When you’re investing in a new parking lot or commercial roadway, the last thing you want is to discover the contractor took shortcuts. Unfortunately, not all asphalt companies in Chattanooga play by the rules. Some cut corners to save money—leaving you with cracks, potholes, and drainage problems far sooner than you’d expect.
So, how can you tell if a commercial asphalt company isn’t doing the job right?
Let’s look at some clear signs your asphalt contractor might be skimping on quality—and how to protect your investment.
Key Takeaways
- Some asphalt companies in Chattanooga skip proper base prep which causes early cracking and damage from truck traffic.
- Low-grade or recycled asphalt is sometimes used without telling people which leads to faster wear in busy areas.
- Pouring asphalt too thin is a common shortcut that causes potholes to form quickly in high-traffic zones.
- Bad drainage design leads to standing water which breaks down asphalt faster especially near rivers or low spots.
- Avoiding permits and rushing curing times are red flags that can cost people money and reduce pavement lifespan.
They Skip Proper Base Preparation
In Chattanooga, the soil composition varies greatly between areas like Lookout Valley and Hixson. That makes base preparation critical. A shady asphalt company might rush or completely skip grading and compacting the sub-base, especially if it’s not immediately visible to the client.
Without a solid foundation, your asphalt won’t stand a chance against the weight of delivery trucks, fluctuating temps, or the frequent freeze-thaw cycles we see during East Tennessee winters.
If the contractor doesn’t spend time prepping the site before laying asphalt, expect early cracking and settling.
They Use Low-Quality or Recycled Asphalt Without Disclosure
Not all asphalt mixes are created equal, and unfortunately, some less-reputable contractors may cut corners by using low-grade or overly recycled materials without informing the client.
This can be especially problematic in high-traffic zones, such as around the Chattanooga Airport or the busy entrances of major shopping centers like Northgate Mall, where pavement is subjected to constant stress from heavy vehicles.
Over time, these inferior mixes often lead to premature wear.
Fortunately, with professional asphalt repair, these issues can be addressed effectively. Even better, a reputable contractor will start by using a high-quality asphalt mix tailored to your project’s demands—minimizing future problems and confirming long-term durability.
They Pour Thin Asphalt Layers
One common way some companies try to cut costs is by laying asphalt thinner than what the site truly requires.
In high-traffic commercial areas like Amnicola Highway—where heavy-duty vehicles like semi-trucks and utility fleets are the norm—even being an inch short on thickness can lead to rapid deterioration.
Often, the damage isn’t visible until ruts and potholes start forming, and by then, you’re already looking at expensive repairs.
The upside?
Resurfacing can be a highly effective solution to restore structural integrity without a full replacement. A reputable contractor will prevent these issues from the start by following proper thickness specifications based on your property’s traffic load and intended use.
Drainage Is Poorly Designed or Ignored
If your commercial property is located near the Tennessee River—whether it’s in the Riverfront district or around Alton Park—you already know how critical proper drainage is.
Unfortunately, when asphalt companies cut corners, they often skip essential steps like slope grading or installing effective drainage systems.
The result? Standing water that collects every time it rains. And pooled water is asphalt’s worst enemy, accelerating surface deterioration and leading to cracks.
Crack filling and sealcoating are great for extending pavement life—but only if drainage is done right. If you’re seeing puddles on new pavement, poor planning for Chattanooga’s frequent rainfall could be the real issue.
They Don’t Pull Permits or Follow Local Codes
Chattanooga has specific zoning and permitting requirements for commercial paving, especially in neighborhoods under revitalization or near historic districts like St. Elmo.
A cut-rate contractor might avoid the permitting process altogether to save time, but that can lead to fines or force you to redo the job later.
Always verify that your contractor is licensed, insured, and pulling the right permits—otherwise, you’re the one who could end up on the hook.
They Rush the Curing Process
Asphalt needs time to cure before it’s ready for traffic. In Chattanooga’s humid summer months, curing might take longer than usual. Some contractors, trying to impress with fast turnaround times, will allow traffic before the pavement is fully set.
This can lead to permanent indentations, surface scarring, and reduced lifespan, especially in busy areas like the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus or medical complexes near East Brainerd. A good company knows when to wait and when it’s safe to proceed.
They Leave Behind a Messy Job Site
It might seem like a small thing, but a messy or rushed cleanup job can be a sign of a bigger issue. Sloppy work areas, leftover debris, and unmarked hazards around commercial plazas like those on Gunbarrel Road show a lack of professionalism.
A company that respects your property will leave the site clean, safe, and ready for business as soon as the work is complete.
They Avoid Giving You a Detailed Contract
Any reputable commercial asphalt company should provide a clear, detailed estimate and contract that outlines the scope of work, materials, timeline, and cost.
If your contractor is vague or avoids putting things in writing, that’s a major red flag. Especially in areas with high property turnover like downtown’s Innovation District, you need documentation in case there are disputes down the road.
Don’t accept handshakes when thousands of dollars are on the line!
Don’t Let Corners Get Cut on Your Paving Project
You deserve asphalt work that lasts—without shortcuts or surprises.
If you’re managing commercial property in Chattanooga, from Red Bank to East Ridge, don’t gamble on your next paving project.
At Kleenco Construction, we take pride in doing things the right way, from proper base prep to long-lasting asphalt mixes designed for local conditions.
We’re fully licensed, insured, and familiar with all local codes and permitting requirements, whether your property sits along Brainerd Road or in one of the fast-growing industrial parks near Highway 153. We don’t just lay asphalt—we help protect your investment with top-tier workmanship and full transparency.
Ready to pave with confidence?
Contact us today to schedule a site visit or request a free quote for your next commercial asphalt project.
