Want to upgrade your exterior and get rid of unsightly asphalt and puddles without breaking the bank?

Then you’re in the market for permeable paving.

Made from porous stones, this versatile paving allows fresh, clean water to move through the surface and return to groundwater instead of pooling up in your driveway or flooding your home.

If the idea of preventing water from pooling on your property is appealing (or to stop it flowing into the neighbour’s yard), you’ll need to hire the right contractor. To help you save time, money and hassle, here’s what you should look for in a potential permeable paving contractor in Melbourne.

If you want to learn more about permeable paving, check out our other resources:

1. How Much Does Permeable Paving Cost?

2. Pros and Cons of Permeable Paving

3. Permeable Pavers vs. Asphalt: Which Route to Take

4. Permeable Paving Vs. Concrete: Choosing the Right Material for Your Surface

What should I look for when hiring a permeable paving contractor?

When choosing a permeable paving contractor for your home concreting or business concreting job, you want to find a professional that is reliable, trustworthy, and capable of getting the job done.

To this end, we recommend that you look for the following signs of a professional and trustworthy business.

#1 – A local team 

Finding a local, qualified team can make all the difference when it comes to price and quality of work. Local Melbourne companies know that they will be held accountable in the community, so they tend to have a higher quality of work and more attention to detail overall. What’s more, there are lower transportation costs – which, with heavy materials like asphalt, concrete, and heavy equipment, can certainly add up if you choose a contractor that’s farther away.

#2 – Easy installation options 

Next, you want someone who can get the job done easily and quickly. This is often the case with permeable pavement, which can be installed in as little as a day. That said, you’ll want to check that your contractor is familiar with these materials, and that they can promise a quick turnaround.

#3 – Good permeable paving options 

Many permeable pavement options give you the ability to drain liquids through the pavement itself, working as a sort of built-in drainage system without any added costs.

Check with your contractor to see what kind of permeable or permeable + impermeable options they offer. That way, you can be sure to get the final product that’s best for you.

#4 – An eye for design 

The great thing about permeable grid pavement is that it offers a wide variety of design options, as permeable payment can be laid with different coloured fill aggregates and lot line markers. The right professional will know how to work with these colours and designs so you can have a stunning final product.

SAVE TIME AND MONEY: How to Find the Best Concreters in Melbourne

What questions should I ask a potential contractor?

To make sure that you hire the right professional, it’s imperative that you always start by asking the right questions. Specifically, we recommend that you ask the following quality-focused questions.

“How long have you been a paving contractor?” 

First, it’s important for you to get a sense of a potential contractor’s experience and level of expertise. If they have been in business for a while (particularly in the same area) it stands to reason that they will have significant skill and experience. If they are just starting, it may be something to look into further, particularly if your job includes complex elements.

“Do you have any references?”

Next, you should gauge a potential contractor’s style and experience. To this end, they should be able to show you their recent work and/or give you a list of references. That way, you can contact some of their previous customers and get a better sense of what kind of outcomes they usually have. Speaking to previous clients will also give you some insight into work ethic, customer service, and communication styles.

You can check out some of our latest reviews and testimonials here

“Are you licensed and insured?” 

Make sure that your contractor can operate legally in your Melbourne suburb by asking if they are licensed and insured. This will make sure that you’re protected and covered in case of a possible accident or other issues.

“How long will your process take from start to finish?” 

With any type of renovation project, you need to be on top of timelines and understand exactly what to expect from start to finish. What’s more, asking about the process will also give you insight into what techniques and machinery the contractor intends to use.  If they sound unsure or they’re not aware of a technique you’d like them to use, then perhaps they are not the most skilled person for the job.

“What’s included in the scope of work?”

Be super clear about the details in the scope of work. Will clean up be included? Will trees and grass be affected by the work? Will there be any additional fees? Laying all of this out up-front can help set expectations and ensure that you’re on the right track.

“What kind of warranty do you offer on installation and materials?” 

This is extremely important. If something cracks or breaks down the line, will their team come out and repair it? If you notice any damage that happened during install, will they be accountable? This is all important to establish from the start.

Is it worth hiring a professional paving contractor?

If you are planning on installing new pavement, we always recommend that you hire a professional. With a local and experienced team on your side, you’ll enjoy:

  • Cost savings in the long-term: A DIY project could lead to pavement that doesn’t last, which will require repairs and replacement in the long run. A professional, on the other hand, can do the job right the first time, ultimately saving you money and hassle.
  • More free time: Professionals have the skills and the resources needed to get these jobs done quickly and effectively.
  • Compliance peace of mind: Permits and compliance can be a tricky thing, and you can get in trouble if you miss some paperwork. The right professional can help.
  • Attention to detail: There are many elements that you need to get right, including stability, drainage, and detailing. The right professional will be able to adeptly handle all of this.

Get the FREE guide: How Much Does Permeable Paving Cost? 👈

Final thoughts: Always do your homework

If you’re thinking about repaving your commercial or residential space, you can’t go wrong with permeable paving. That said, getting the job done correctly is all about finding the right contractor. To make sure you have the best team for the job, be sure to ask the right questions and look for references.

Have questions about contractors or your permeable paving job? We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions here.  Or, claim a 100% obligation-free quote online.