How to Choose a Paving Contractor: What to Look For
Choosing the right paving contractor is the most important decision you'll make for a paving project. The materials are secondary — even the best bricks will fail if they're not installed properly. Here's how to evaluate contractors before you commit.
Start With Questions, Not Prices
When you contact a paving contractor, the first thing most homeowners ask about is price. Price matters, but it's the last thing to compare — you need to know what you're comparing first.
Ask these questions before you ask about cost:
- How long have you been doing paving work?
- Can you show me examples of similar completed jobs?
- What is your preparation process?
- How deep will you excavate?
- How will you compact the sub-base?
- What sand depth do you use?
- Is concrete edging (haunching) included?
- How will drainage be managed?
- Do you do the work yourself, or is it subcontracted?
A contractor who can answer these questions clearly and in detail is more likely to do the work properly. Vague answers or impatience with the questions are warning signs.
Red Flags to Watch For
Very Low Quotes
If one quote is significantly lower than others, something is being left out. It might be preparation depth, edging, waste removal, or quality of materials. Ask what's excluded before accepting a low quote as a bargain.
No Written Quote
Always get a written quotation that specifies the work to be done, the materials to be used, and the price. A verbal quote with no paper trail is a risk. If there's a dispute later, you have no reference point.
Pressure to Decide Immediately
High-pressure sales tactics — "this price is only valid today" — are a warning sign. A legitimate contractor has enough work and doesn't need to pressure you.
Large Upfront Deposit
A modest deposit to secure materials is reasonable. Asking for 50% or more before work begins is not standard and carries risk if the contractor doesn't perform.
Can't Provide References or Examples
An established contractor should be able to show you photographs of completed jobs or provide references from previous clients. If they can't, they either haven't done many jobs or are reluctant to have you speak to previous customers.
No Discussion of Preparation
Any contractor who doesn't mention sub-base preparation, compaction and edging when discussing your project is either not experienced or is planning to skip these steps. These are the foundations of durable paving.
What to Check After the Work
When a paving job is completed, check:
- Water drains away from the house and doesn't pool
- All edges are properly haunched with concrete
- Bricks are level and consistent — no significant rocking or unevenness
- Cuts are clean and fit tightly at edges and obstacles
- Waste has been removed and the site is clean
Don't make final payment until you're satisfied with the finish. A good contractor expects this and will address any concerns before closing out the job.
About Aztec Paving
We've been paving driveways, pool surrounds, patios and pathways throughout Alberton and Gauteng for many years. We're happy to provide references, show you completed work, and explain our process in as much detail as you need. Contact us for a free, transparent quote.