Where Can I Buy Paver Sand in NJ?

Buy Paver Sand in NJ Are you planning to install a new patio, walkway, driveway or other similar surface in the near future? Stone pavers are extremely popular for purposes like these because they are extremely attractive and sophisticated.

They offer endless design and pattern options, are weather-resistant and are very long-lasting and durable.

In order to ensure that your stone paver surface maintains its beauty and integrity, it’s smart to fill the gaps between stones with paver sand.

To help you get the most out of your paver project we decided to breakdown what paver sand is, why it’s so important and where you can buy it in NJ.

What is Paver Sand?

Polymeric paver sand is a mixture of graded sand and a polymer compound which serves as a binder. This particular type of paver sand was developed in 1999 specifically for the purpose of filling in the joints between stone pavers.

Since it’s introduction to the market, polymeric paver sand has completely transformed the process of installing paving stones.

After placing the paver sand on top of the stone pavers, it is then carefully spread and worked into the cracks. From here, the sand must be sprayed down in order for the binder to activate and harden.

Why Should I Use Paver Sand?

Choosing not to use paver sand to fill in the gaps can lead to weed growth in addition to unsafe conditions. These conditions can arise as water accesses the gaps in the pavers, as it can wash away the base beneath the stones, causing them to sink or shift away from one another.

The material holds up against the elements, which means that it doesn’t have to be replaced frequently like other materials that may wash away in a heavy storm.

Finally, polymeric sand is low-maintenance and is strong enough to be power washed.

Where in NJ Should I Purchase Paver Sand?

In order for you to fully enjoy the many advantages that polymeric paving sand has to offer, you’ll need to purchase the material from a supplier that you can count on for superior products, service and prices.

You may find that paver sand can be purchased from chain retailers or online, but this may not be the smartest route.

There are a number of different formulas for developing polymer sand, with both organic and inorganic compounds being used as the binder.

It’s smart to buy from a supplier who’s familiar with the paver sand that it sells, as they can advise you of what the mixture is composed of.

Paver Sand in NJ

Braen Supply is one of the largest suppliers of paver sand in NJ. We’ve been working with homeowners and contractors for more than a decade to provide locally manufactured landscaping and construction products at wholesale prices.

We’re happy to answer any questions you may have and to assist you with your paver sand needs. Our paver sand is available for pickup or bulk delivery to your location in NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Why Should I Use Polymeric Sand for Pavers?

Polymeric Sand for Pavers If you’ve been making plans to use paving stones in your landscape, you’ve probably noticed that there’s some debate between contractors, landscapers and even homeowners in regards to the types of materials to be used during installation.

One of the biggest points of contention is whether you should or shouldn’t use polymeric sand.

Polymeric sand for pavers is anew products that has been introduced to the market.

This may leave you wondering whether you should stick with the tried and true method, or try a newer alternative.

We’ve decided to break down the pros and cons of using polymeric sand for your pavers.

Polymeric Sand

Before we can dig into the many advantages of polymeric sand for pavers, we must understand what polymeric sand actually is. This material is comprised of a high-tech mixture of both properly graded sands, as well as a polymer (the polymer is used as binding compound). This is a perfect blend for filling the joints of pavers. Since its inception in 1999, polymeric sand has completely revolutionized the process of installing pavers.

Benefits of Polymeric Sand

Polymeric sand is the ideal option for filling the joints between paving stones. Here’s a look at 3 of the top benefits of polymeric sand for pavers:

Benefit #1: Keeps Pavers in Place

Once your pavers have been installed, the last thing you want is for them to shift and pull away from one another. This creates an uneven surface, which is both dangerous and unsightly.

Polymeric sand works to combat these problems by not only binding the pavers together, but by remaining flexible. As the pavers shift the polymeric sand will shift with it, preserving the integrity of your paver path, walkway, patio, driveway or other surface.

Benefit #2: Withstands Water and the Elements

As an example, there are products that have been developed to re-soften when exposed to moisture so that any cracks could have the opportunity repair themselves. While this may sound like a smart concept, it actually only re-introduces problems that polymeric sand was designed to solve.

If the compound is subject to high levels of moisture, it may wash away, enabling pavers to pull apart from one another or sink into the base filler material below.

Polymeric sand, while flexible enough to withstand the expansion and contraction due to changing seasons, is water-friendly, and can even be power washed once it has been properly cured. This helps to preserve the longevity of your pavers, while allowing them to be even easier to maintain.

Benefit #3: Prevents Weeds & Pests

Have you ever seen a paving stone walkway with weeds and grass growing through the cracks? This is unattractive, and can compromise the pavers integrity. By utilizing polymeric sand to fill the joints between stones, plant life is unable to grow up in between the stones. The material also prevents ants from coming up between pavers.

It’s easy to see why it’s been popular to use polymeric sand for pavers throughout the years.

It’s durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. In order for you to enjoy all of the benefits that polymeric sand has to offer, though, it’s important that you buy from a local supplier who can provide you with the proper install techniques and determine the quantity needed.

Should I Use Polymeric Sand?

While there is technically no official answer in relation to using polymeric sand for pavers, we’ve found that many homeowners and contractors still prefer it. It has continued to prove useful and reliable and we recommend it as an option for your pavers.

If you’re still unsure we recommend speaking with a Braen Supply representative about your project and the different options you have. Together you’ll be able to determine the best fit for you.

Where Can I Find the Top Mason Supply Company?

Mason Supply Company Stone masonry projects can make a huge impact on the beauty of your home’s property – both inside and out.

Although you may have some ideas in regard to how you’d like to improve your home, you may not be as confident about where to go for information, advice and the materials that you need to execute your plans.

In order for you to create the interior or landscape of your dreams, it’s very important that you’re able to connect with a mason supply company that you can trust.

When all has been said and done you want your home improvement project to have been completed with the highest quality mason supplies, excellent craftsmanship and on an affordable budget. Without a reputable mason supply company on your team you may find that these objectives are not easy to meet. No matter how large or small your project will be, it’s smart to do your homework and find the top mason supplier in your area.

Transform Your Landscape

Masonry projects can completely transform the overall appearance of your home as there are many different features and projects you can focus on.

Countless homeowners have fallen in love with flagstones, concrete pavers, clay pavers and stone pavers for creating walkways, driveways and patios with a natural appeal. These types of materials can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any landscape.

The use of natural stone or cultured stones are extremely popular for the construction of fireplaces and fire pits. These finished projects draw loved ones near as a focal point for gatherings. These stones help provide a distinct yet natural feel that draws the attention of everyone.

Why the Right Mason Supply Company Can Make Your Project Even Better

When you begin preparing for your masonry project you need to ensure that you find the perfect supplier. This is so important because the best mason supply companies will ensure all of your questions are answered, they’ll stand behind the quality of their products and they will provide you with the best prices available.

The mason supplier that you choose should have an extensive history in the industry and should have an extremely knowledgable staff that can answer all of your questions.

These companies will have experience in advising customers on which masonry supplies are best for particular projects, how to go about handling a do-it-yourself project and they will have strong relationships with reliable contractors. They will be able to recommend a great contractor to you if your project warrants one.

Everyone has their own preferences in terms of the color, shape and size of masonry materials. That’s why it’s important to review the product offerings they have available on-site.

You want to work with a supplier who has an extensive selection available on-site. Having product available the day of your visit shows that they’re committed to providing you with the best experience possible.

Any mason supplier can show you their offerings on pallets in their yards but the top suppliers will be able to show you the product in use. They will have displays created with their various offerings to ensure that you can envision your project and the different uses available.

These suppliers will also have the capabilities to transport and deliver these materials to you in a timely manner. You’ll also likely find the best prices directly from a stone and mason supply company.

The Top Mason Supply Company

Braen Supply is the leading mason supply company in northern New Jersey. We proudly offer an extensive selection of mason supplies at wholesale prices to ensure you can create a stunning landscape that matches your budget.

We pride ourselves on always having an extensive product selection available on-site for you to select from and we can deliver it to you as soon as you need it.

Braen Supply has an extensive selection of product displays in their 6,500 square foot showroom, which is unrivaled in size and selection. This will help you visualize your project and not force you to guess what your project may look like based on the raw materials you’ll see outside.

We’ve been assisting homeowners and contractors with their projects for more than a decade, during which time we’ve acquired a great deal of knowledge and expertise in the masonry business. No matter what your project entails, what type of materials you require or what type of advice you’re looking for, we’re happy to work with you to make your dreams come true.

Where Can I Buy NDS Drains in New Jersey?

If you’re looking for a reliable drainage system to maintain the look of your landscape, there’s a good chance that you’ve already heard of NDS. As the nation’s primary source for storm water management solutions, NDS offers a wide range of high-quality products that can work for the various needs of property owners and contractors alike.

In order to help you determine which NDS drains are appropriate for your upcoming project, here’s an inside look at the different products that are available, what they do and where you can buy them.

NDS Drains: A Breakdown

Everyone has their own unique drainage needs, and as such, NDS has created several excellent solutions including:

EZflow Drains and EZdrain Drains

Among the most popular of NDS drains on the market, EZflow and Ezdrain solutions serve as a sustainable and gravel-free alternative to traditional French drain systems. A Poly-Rock aggregate bead which is generated from 100 percent recycled resins is utilized. A 10-foot slotted pipe is surrounded by the aggregate material and enclosed in a geotextile mesh.

What is truly unique about these systems is that the Poly-Rock is engineered with flow channels that work to increase void space. Ultimately, this speeds up water flow rates which allows for greater storage capacity. It also improves structural integrity against compaction. Since no gravel is required for installation, the labor costs and installation time are significantly reduced.

While both EZflow and EZdrain have similar flow rates, EZdrain is available in smaller diameter bundles. Both systems can be utilized to divert water away from a structure, to eliminate excess water from low points and high-saturation zones, to prevent an excess of water buildup in and around landscape areas and to collect and store roof run-off until it can be percolated back into the soil.

Flo-Well Systems

Flo-Well is a manufactured dry well system that is utilized for the collection, retention and on-site discharge of stormwater. Every unit is capable of holding up to 50 gallons of stormwater.

Flo-Well can be utilized independently or as a member of a larger storm water management system, offering users a gravel-free alternative to traditional dry well systems. These NDS drains, which are made completely of recycled materials are capable of holding far more water than pea gravel dry wells.

Trench and Channel Drains

Ideal for hardscapes, the NDS trench and channel drain systems work to offer users a tough, long-lasting solution for perimeter drainage in a wide range of applications. Traditionally, hardscapes experience more runoff than landscapes because there is inadequate water absorption. Trench and channel drains can drain areas around pools, spas, patio spaces and tennis courts/athletic fields, and are able to withstand loads from light foot traffic to heavier vehicular traffic.

Catch Basins and Grates

The NDS catch basins and grates collect surface water and protect the system from debris via a sump area. This prevents any pipeline clogging, and the grates can be matched to a specific property surface as they are available in numerous colors and in various shapes and sizes.

Pop-Up Emitters

These recycled emitters serve as the discharge point of the drain system. The spring-loaded caps open seamlessly and automatically to promote the free flow of runoff away from the pipe, then closing as flow diminishes.

Where to Buy NDS Drains

As an industry leader in providing excellent drainage solutions, Braen Supply is the place to go when you want to buy NDS drains at fair and competitive prices. Braen Supply offers a full range of NDS products that can be purchased at two convenient NJ locations.

When you need quality drainage systems, NDS is the smartest choice.

Where to Buy Driveway Drainage Grates in NJ

Buy Driveway Drainage Grates NJ In order to preserve the beauty of their landscapes, many homeowners make the decision to have a residential drainage system installed. In order for these systems to function properly, the correct driveway drainage grates must be utilized.

Sometimes referred to as catch basin grates or channel drain grates, these coverings work to prevent any large debris from entering and clogging the drainage system while still allowing for the adequate flow of water and runoff from the property.

So how can you determine which drainage grate is right for your needs? By following this easy guide to choosing and purchasing landscape drainage grates, you can complete your home runoff management system with confidence.

Choosing Driveway Drainage Gates

There are many different types of catch basin grates available for purchase in various shapes, sizes, and materials. In order to ensure that your grate will function properly without detracting from the appearance of your property, it is important that you consider factors such as:

Shape and Size

For obvious reasons, you will need to ensure that you find a grate that will conform with the shape and size of your current reservoir or drainage system. If you are installing a brand new drainage system on your property, you will need to determine whether a long, rectangular drain and grate would best suit your driveway, or if smaller rounded grates would work better.

Some homeowners elect to utilize multiple small-scale reservoirs to improve drainage around gardens or lawns whereas others prefer a single large grate. Be sure to discuss your property’s drainage requirements with your landscaping professional to ensure that your solution will be up to the task. In addition to considering the size of the grate itself, you must find a covering that has enough space between the openings to allow the free flow of water and runoff while still being able to capture debris.

Durability

The durability required for your channel drain grates will be heavily influenced by their location. Driveway drainage grates that are subject to continuous heavy foot and vehicular traffic, for example, will need to be strong enough to keep up with regular heavy loads.

Drain coverings that are constructed of cast iron, stainless steel or aluminum are generally quite durable and do not corrode easily. Smaller grates that are located along the side of a driveway or walkway, on the other hand, may not need to be constructed of material that is as durable. In this case, you may consider installing a plastic or PVC type drainage grate which will be cheaper than other materials.

Appearance

Of course, you do not want your grates to detract from the beauty of your property. As such, it is important to select a grate constructed of a material and in a color that will match the rest of your landscaping. One of the best options for an elegant appearance is a cast iron grate, which, when bronzed, can give off an antique aesthetic.

The Best Place to Buy Driveway Drainage Grates in New Jersey

If you are in need of catch basin grates, you will find that you won’t have to travel far in order to find an excellent selection of quality drainage coverings. Braen Supply sells a variety of channel drain grates from the brands that you know and trust, like NDS Products. The knowledgeable employees are more than capable of helping you to select the correct grate for your property. Braen Supply provides grates at the fairest and most competitive prices from two convenient New Jersey locations. You won’t find a better supplier for all of your drainage needs.

Photo Courtesy of NDS.

Stormwater Management: A NJ Homeowner’s Guide

stormwater-management-guide-nj — Photo is Courtesy of NDS

Stormwater is a major source of pollution in New Jersey and other northeastern states. In fact, the issue is so pressing that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has developed an extensive set of stormwater management rules to regulate municipal runoff.

But what are you doing about stormwater on your own residential property – are you contributing to the problem, or are you a part of the solution? It’s important for all New Jersey homeowners to take steps to implement their own stormwater management systems in order to protect the beauty and safety of our environment.

Where is My Stormwater Coming From?

During periods of heavy rainfall, or during the springtime thaw, local streets may become inundated with massive amounts of water. Although you may think that the runoff from your property is insignificant, when that amount is added to the stormwater from thousands of other properties, it can quickly become a major problem. Excess water may find its way off of your property from:

Rooftops – Rainwater and melting snow/ice may quickly run off of your rooftop and through downspouts onto your yard or driveway, where it begins to accumulate and pool.
Lawns – Without proper drainage systems in place, the ground can quickly become saturated, allowing excess water to collect and spill off onto the streets and/or other neighboring properties.
Hard surfaces – Sloped driveways or walkways without drainage will immediately force runoff water out into the streets and/or neighboring properties, as well.

What Problems are Associated with Stormwater?

So what’s the big deal with stormwater, anyway? Three major problems are associated with excess runoff:

Pollution – As stormwater travels across rooftops, driveways and lawns, it picks up numerous contaminants. These pollutants may include oil, grease, fertilizers, pesticides, pet wastes, soil, trash, etc. Eventually, this dirty water finds its way to local streams, lakes, rivers and oceans, causing harm to fish and other wildlife.
Flooding – When the municipal stormwater management system is overloaded with excess runoff, flash flooding may occur. This causes harm to streams and wetlands, causes erosion and can damage homes and businesses.
Water shortages – Without proper drainage, water cannot filtrate through the ground, preventing rainfall from replenishing groundwater and streams that are used for drinking water.

How Can I Improve Stormwater Management on My Own Property?

The more that individual homeowners can do to implement residential stormwater management systems, the better off we all will be. Here are two drainage solutions to consider for your property:

Downspout & Lawn Flooding – If runoff water from your roof, or a saturated lawn are major contributors to stormwater on your property, it’s a good idea to talk to a trusted landscaping contractor about the installation of a complete drainage system. Generally, the best way to manage water from the downspout is by installing a catch basin and grate at the base of spouts, or low points on your property. Debris is filtered out, water passes through a pipe system,] and the majority is captured in a dry well type system that allows water to slowly percolate back into the ground, eliminating saturation. A minimal amount of excess water can then be drained into the municipal storm drains.
Hard Surfaces – To prevent runoff from a flooded driveway or walkway, ask a reputable professional for information on how a channel drain can be installed into the concrete. From here, water is directed to a dry well type system, just as with a catch basin and grate stormwater management solution.

By finding the right stormwater management system(s) for your property, you can do your part to protect the environment and our natural resources.

Stormwater Management: Do’s and Don’ts

stormwater-management-guide Stormwater management is a big concern today. Standing water can impact your landscape and home in a negative way. There is a need to carry any lingering water away your property and into storm drains and sewers.

Allowing the maximum amount of water to seep into the ground is good for drainage design. In cases of heavy deluges, strong storms or prolonged wet spells, water may tend to accumulate around your landscape. Large amounts of water may not be able to naturally percolate into the ground. You will have to make sure it drains away from your yard.

Stormwater Management – Fix Your Yard

There may be a need to look at the existing drainage patterns in your yard. If the water does not drain properly you will have to take steps to correct this. Standing water will eventually impact your landscape and could possibly cause issues in your home, such as mold.

There are many things you can do to remedy this situation. There are also things you should avoid doing. Some do’s and don’ts are listed below.

What Not to Do

Take whatever measures you can to protect your home. Below are some things you don’t want to do when it comes to keeping your home safe from water runoff:

Don’t put sheds, fences, landscaping or other buildings in easements, ditches or around storm drains. Don’t impede the flow.
Don’t regrade your yard to interfere with current drainage patterns unless it’s to make runoff issues better.
Don’t put any type of obstacle at the ends of a pipe that will trap debris.
Don’t put any impervious covers or surfaces in your yard without taking into account how it will affect runoff.

Things You Should Do

There are some concrete things you should do when it comes stormwater management. Here are some steps you can take that are good for water runoff management:

Educate yourself and research as to what is good for managing stormwater.
Talk with professionals to make sure your property is compliant with all local codes and best practices to ensure proper water management.
Keep storm drains free of debris or any types of blockages.
Use landscaping techniques that allow more water to seep into the ground and less to runoff.
Drains are a big part of any stormwater management system. You have to move the water from your yard to the larger system. Consider some of the following:
- French drains – These are either a trench or ditch filled with rock or gravel or a perforated pipe the directs surface water and groundwater away from an area.
- Channel drains – This type of drain is simply a design that allows water to flow along the length of a ditch, swale, pipe or other structure into a sewer or storm drain. The water will flow quickly in this type of runoff design.
- Drain grates – These are used as a covering for holes that allow water to flow into pipes that carry water off. The main function of the grate is to keep larger pieces of debris from entering the drainage system.
- Catch basins – The catch basin allows water to flow through, but larger debris to settle at the bottom of the basin where it does not impede the flow.

When it comes to stormwater management and drainage solutions there are many do’s and don’ts. You want to do the things that are positive for water runoff.

Don’t make the situation worse by any means. Do your part and ensure your yard and home are protected from standing water.

Choosing the Right Landscape Drainage Solutions in NJ

choosing-drainage-solutions-nj Like all homeowners, you want your property to look great at all times. As such, you do whatever you can to tend to your yard, but how much thought have you given to your landscape drainage?

Although most of us are concerned with ensuring that our lawns and plants have enough water to thrive, a landscape with too much water can actually create even bigger issues.

In this post, we will highlight some of the most common problems associated with excess water, and how a proper landscape drainage solution can help.

Problem #1: Downspout Flooding

New Jersey residents are no strangers to extreme weather conditions. Heavy rains and melting snow can result in a flood of water being released from your home’s downspout. When this water has no place to go, it will pool around your home’s foundation, causing exterior damage, and leading to the possibility of interior flooding. Water can also accumulate on your lawn, causing serious damage. In this case, a catch basin that is flush with the ground is an ideal drainage solution. This basin will capture water and debris before directing the water away from your landscape via a drain pipe.

Problem #2: Puddles on Lawn

Have you noticed pools of water developing in your lawn when it rains? This often happens in low-lying areas of the landscape because the ground has become saturated by water and has nowhere to go. Unfortunately, this can ruin your lawn. Once again, the strategic placement of catch basins can eliminate these issues. The good news is that because these grates are flush to the ground and are available in different colors, you don’t have to worry about them detracting from the beauty of your property.

Problem #3: Puddles on Hard Surfaces

When water collects on the hard surfaces around your home, like your driveway or your front walkway, it can create big trouble for your house and property. As the water continues to build up in the lower areas of a hard surface, it will begin to flood, causing damage to your home’s structure and creating safety issues. During periods of fall and winter where freeze and thaw cycles are common, this can also lead to a buildup of ice. Having a long channel drain installed directly into your concrete will evacuate water before it can cause any damage to your property or landscape.

Problem #4: Drowning Plants

Is your sprinkler system, or heavy rainfall causing your plants to drown? When roots are inundated with too much water, it can cause significant damage to plants and can create health issues. To prevent excess water from making it to the root system, consider a landscape drainage solution like atrium grates. These grates are raised above the ground in order to continue performing well, even in cases where plant leaves, etc. may tend to block or cover a drain system that is flush with the earth.

Problem #5: Runoff Contribution

When runoff water from your roof, your hard surfaces or your lawn is directed down the street, it can eventually end up in local streams, lakes and rivers. Because this runoff can quickly become contaminated, this is a health risk. To avoid contributing to the problem, consider a landscape drainage solution that will retain and slowly filter water within your property without causing damage.

Regardless of the problems that you have been faced with, it is in your best interest to discuss your drainage solution options with a trusted professional. By speaking with a reliable landscaping contractor, you can get a better idea as to which landscape drainage systems are best for your property.

NJ Drainage Solutions: Driveway Grates & Catch Basins

drainage-grates Driveway grates and catch basins are important drainage solutions for your home and yard. These features, which work in tandem, help carry water excess water away from your home. Standing water, or water not drained properly, has the potential to cause many issues at your home.

Drainage solutions, utilizing both features, will allow you to safely and efficiently move excess water from your yard to the sewer system. New Jersey is no stranger to heavy rains and storms and as such, grates and catch basins are used often in the area.

What are Catch Basins & Driveway Grates?

A catch basin is a reservoir into which surface water drains into. It discharges into a sewer and catches and holds any debris that would not readily pass into the sewer.

A drainage grate, fits on top of the catch basin or directly on a pipe. The grate is a system of parallel bars set at right angles to each other. It allows water to flow into the sewer system but will stop larger pieces of debris. A grate will allow pedestrian and vehicular traffic to pass over it.

Water Issues

Water will typically drain due to capillary action. This is healthy for your soil and homes in general. Surface runoff, due to heavy precipitation or poor drainage design, or both, is detrimental to your soil, plants and any structures it ponds around.

It is vital to move excess water away from areas where it may cause issues. This is where catch basins and driveway grates come into play. These should be installed to optimize water movement from your landscape to the sewer system.

Considerations For Driveway Grates & Catch Basins

For drainage solutions you will have to take into account several things. Driveway grates and catch basins are pretty utilitarian and serve a specific purpose, but they can be fancied up just a bit, especially driveway grates.

Driveway grate design should take into account traffic that will cross over it. Vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians and animals need to be able to walk over your grate safely. Even the Americans With Disabilities Act has guidelines to the types of grating that can be used for certain applications.
The grate and catch basin have to be of the proper size to handle the flow of water coming from your property. Failure to insure proper size features may impact water flow in a negative way.
Harmful debris must be screened out by the grate. If large objects can get into the catch basin, water flow in the entire system can be hampered causing issues up and down the drainage system.
Small, organic material should be able to pass through the grate, into the catch basin and flow into the larger water drainage system. Leaves, twigs, grass clippings, small stones and such are not a hazard to sewer lines. If grate openings are too small it will get clogged and cease to function properly.
The grate and basin should be of sufficient strength to handle water flow and small objects washed into them.
Driveway grates can be tailored to your specific needs. There are grate designs and colors that will make any grate more pleasing to the eye.

Driveway grates and catch basins are important features when dealing with drainage solutions. These features work together to funnel water away from your home and landscape and into the sewer system. While you will probably need help in installing these features make sure you have a working knowledge of what they do and how they operate.

Photo Courtesy of NDS Drains.

Drainage Contractors in NJ – Prices & Questions to Ask

drainage-contractors-nj Drainage contractors can save the day if you have water issues in your yard. They may also be necessary if you plan to build a new home or if you upgrade an existing lot.

Choosing the right contractor for your drainage solutions is essential to have the job done right and making sure it lasts.

Questions to Ask a Drainage Contractor

When you decide you need to have drainage work done at your home it’s vital to pick a competent company to do the work.

Asking the right questions of a contractor will help you make a better decision. Following are a few questions to ask:

Are you licensed? – You need to pick a contractor that is licensed and bonded so that you are sure the people doing your work are competent. The contractor’s license number should be readily apparent on the website, correspondence, trucks and in other conspicuous places.
Do you have full coverage when it comes to insurance? – The company will need to show you proof of insurance for liability and worker’s compensation. Don’t take their word for it. Ask to see the certificate or card and check up on them with a phone call to the insurance company. The contractor will be digging in your yard and there could be issues with utilities, trees and other items. You don’t want to be responsible for this!
Do you itemize your bid? – Many firms prefer to give you a lump sum price for the entire project. You want to see what you are being charged for each part of the project. If you want to cut or add something you need to know how it will impact your cost. A contractor should not give you a hard time on this. They had to figure their cost line by line. It’s not any extra work. Be wary if they resist. They may be trying to hide something.
Is your bid an estimate or a fixed price? – Often the cost of a job is just an estimate. Your final cost could be higher depending on the circumstances. Ask the contractor to give you a fixed price. If not ask why they can’t. If there are too many unknowns on your project you may have to ask the company to describe what they plan to do. If additional work is needed you can do a change order.
Do you have references? – If the contractor is above board and good they will be more than happy to give you references to show off their work. Of course, most of the work drainage contractors do is underground but you can still inquire with the people who they did the work for.

Approximate Costs and Prices of Drainage Work

There is a wide variation in the cost of work done by drainage contractors. Giving specific figures is impossible due to the range of conditions at each home. Some of the factors affecting cost are:

How much soil and rock the ground contains.
Extent of what needs to be done.
Type of equipment needed to do the job.
Type of material used (PVC vs. metal; sand vs. gravel; etc.).
Time frame you need the work done.
Local codes and regulations.
How landscaping will affect the work.

Be Diligent Before Hiring

Hiring drainage contractors is a serious matter. If you have water issues in your yard you want the job done right. Ask the correct questions, get a fair price from a good contractor and have peace of mind knowing that your drainage solutions will be solved.