How to avoid paving problems

According to the Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Relations, residential driveway paving problems are among the most common causes of consumer complaints.

Several people have been taken by unethical companies, while others expect too much from cheap paving jobs. Regardless of the reasons, most conflicts over driveway paving work could be avoided if the consumers involved were better informed about what they are buying and who they are buying from.

Resurface: This involves laying additional asphalt on the existing driveway. The homeowner should know that resurfacing should only be done if the existing driveway is free of visible defects, including drainage problems. The old surface must be swept, cleaned and treated with adhesive asphalt bonding.

Regrading: This might be necessary if the top surface of the asphalt has cracked or heaved. Driveways might also need to be regraded to correct drainage problems.

Excavation: Involves the removal of existing material, regrading of the underlying earth and replacement of the base and asphalt.

Excavation is indicated if the base appears to be caved in, the original grading was done incorrectly.

Base stone: A gravel or crushed limestone. This aggregate offers the best compaction and drainage qualities.

Asphalt: For residential driveways, this is generally available in two grades. A mix called HL3A provides a smooth, attractive finish. The other type is HL3, which is a little more durable and is made with stone and sand.

For more information on these or other issues, call Crown Paving at 1-888-695- 7283.