Paving your driveway is a big investment — one that should last 20 years or more with the right materials and craftsmanship. But choosing the wrong contractor can lead to costly repairs, uneven surfaces, and a lot of unnecessary stress.
So how do you make the right call?
Here are the seven most important things to look for when choosing a residential paving contractor in Rhode Island, with expert tips from our team at J. Perry Paving.
1. Start Local
Choose a company that knows Rhode Island’s weather, soil, and permitting rules. A contractor from out-of-state might underbid, but they won’t have the same experience with local conditions — or the same accountability.
Tip: Look for a physical address, not just a phone number or email.
→ See our Rhode Island residential paving services
2. Check Experience and Track Record
Any paving company can claim to be great — but do they have 20+ years of work and real customer reviews to prove it?
Ask:
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have before/after photos?
- Can I speak to past clients?
Perry Paving has served Rhode Island homeowners for over two decades. We’ve paved driveways in nearly every city and town across the state.
→ Learn more about us
3. Verify License and Insurance
This is non-negotiable. Your contractor should be fully licensed and carry liability and workers’ comp insurance. It protects both you and them if anything goes wrong during the project.
Don’t just take their word for it — ask to see documentation.
4. Get a Clear, Written Estimate
A professional contractor should provide a detailed quote that includes:
- Total cost
- Materials used (asphalt thickness matters!)
- Timeline
- Cleanup plans
- Payment terms
Avoid vague estimates or handshake deals. A contract protects you both.
5. Ask About Equipment and Crew
Reliable contractors invest in their equipment and staff. A professional crew with well-maintained machines gets the job done faster and with better results.
Warning Sign: If they say “We rent equipment as needed,” they may be less experienced than they claim.
6. Understand Their Warranty Policy
A good paving contractor should guarantee their work. At J. Perry Paving, we stand behind every project we complete. If something’s wrong, we fix it — period.
Ask about:
- Workmanship warranties
- What’s covered (e.g. cracks, drainage)
- How long the warranty lasts
7. Watch Out for Red Flags
Here’s what to avoid:
- Door-to-door “leftover asphalt” offers
- reviews or online presence
- Pressuring you to pay cash up front
- Unmarked trucks or subcontracted crews
Want more tips? See our upcoming post: How to Vet a Paving Company: Red Flags to Watch For
Why J. Perry Paving is Rhode Island’s Trusted Choice
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all paving. Every driveway gets a custom plan based on grade, use, and budget. Our reputation is built on word-of-mouth and honest work — and we show up when we say we will.
- Over 20 years of local experience
- Licensed, insured, and trusted
- Professional, uniformed crew
- Paving done right the first time
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best residential paving contractor in Rhode Island isn’t just about the price — it’s about trust, quality, and peace of mind. Ask questions, get clear answers, and don’t settle for shortcuts.
Contact J. Perry Paving today to speak with a team that treats your property like their own.