Standard Driveway Replacement Process in Ontario & How To Spot a Scam!

Okay, so you're interested in getting your asphalt driveway redone, but every contractor you call seems to have a different story about the process, and you’re left wondering what’s true. Sound familiar? We’re here to clear things up. This guide will walk you through the real standard driveway replacement process in Ontario and help you spot common scams.

–Understanding each step will not only help you recognize quality workmanship but also flag red flags when hiring a contractor.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Quote

• What to Expect:
  It all starts with a call and then a consultation. The contractor will inspect your existing driveway and provide a budget price followed by an on-site inspection.

• Avoiding Scams:

  • Watch out for door-to-door salesmen offering “leftover asphalt” deals. These “deals” usually leave you with a driveway worse than the one you started with.

  • The on-site consultation should include a conversation about materials, scope of work, budget, and a clear timeline.

  • Be cautious of contractors who put up a yard sign on your property right after the first meeting. It might mean they’ll tear up your driveway but then delay finishing it until they can drum up enough business in your area to make it worth their time.

  • Beware of high down payments, especially after the driveway is ripped out. Reliable contractors in Toronto usually don’t require upfront payments for standard driveway jobs. In fact, Pavemar Paving gets 50+ calls per year to complete work abandoned by unreliable contractors who took off with a down payment after they removed the asphalt.

  • Check reviews! Look for a good history of genuine reviews to ensure you’re hiring a reputable company.

  • Ensure the company you are dealing with is truly who they say they are...In the past we've been impersonated by lowlife companies trying to piggyback off of our 30+ year reputation.

    

  • Watch for business emails ending in “@gmail.com” or “@hotmail.com.” and etc... If a company doesn’t even spend $8 per month to have a custom business email...it could mean that they change their contact info often or that they don't care to reinvest in their business

  • Lastly, avoid quotes that seem too good to be true—they usually are.

Step 2: Demolition and Removal of Old Driveway

• What to Expect:
  The old asphalt or concrete will be broken up and removed, leaving a clear base for your new driveway.

• Pro Tip:
  Make sure your contractor is clear about whether they’re doing a full replacement or just a resurface. If it’s a full replacement, the old asphalt should be removed completely before paving. Resurfacing over damaged layers can lead to problems down the line and often times you'll get less asphalt than you need.

Step 3: Preparing the Base Layer

• What to Expect:
  The sub-grade of gravel should be compacted and inspected for flexing under weight by more than 30mm.

• Key Checkpoint:
  Most driveways in Toronto have been around for over a decade and the sub-grade has settled through numerous freeze-thaw cycles. Typically, you can pave the same day the asphalt is removed. However, if you notice water coming up onto your old driveway or wheel ruts in excess of 4 inches, extra care may be needed, including full excavation and gravel replacement.

• Avoiding Scams:
  95% of driveways don’t need to be left open to "settle" after the old asphalt is removed. If your sub-grade wasn’t in poor condition, a contractor claiming it needs weeks to settle is likely stalling or trying to gain some free advertising by sticking their yard sign in your lawn until they show.

Step 4: Grading and Slope Adjustment

• What to Expect:
  The contractor will grade the base to ensure proper water drainage, creating a slight slope away from your home when possible.

• Pro Tip:
  Ask about grading plans during the consultation to ensure your contractor knows what they’re doing. Pavemar Paving uses rotary laser levels to ensure proper drainage on projects with demanding slope requirements.

Step 5: Installing the Asphalt Layer

• What to Expect:
  Hot asphalt is poured and spread evenly over the base. It’s then compacted with a roller to create a smooth, durable surface.

• Quality Indicator:
  A standard driveway should have at least 2 inches of compacted asphalt for optimal strength and durability. We always lay a minimum of 3 inches of asphalt out of the spreader and our rollers compact it to an average of 2.25 inches - the same thickness as an interlocking brick.

Step 6: Final Rolling and Finishing Touches

• What to Expect:
  The surface is rolled again to ensure a smooth, even finish.

• Avoiding Scams:
  If a contractor rushes through this step, it’s a red flag. Proper finishing is key for long-term performance.

Step 7: Curing and Setting Time

• What to Expect:
  Your new driveway needs about 24-48 hours to set, so keep it clear of vehicles or heavy equipment during this time.

• Maintenance Tips:
  Avoid parking heavy vehicles on the driveway for at least a week to ensure it fully cures.

• In the warmer months it's important to avoid dry steering your tires on your freshly paved driveway, even after the first 48 hours, to avoid tire scuffs. Although tire scuffs may cause concern, they are superficial imperfections that do not impact the structural integrity of your driveway. Most tire scuffs wear away within the first year of installation and you won't even be able to tell where they were.

Step 8: Clean-Up and Inspection

• What to Expect:
  The contractor should clean up the site and remove any debris. A final inspection will ensure that the job meets your expectations.

• Pro Tip:
  Ask if the company uses a power sweeper. Driveway replacement is a heavy-duty job, and proper cleanup is crucial to avoid a lingering mess.

Understanding the standard driveway replacement process can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential scams. If a contractor skips steps, rushes the job, or refuses to provide clear details, consider it a red flag. Reliable contractors are transparent, professional, and committed to quality work. At Pavemar Paving, we take every step seriously to ensure your driveway is built to last. Ready to start? Reach out today for a free consultation!