6 Key Questions Before Hiring a Hardscape Contractor in Fredericton

Hardscaping enhances the function, aesthetics and value of residential properties in Fredericton. Projects like patios, walkways and retaining walls require experienced installation to thrive in the region’s climate and terrain. However, not all contractors have the expertise needed for jobs in New Brunswick’s capital city. Before committing to a hardscape company, homeowners must carefully vet the options. Key considerations include a contractor’s knowledge of local regulations, experience with similar Fredericton projects, and their methods for addressing drainage, disruption and materials suitability. Thoroughly evaluating contractors on these essential factors helps ensure homeowners achieve beautiful, long-lasting results.

Regulatory Compliance

It is important to ask any hardscape contractor you are considering in Fredericton about their familiarity with local regulations and permit requirements. Hardscape projects such as patios, walkways, and outdoor kitchens may require certain permits and approvals from the city.

A reputable contractor should be knowledgeable about Fredericton’s permitting process and regulations concerning materials, construction methods, and project specifications. They will be able to guide you on acquiring any necessary permits and ensuring the work meets all code and regulatory standards. Not following regulations can result in issues obtaining occupancy permits or demands from the city to make expensive corrections.

Local Experience is a must

When reviewing contractors, it is wise to ask for examples of similar hardscape projects they have completed within the Fredericton area. A contractor with recent, relevant experience working on properties in Fredericton will have invaluable familiarity with the region’s soil conditions, drainage issues, and materials best suited for the climate. They will better understand the specific challenges that come with hardscape installation amid New Brunswick’s changing seasons. Seeing photographs of comparable past local projects is reassuring that the contractor has successfully handled Fredericton-style yards and landscapes before. Their expertise makes problems less likely on your property.

Drainage and erosion control

Fredericton’s variable weather and hilly terrain make good drainage and erosion control particularly important for hardscape. You will want to check that any contractor you hire carefully considers how water will flow during heavy rain or snowmelt. Ask them to explain the strategies and materials they use to prevent standing water issues or erosion problems around the installation area.

Professional contractors follow strict guidelines to incorporate elements like channel drains, porous surfaces, protected grading, and geo-textile fabrics under stone or pavement to keep water moving away while safeguarding the land. They ensure designs work sustainably with the environment.

Minimization of disruption

Major hardscaping brings inevitable disruption, but a conscientious contractor takes steps to limit negative impact on neighboring properties throughout construction. Inquire about their methods for containing dust, debris, and noise within perimeter barriers. Request details on how equipment access and material staging are planned to avoid damage to plantings or compacting existing lawns. Experienced crews clean up thoroughly each day to keep the area tidy. Asking contractors to explain their process shows they are attentive to maintaining good rapport with nearby residents even during disruptive work.

Material suitability

Severe cold, heat, and precipitation necessitate hardscape materials engineered to weather New Brunswick’s climate exceptionally well with minimal maintenance. Contractors up-to-date on the latest products know which stones, pavers, concrete, or composites hold up against freezing, thawing, and road salts. They can advise on drainage aggregate and setting methods to prevent heaving from frost. Confirm any contractor under consideration has installed projects using materials proven durable under Fredericton’s challenging seasonal shifts. Choosing a contractor well-versed in suitable products dramatically cuts the risk of premature deterioration or need for replacements.

Client references

Before making a hiring decision, ask the hardscape contractor for two or three professional references from past Fredericton clients whose properties similar in scale, budget, and materials to your project. When contacting references, learn about the contractor’s organization, expertise demonstrated on the job site, quality of work, responsiveness to issues, and customer service interactions.

Positive reviews from fully satisfied local clients attest that the contractor delivers exceptional results and stands by their work. Check references conclusively to ensure a contractor meets high standards consistently for properties around Fredericton.

Summary

• Check that the contractor is familiar with local regulations and permit requirements for hardscape projects. Following the proper codes and approvals is important.
• Request examples of similar past projects the contractor has completed in and around Fredericton. Local experience is valuable for understanding soil conditions and material suitability.
• Ask how the contractor will ensure proper drainage and erosion control, which are especially important due to Fredericton’s weather and terrain.
• Find out about the contractor’s methods for minimizing disruption to the surrounding area and neighboring properties during construction work.
• Confirm they have experience working with hardscape materials designed to withstand Fredericton’s climate extremes like cold, heat, and precipitation.
• Request and contact professional references from past local clients to learn about the contractor’s work quality, customer service and responsiveness.

Doing your homework on a contractor’s regulatory knowledge, local experience, site planning abilities, materials expertise and client reviews/references will help you choose the best hardscaping partner for your unique Fredericton property needs.