper slope for drainage, 4) Installation of base material (typically 4-6 inches), 5) Asphalt installation (2-3 inches), 6) Compaction with heavy rollers, 7) Edge work and finishing, 8) Final cleanup. The process typically takes 2-4 days depending on size.

We assess drainage patterns during our initial inspection and incorporate proper grading (minimum 2% slope) into our paving plans. For problem areas, we install French drains, catch basins, or swales as needed. Proper drainage is critical in Buffalo to prevent water damage from freeze-thaw cycles. We ensure water flows away from structures and doesn't pool on the surface.

Sometimes, but it depends on the condition of the existing surface. If the base is solid and there's no significant cracking or settling, we can overlay new asphalt (typically 2 inches). However, if there are base problems, extensive cracking, or drainage issues, complete removal and replacement is recommended. We'll assess during our free inspection and recommend the best approach.

Residential driveways typically require 2-3 inches of asphalt over a 4-6 inch compacted base. Commercial parking lots need 3-4 inches of asphalt over a 6-8 inch base. Thickness depends on expected traffic loads, soil conditions, and climate. We follow industry standards and local building codes to ensure proper thickness for durability.

We recommend sealcoating every 2-3 years for optimal protection. In Buffalo's climate with harsh winters and salt use, sealcoating protects against UV damage, water penetration, and chemical deterioration. New driveways should be sealed after 6-12 months. Regular sealcoating can extend your driveway's life by 5-10 years.

Cracks smaller than 1/4 inch can be sealed. Cracks 1/4 to 1/2 inch should be filled. If more than 25% of the surface shows extensive cracking, alligator cracking, or base failure, replacement may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. We'll assess during our inspection and recommend the best solution for your situation.

Potholes form when water seeps into cracks, freezes and expands, breaking apart the asphalt. In Buffalo's climate, this is common. We repair potholes by removing loose material, squaring edges, filling with hot-mix asphalt, and compacting thoroughly. For permanent repairs, we address underlying drainage issues. Prompt repair prevents potholes from growing.

Yes, we offer annual maintenance programs that include inspections, crack sealing, and scheduled sealcoating. These programs help extend your pavement's life and prevent costly repairs. We'll create a customized maintenance schedule based on your specific needs and Buffalo's seasonal requirements.

We offer a 2-year workmanship warranty on all installations, covering defects in installation and materials. The warranty covers premature cracking due to installation errors, settlement from poor base preparation, and surface defects. We provide written warranty documentation with your project. Warranties require proper maintenance as outlined in our care instructions.

Our warranty covers workmanship defects, improper compaction, installation errors, base failure from poor preparation, and material defects. It does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from vehicles exceeding weight limits, damage from lack of maintenance, tree root damage, or natural disasters. See our Warranty Information Guide for complete details.

To maintain your warranty, follow our maintenance recommendations: apply sealcoating every 2-3 years, fill cracks promptly when they appear, keep the surface clean, address drainage issues immediately, and avoid using excessive salt. Report any problems immediately. We'll inspect and address covered issues at no cost.

We serve Buffalo and all of Western New York, including Amherst, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, Williamsville, Orchard Park, Lancaster, Hamburg, West Seneca, Depew, Clarence, and surrounding areas. We're familiar with local building codes, permit requirements, and climate-specific needs throughout the region.

Yes, we provide emergency repair services for urgent paving issues like large potholes, severe cracking, or drainage problems that pose safety hazards. Our team can respond quickly to address critical problems and prevent further damage. Contact us immediately for emergency situations.

We recommend scheduling 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (May-September). For spring projects, book early as schedules fill quickly. We can often accommodate shorter timelines for smaller projects or repairs. Contact us to check current availability.