Everything You Need to Know About Maryland Paving Services Before Hiring
Hiring a Maryland paving contractor requires understanding local regulations, assessing contractor credentials, and ensuring your project meets durability and aesthetic standards. Homeowners and businesses benefit most by knowing the local permitting process, best practices for contractor selection, and typical paving procedures used in Maryland.
Key Steps and Local Regulations
- Maryland counties like Montgomery, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, and Baltimore all require permits for new or modified driveway construction, including driveway aprons on public right-of-ways.
- Driveways and parking pads must generally be paved with approved materials such as asphalt, concrete, brick, macadam, or stone block; permeable options may be allowed depending on county codes.
- Drainage regulations require driveways to slope properly toward approved stormwater systems and away from sidewalks or neighboring properties.
- Minimum and maximum driveway widths, setback distances from property lines, and right-of-way requirements are enforced at the county level, so always check the latest design standards for your specific county.
Paving Contractor Selection Tips
- Choose contractors with a solid reputation, verified license, and insurance (liability, workers’ comp, and property coverage).
- Ask for and contact multiple references to verify work quality and reliability—reputable contractors should gladly provide these.
- Always get detailed, written bids from at least two companies. Ensure proposals include all materials, scope of work, and whether permit acquisition is included.
- Contractors in Maryland cannot collect more than one-third of the contract price as a deposit.
- Check for complaints or disciplinary actions with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission before signing a contract.
Typical Maryland Paving Process
- Contractors begin with a site inspection to assess grading, drainage, and base requirements—critical for long-lasting asphalt or concrete surfaces.
- Excavation, grading, and installation of a stable sub-base (often crushed stone) follows; thickness and material quality are dictated by county or state standards.
- Asphalt or concrete is placed to the proper thickness and compacted for long-term durability. Proper slope ensures drainage away from structures.
- Sealcoating and surface treatments may be recommended to extend driveway or parking lot lifespan.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- How long has the contractor been in business with similar projects in Maryland?
- Is the company licensed and adequately insured?
- Can they provide recent references?
- Will they handle permits and inspections?
- Are there any potential hidden costs or special site considerations (e.g., poor soil, drainage concerns)?
- What warranties or follow-up maintenance services are offered?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Hiring uninsured or unlicensed contractors, risking liability or code violations.
- Failing to secure or verify permits and inspections before work begins.
- Not clearly specifying materials or contract details, resulting in subpar workmanship or disputes.
By following these guidelines and checking with the appropriate county offices for the most current regulations, property owners can ensure a successful paving project with long-term value.