In order to make the right decision on which contractor to hire for your project, Pavestone has put together a list of very important questions that you should ask all your potential brick paving and outdoor living contractors.
- What is the contractor’s primary business?
- Does the paving contractor have his own in-house crews, or do they use subcontractors?
- Is the paving contractor Certified?
- Is the contractor authorized from a major brick manufacturer such as Belgard?
- How will the contractor grade the brick installation for proper drainage and water runoff?
- Will the excavated area be a minimum of six to 12 inches wider than the actual paved area to insure proper edge stability?
- What type of edge restraint will they use, and does it conform to ICPI standards?
- Will the brick contractor excavate a minimum of 15 inches for vehicular brick pavements and nine inches for pedestrian brick pavements?
- Will the contractor use base material with proper gradation? This facilitates proper compaction while allowing for proper water drainage.
- Will the gravel base be compacted with proper water moisture, and in equal lifts to achieve the best compaction?
- Will the plate compactor used produce a minimum of 4,000 pounds of force for pedestrian pavements, and 7,000 pounds of force for vehicular pavements?
- Does the contractor use ICPI recommended torpedo sand for bedding not more than one inch to 1-3/4 inches thick?
- Will the contractor assure an even color mix on your project? (Pallets should all be opened and worked in together to assure an even color mix.)
- How long will the contractor offer their guarantee, and what will the guarantee provide?
- Is the contractor a member of the BBB(Better Business Bureau)? You should alwayscheck the BBB before hiring a contractor.
- Does the contractor carry all necessary insurances including workman’s compensation? (It is very important to ask for a copy of all insurances.)
- Is the contractor licensed withthe City in which the work will be performed?
