How to Spot Quality Paving Work in Albany & Colonie
When it comes to paving in Albany and Colonie, not all work is created equal. Unfortunately, many homeowners and business owners don’t know what to look for until it’s too late — when cracks, potholes, or drainage issues show up just a year or two later.
At Egan Paving, we’ve spent over 50 years repairing projects that failed prematurely because of shortcuts. Here’s how to spot true quality paving work before signing a contract — and why choosing the right company in the Capital Region makes all the difference.
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The Foundation: Base Preparation
A strong driveway or parking lot starts with the base. If your paving contractor isn’t talking about excavation depth and compaction, that’s a red flag.
Signs of Quality:
Excavation to the proper depth (6–12 inches for most residential, deeper for commercial lots).
A compacted stone sub-base that supports heavy loads.
Even grading to ensure stability.
Warning sign: If you see asphalt being poured directly over dirt or a thin gravel layer, walk away.
Asphalt Quality & Thickness
Albany’s freeze-thaw cycles demand thicker, more durable asphalt than in milder climates.
Signs of Quality:
Asphalt laid at least 2–3 inches thick for residential driveways.
4–6 inches for commercial parking lots, depending on traffic.
Use of DOT-approved asphalt mixes that resist weather damage.
Warning Sign: If your contractor doesn’t specify asphalt thickness or materials, expect a short lifespan.
Drainage & Water Flow
Improper drainage is the #1 cause of premature pavement failure in the Capital Region.
Signs of Quality:
Sloped surfaces that guide water away from buildings and toward drains.
Seamless transitions into sidewalks and streets.
No low spots or puddling after rain.
Warning Sign: If you see puddles forming within a week of installation, poor drainage was baked in from the start.
Edging & Finishing Details
Details matter. Quality paving isn’t just about thickness — it’s about craftsmanship.
Signs of Quality:
Crisp, clean edges instead of ragged, broken lines.
Smooth transitions into adjoining surfaces.
Proper striping for parking lots with ADA compliance.
Warning Sign: If your driveway edges look unfinished or your lot isn’t striped correctly, the contractor cut corners.
Pro Tips: 5 Red Flags of Low-Quality Paving Work
Suspiciously Low Prices — If it sounds too good to be true, it is.
Unmarked Trucks or Crews — Legitimate companies brand their work.
No Written Warranty — Reputable contractors stand behind their jobs.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics — “We’re working in your area today” scams are common.
Lack of Local References — A trustworthy company can show recent work in Albany, Colonie, or Schenectady.
For more on scams, check out our guide to avoiding paving scams.
Case Example: A Colonie Driveway Do-Over
One Colonie homeowner hired a cut-rate crew for a long driveway project. Within the first year, cracks appeared, and water was pooling near the garage.
Egan Paving was called in to fix it:
We excavated to the proper depth.
Installed a high-compaction stone base.
Applied fresh asphalt with proper grading.
The result: a driveway that has lasted over a decade without major issues.
Why Albany & Colonie Homeowners Choose Egan Paving
With half a century of experience across the Capital Region, Egan Paving has earned its reputation by doing the job right the first time. From compact city lots in Albany to wide suburban driveways in Colonie, our approach is tailored for lasting performance.
Our work stands out because we prioritize:
Local expertise
Premium materials
Professional crews
Guaranteed results
📞 Don’t risk your investment — choose proven quality.
