How to Get a Good Deal on Asphalt Paving

Calculate a rough cost estimate of a paving job before contacting professional pavers.

Determine approximately how many tons of asphalt will be needed, since paving estimates are often determined by the tonnage of asphalt used. Use the following formula:

Square yards of pavement X 0.057 X depth of pavement in inches= tons of asphalt pavement.

As an example, 200 square yards of pavement X 0.057 X 2-inch pavement depth= 22.8 tons of asphalt.

Multiply this tonnage by the going price of asphalt per ton in your area. Using the example above, a price of $150 per ton would yield the following rough cost estimate:

22.8 tons X $150 per ton= $3420

Use this estimate as a guide. Professional estimates that are significantly higher than the amount you come up with may be unnecessarily inflated.

Get multiple estimates from multiple paving companies. Shop around for a better price by contacting at least three different companies. Mention the estimates you've been given when talking with paving companies to see if they're willing to beat other's rates and offer you a deal.

Ask for references from paving companies you're seriously considering before signing a contract. Reputable paving companies should be able to provide you with a list of references and/or customer testimonials upon request to guide you in your decision-making process.

Examine any contract closely before signing. Look specifically for official project start and end dates, the amount of asphalt that will be used, the length of the warranty period and the price as quoted in the contract.

Avoid scam artists who, unsolicited, approach homeowners offering them a great deal under the pretense that they have extra asphalt they need to quickly unload. Reputable paving companies do not make unsolicited house calls.