A paving contractor is a business that builds paved surfaces like roads, sidewalks, and concrete floors. Larger projects, such as airport runways, are also undertaken by them.
Homeowners, businesses, and government agencies hire these companies to pave new surfaces or repair old ones. Many paving companies specialize in either residential or commercial work, though depending on the scope of the project and the equipment needed, some may perform both.
To secure new projects, the residential paving contractor must meet with homeowners and provide estimates. He could be hired to lay a new driveway, patio, or concrete floor, as well as to repair structures like steps and walkways. Some businesses specialize in landscape paving, which includes both the installation of poured surfaces and the installation of stone products such as pavers or outdoor tiles.
Commercial paving contractors usually offer job pricing in the form of a bid, with the lowest bidder receiving the job. Instead of reporting directly to the owner in a commercial setting, the paving contractor usually reports to a general contractor or construction manager. In a new development, he might be in charge of pouring floors, parking lots, or walkways. Contractors working on municipal projects may build new roads or sidewalks, or repair existing paved surfaces with potholes, cracks, and other signs of damage.
Those considering a career as a paving contractor must be willing to work outside in all types of weather. Because much paving work is done while traffic passes nearby, they must be at ease working on busy roads. Many paving contractors must be trained in these areas, so having some experience with flagging and road safety is beneficial. Workers must be willing to work in dirty, noisy, and crowded environments, as well as coordinate with other trades throughout the duration of a project. Those working with hot asphalt should be aware of the potentially toxic fumes and extreme heat.
The majority of paving work is done with heavy machinery. A paving contractor may use a paving machine or an excavator to smooth out a newly laid road surface. Concrete trucks keep concrete and other paving materials mixed and ready to pour, while large tamping machines help flatten out dirt or gravel surfaces. A dump truck or tractor may also be used to transport stones, gravel, or asphalt, as well as excess dirt and waste products.