Obtaining an estimate for asphalt repair is often the first step, but can be a tedious and easily misunderstood process that can result in wasted time and poor results. The most vital component of a good estimate, which will lay the foundation for a solid contract, is a full understanding of the estimate contents and scope of work that needs to be performed. Below are a few discussion points to review with your Project Consultant to ensure the work is fully understood before work begins on your project:

• Understanding Project Scope
  Project scope is the most important content of your proposal. It includes all of the aspects and details of the work you are looking to complete. The best way to make sure your project scope is understood is to sit down and have an in-depth conversation with your Project Consultant about the issues you have recognized, as well as their professional opinion regarding the longevity of your pavement. It is also worth mentioning your budget, as there are many ways that pavement maintenance can be approached. With the right budget and the right maintenance plan, your asphalt will not only last longer, but be more cost effective over time. If neglected, pavement can be much more costly to remove and replace than if maintained properly over the years.
• Recognizing Different Measurements
  Hand-in-hand with the overall project scope is a very important detail that’s easy to overlook. Measurements are not standard within the asphalt industry and the variances can be vital but easy to miss, especially when comparing two competitors and their proposed estimates. Ask your Project Consultant to go over exactly what the measurements mean and if they could show a sample area that would represent that measurement (e.g., What does one linear foot look like, compared to a square yard?). It is also an excellent idea to review the map for your project with your Project Consultant to fully understand the area that will be included in the estimate. This will give you a sound idea of the work being completed and eliminates any misunderstanding as to what work the estimate and contract will cover. This is especially important if your property is being segmented due to varying budgets or levels of wear on the asphalt.
• Read the Fine Print
  It may sound cliché but reading the fine print for your estimate is the final step to fully understanding what is all included with your project. Examples of easily misunderstood fine print include industry terminology (alligator cracking, etc.) and what work can/cannot be performed due to pavement condition, exclusions from the work and tax exemption. It is vital to understand the limitations of your estimate up front because it allows for a clear comparison between multiple proposed estimates and how that will affect the longevity of your pavement in the future.

While estimates can feel impossible to navigate, the Project Consultants at Sunland Asphalt & Construction, Inc. (Sunland) are here to resolve any questions or concerns you may encounter while reviewing your project. Our transparency with estimates and contracts is only one example of how our values set us apart from the competition. At Sunland, we strive to earn your trust and treat every project as an opportunity for us to prove our expertise in all of your asphalt and pavement maintenance needs.