Assessing Your Skills and Knowledge
One of the first things to think about is your own skill level and knowledge regarding driveway installation. Driveway construction is complex and requires expertise in grading, preparation, materials, drainage, and more. Professionals have the background, training and experience to know the right techniques and follow codes and regulations. They understand the science behind creating a long-lasting, functional driveway. For a DIYer, there will be a steep learning curve to gain the knowledge needed to do the job properly. If you have never taken on a major project like this before, hiring a pro may be worth it to get it done right the first time.
Another consideration is that driveway installation often requires the operation of heavy machinery like excavators, backhoes and skid steers. Maneuvering this large equipment takes skill and precision. Professionals are trained on operating these machines, while an inexperienced DIYer can easily make dangerous mistakes. Consider your comfort level with operating such equipment before deciding to rent and use it yourself.
Time Commitment and Project Scope
The scope of the driveway project also influences the DIY vs. pro decision. A small driveway or simple repaving job may be manageable for a dedicated DIYer. But for larger driveways, a complete tear-out and replacement, or complex designs like a curved driveway, the amount of time and effort involved in a DIY project may be overwhelming. Professionals have the resources to take on big jobs efficiently. They also know techniques like how to stage and schedule the work to minimize disruption at your home.
It’s important to realistically assess how much time you can dedicate to a DIY driveway installation, factoring in your other commitments. Rushing through the job in your spare time increases the chances of mistakes. Professionals devote their full work days to projects like this and can make steady progress. Unless you can set aside days or weeks for the project yourself, hiring a contractor may allow for a faster turnaround.
Access to Proper Materials and Tools
Driveway installation requires access to specialized materials and tools. A professional contractor will have relationships with suppliers like local concrete supply stores to get premium materials like high quality concrete, aggregates and rebar needed to create a durable driveway. They also have large equipment like concrete mixer trucks that are able to transport and pour large volumes of concrete efficiently.
Gathering all the necessary materials and tools yourself without these professional connections can be difficult and costly. You’ll need to do extensive research to even determine what materials are ideal and source them affordably. The quality may also be questionable without a professional’s discernment. The same goes for the large tools and machinery - renting it can get expensive, and you may have to accept older, clunky equipment. Access to better equipment and materials is a key advantage of hiring a pro.
Correct Process and Code Compliance
Professionals have the expertise to follow the proper process from site preparation all the way through curing and sealing the concrete. There are standards and best practices for each step of driveway installation to ensure structural integrity and prevent premature cracking or deterioration. Examples include properly compacting and grading the subbase materials, adding wire mesh or rebar reinforcement, appropriate concrete mix and thickness, control joint placement, adequate curing times, and proper application of sealants.
A DIYer may easily overlook or skip steps, use inadequate methods, or make other mistakes in the process that could compromise the driveway. Professionals regularly install high quality driveways by correctly following accepted processes. They are also familiar with local building codes and will ensure the driveway complies, while an inexperienced DIYer may violate codes unknowingly. Doing it right the first time with help from the experts can prevent problems down the road.
Business Reputation and Warranties
When hiring any contractor, it’s wise to research their business reputation and history. Many driveway companies have been in business for decades and have extensive experience under their belt. They have numerous driveways as proof of their quality workmanship. Reviewing online testimonials can provide insight into a company’s professionalism, quality and service.
Professional driveway contractors often provide warranties of 5-10 years or more on their work. This provides peace of mind that any defects will be repaired. A DIY project certainly will not come with any warranty. If the driveway prematurely deteriorates, you will bear the full cost and effort of repairs. The warranty offered by established paving companies offers financial protection on your investment for years into the future.
Permits and Local Regulations
There are often local permits required for significant driveway work, even for homeowners doing DIY projects. Researching the requirements, submitting applications, and getting the necessary approvals can be complicated. Professionals are very familiar with local permitting processes and codes for driveway construction. They can take care of pulling any needed permits for the project on your behalf.
Following regulations is important for safety, code compliance, and legal protection. A permit also provides recourse to homeowners if the contractor performs substandard work. It adds a level of consumer protection and accountability. But as the party doing the work, ensuring proper permits are in place falls on you as the DIYer. Hiring a pro who includes permitting in their services can simplify compliance.
When hiring a contractor, ensure:
- - Longtime local business with satisfied customers
- - Specialized driveway expertise
- - Use latest methods and innovations
- - Proof of insurance and bonding
- - Custom design capabilities
- - Responsive communication and references
Carefully weigh your skills, time, project scope, permitting needs, costs, and other factors. For most homeowners, hiring a professional paving contractor provides superior results and protections.
Once installed, maintain your new driveway by:
- - Allowing proper concrete curing time
- - Sealing regularly to prevent moisture damage
- - Controlling weeds and cleaning spills
- - Addressing cracks quickly to prevent worsening
- - Avoiding excess weight and checking for weather damage
- - Power washing and re-applying joint sealant periodically
Proper maintenance maximizes your driveway’s durability and longevity.
In summary, a professional driveway installation is worth considering for most homeowners based on the contractor's expertise, equipment, efficiencies and long-term protections. Carefully assess all factors to decide if DIY or hiring a pro best fits your skills, budget and project scope.
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