Do potholes, cracks, and drainage problems in your parking lot cause you frustration?
Whether you run a commercial property or manage a residential area, a good parking lot isn’t just about looks; it is also about safety, durability, and creating a good impression for visitors.
However, picking a suitable asphalt paving company in Tacoma may be stressful, mainly because you want the work to serve you for many years.
Furthermore, when there are so many contractors boasting they are the best, how can you distinguish the good ones?
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to consider when picking a parking lot asphalt paving company in Tacoma.
1. Understand Your Needs
Before you start looking for asphalt paving companies, make sure you identify what you need.
Do you need help repairing or maintaining an existing lot, addressing some issues in a parking area, or starting work on a brand-new parking lot?
Every situation calls for a specific level of expertise and equipment.
Also consider:
- Lot Size and Usage – How many vehicles will be using the parking, and how often?
- Drainage Requirements – Water drainage must be effective to prevent problems over time.
- Material Preferences – The type of material you use – asphalt, concrete, permeable paving, and so forth.
When you know what you need, explaining your project to asphalt paving Tacoma contractors becomes easier.
2. Look for Local Experience in Tacoma
Since Tacoma enjoys regular rain, occasional frost, and many soil types, finding a local paving service that understands the city’s weather is essential.
An experienced contractor who has worked in Tacoma for many years can correctly grade the site, fit drainage pipes, and pick strong materials that handle local weather.
Inquire with possible companies:
- How much time have you spent doing business in Tacoma?
- Are you familiar with projects that are similar to mine?
Local expertise is often the difference between an asphalt paving job that lasts 5 years and one that lasts 15.
3. Check Licensing, Insurance, and Certification
Never hire an asphalt paving contractor who can’t provide proof of proper licensing and insurance. These are non-negotiables.
Look for:
- Washington State contractor’s license
- Liability insurance to safeguard your property in case of accidents
- Worker’s compensation ensures you’re not liable for injuries on the job.
Certifications from industry organizations like the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) or the Asphalt Institute are also great signs of professionalism and continued education.
4. Review Past Work and Ask for References
A reputable asphalt paving company will gladly show you a portfolio of completed projects. Look for:
- Parking lots that are similar in size and scope to your own
- Evidence of quality craftsmanship (even edges, smooth surfaces, good drainage)
- Long-term performance (ask how the project is holding up after a few years)
Also, ask for references. Call past clients and ask:
- Was the job completed on time and within budget?
- How was communication during the project?
- Were there any issues, and how were they resolved?
These conversations can give you valuable insight into what working with the company is really like.
5. Get Detailed, Written Estimates
Pricing should never be vague. Request detailed, written estimates from at least three different companies to compare.
Each estimate should include:
- Materials and labor costs
- Timeline for completion
- Payment schedule
- Warranty information
Be cautious of extremely low bids. They may be cutting corners, using subpar materials, or leaving out important services like proper site preparation or sealing.
Remember: you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in a service that should last for years.
6. Ask About Equipment and Crew
Modern equipment leads to smoother, more durable finishes and fewer project delays. Ask:
- What kind of machinery do you use?
- How experienced is your crew?
- Will subcontractors be involved?
A well-equipped and experienced in-house team typically delivers better results and has more accountability. Advanced asphalt paving equipment ensures better compaction, even distribution of materials, and cleaner edges, which directly impacts the longevity of your parking lot.
It’s also important to confirm whether the crew working on your project is full-time staff or temporary labor. Crews who are trained, licensed, and regularly work together tend to operate more efficiently and produce higher-quality results.
Subcontractors can sometimes be a gamble—while some are skilled, others may not uphold the same standards as the primary contractor. Always ask who will be on-site and request a point of contact during the project.
7. Evaluate Communication and Professionalism
From the first phone call or email, you should get a sense of how a company treats its customers.
Are they responsive? Do they answer your questions clearly? Do they show up on time for consultations?
Professionalism during the planning phase is often a good indicator of how the project will go.
Bonus tip: A company that provides a clear project plan and sets expectations up front is more likely to follow through and meet deadlines.
8. Review Their Warranty and Maintenance Support
A trustworthy asphalt paving company stands by its work. Look for warranties on materials and labor—these typically range from 1 to 5 years, depending on the scope of work.
Also, ask about post-installation support. Will they come out to inspect the site after the job? Do they offer ongoing maintenance services like sealcoating or crack filling?
A long-term partner can save you money and headaches down the road.
9. Check Online Reviews and Ratings
Websites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau are excellent places to find unbiased reviews.
Look for:
- High overall ratings
- Consistent praise for quality, timeliness, and customer service
- How the company handles complaints or negative reviews
Red flags include lots of recent negative reviews, unanswered complaints, or a pattern of issues (e.g., delays, poor communication, price changes)
10. Trust Your Gut
Sometimes, everything on paper looks great—but something feels off. Maybe the contractor is pushy, avoids questions, or refuses to provide references. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
There are plenty of quality asphalt paving companies in Tacoma. Don’t settle for someone who doesn’t earn your confidence.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right parking lot asphalt paving company in Tacoma doesn’t have to be stressful.
By doing your homework, asking the right questions, comparing estimates, and checking references, you can avoid costly mistakes and hire a partner you can rely on.
A professionally paved lot improves curb appeal, enhances safety, and saves you money in the long run.
So, take your time, trust the process, and make a decision that sets your property up for years of success.
Also read: The Untapped Potential of UK Parking Lots: Transforming Space into Homes
