Proper Licensing, Bonding, and Insurance

An experienced paving contractor will carry all appropriate state and local licenses. They should also be bonded and insured to protect your property from any potential damage or liability.

According to the Better Business Bureau, working with a licensed contractor offers greater protection in the event of disputes or safety issues.

Always request copies of:

• General liability insurance
  
  
• Workers’ compensation coverage
  
  
• State paving license or business license
  
  
• Surety bond information
  
  

Local Experience Matters

Paving isn’t a one-size-fits-all task. Contractors with knowledge of local soil types, drainage issues, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles have a major advantage. They know what material mix works best and how to prep your surface for long-term durability.

That’s why Advance Paving Co INC serving Spring Hill, TN, is trusted by residents and business owners alike. Their regional experience ensures every layer of your asphalt surface is built to perform in Middle Tennessee’s humid climate and variable terrain.

Transparent Pricing and Written Estimates

Asphalt contractors with experience don’t give vague quotes or pressure you into on-the-spot decisions. A trustworthy contractor will:



• Provide a clear written estimate
  
  
• Break down materials, labor, equipment, and timelines
  
  
• Explain your options for base prep and sealcoating
  
  
• Disclose potential extra costs
  
  

Avoid contractors who give you a one-line “total price” without explanation. Transparency is a top indicator of professional service and quality workmanship.

Equipment and Crew Capacity

Even the best contractors can’t deliver a quality surface if they don’t have the right tools and a trained crew. Look for asphalt contractors with experience who have:



• Industrial-grade paving equipment (not just rented machines)
  
  
• Trained workers certified in safety and asphalt mixing
  
  
• Sufficient team members to handle your project efficiently
  
  

Delays and uneven finishes are often caused by under-resourced crews. According to Construction Equipment Guide, achieving a smooth pavement surface depends heavily on consistent paving speed and a steady flow of material, both of which require quality equipment and well-coordinated crews. 

Warranties and Post-Job Follow-Up

Professional paving companies don’t disappear after the job is done. They offer warranties that guarantee their workmanship and materials. This gives you peace of mind that any early wear, drainage issues, or surface cracking will be addressed.

Typical warranties include:

• One to three years for installation
  
  
• Extended coverage with ongoing maintenance plans
  
  
• Repair clauses for water pooling or material defects
  
  

Make sure the warranty is in writing and signed

Clear Communication and Project Management

Experienced paving contractors keep you informed every step of the way. From scheduling and site prep to final inspection, you should know:

• Who your point of contact is
  
  
• What to expect each day of work
  
  
• How delays or weather may affect timing
  
  

Contractors who proactively communicate build more trust, and typically deliver better results. Timely updates also reduce stress for business owners who may need to coordinate customer or employee access during construction.

Strong Industry Reputation

Whether it’s through trade associations or positive reviews, well-regarded paving contractors tend to have a trail of happy customers behind them. Membership in organizations like the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) is a good sign of industry standing. Contractors who maintain memberships in professional associations often adhere to higher industry standards and ethical practices, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Quality contractors also stay informed about innovations in paving materials, sustainability, and safety practices.

Always check:

• Online reviews and ratings
  
  
• BBB accreditation
  
  
• References from recent clients
  
  
• Awards or recognitions in the paving industry
  
  

Experience with Both Residential and Commercial Projects

Contractors who specialize in both small-scale driveways and large commercial lots offer greater versatility. Their experience across job types means they’re better equipped to manage site access, equipment movement, drainage control, and grading.

Ask if they’ve worked with:

• Homeowner associations
  
  
• Shopping centers
  
  
• Municipal and public works
  
  
• Hospitals or schools
  
  

This range of experience often correlates with better risk management and job site efficiency.

Maintenance and Ongoing Support

The best paving contractors don’t treat projects as one-time jobs. Look for companies that offer ongoing services like:

• Crack filling
  
  
• Sealcoating
  
  
• Surface grading
  
  
• Drainage fixes
  
  
• Snow removal or salt prep in colder regions
  
  

These services help extend the life of your pavement and keep it looking professional year-round. Asphalt contractors with experience often bundle these services into long-term care packages or seasonal checkups.

Final Takeaway

Hiring asphalt contractors with experience can truly make or break your paving project. It’s essential to choose professionals who provide transparency throughout the process, use reliable, well-maintained equipment, possess strong regional knowledge, and maintain clear, consistent communication. 

At Advance Paving Co INC, our decades of experience and deep ties to Spring Hill, Tennessee, mean we bring more than just skill—we bring commitment, reliability, and valuable local insight that ensures every project is done right the first time. Whether you need a new driveway installed or a full commercial lot resurfaced, we’ve got you covered with quality work and dependable service you can trust.