Question: Why do some asphalt paving contractors specify thicker asphalt than others?

Answer:
This is a common source of confusion when reviewing paving proposals, as there is no industry-wide standard for how asphalt thickness is stated on private projects. In many cases, the thickness is actually the same—it is simply being stated differently, either as pre-compaction (before rolling) or post-compaction (after rolling).

For example, one contractor may quote 2½” of asphalt for a recap while another may quote 2”, without clearly indicating whether the thickness is measured before or after compaction. In this case, the difference is only in how it is described, not in the finished result. Once the asphalt is compacted, the finished thickness is the same 2”which is what ultimately matters.

That said, there is something important to watch out for when comparing paving proposals. If a contractor specifies significantly thicker asphalt than everyone else at a comparable—or lower—price, that is a major red flag. In most cases, it is not possible to spend a lot more on materials than competitors without charging more and still make a profit. When the numbers do not add up, something is wrong.

Some paving contractors specify unusually large asphalt thicknesses as a sales tactic to persuade customers into hiring them by creating the impression that they are getting more material, better value, or a superior job. In our experience, contractors who promise significantly more asphalt than others—without charging more for it—often end up delivering less.

When a contractor is willing to misrepresent asphalt thickness, it raises reasonable questions about what else they may be willing to misrepresent. Basic due diligence may reveal additional concerns, such as licensing issues, not actually being a local Virginia company, limited experience or time in business, or a lack of verifiable references or customer reviews.

Question: Why do paving proposals for the same job vary so much in price?

Answer:
This situation is pretty common when obtaining paving proposals and can be confusing for property owners.

Paving proposals can vary for several reasons. Some contractors are better equipped for certain sized projects than others, allowing them to work more efficiently and complete jobs faster. In some cases, a contractor may also offer better pricing when nearby projects can be completed together, reducing mobilization time and costs.

In addition, proposals may include different scopes of work that, at a glance, appear the same. Beyond that, pricing differences are often tied to the overall quality of work that will actually be performed. Established, licensed, and insured contractors with experienced crews, quality equipment, and a proven track record of high-quality work and honoring warranties typically have higher operating costs than those operating under a different business model, and that difference is often reflected in the final price.

When comparing proposals, it’s important to look beyond the price and understand what level of quality, durability, and experience you’re actually paying for.
The lowest price and the best value are not always the same thing. Understanding the difference is important when comparing paving proposals.