Short version: these guys are amazing. We would use them again.
Longer version: We needed to replace a 50 year-old concrete driveway. Tree roots, water, and time had taken their toll, and the cracks could no longer be ignored. Pavers were selected, but who should we hire to do the work? Asked friends and neighbors, looked at Yelp, and solicited 4 bids. There was a 30% spread between the high and the low; Bouton came in near the lower end of the range, but not the lowest.
Gary came out at least 3 times before the contract was signed, each time working with us to refine what we wanted. No pressure sales like some of the large firms, just listened and offered feedback and suggestions. He reminded us of little things, like placing 3" sleeves under the driveway that would allow us to later run irrigation and electrical to landscaping on the other side. When we decided to fix a carport, and sandblast a slippery porch, he recommended other contractors. Very knowledgeable and helpful.
The crew(s) that did the work were amazing: one group to demo the existing driveway (concrete, asphalt, and 'mature' landscaping), another to excavate and prep the area with compacted base rock and sand (repeatedly checking drainage slopes), another to lay the pavers, and another to do some aggregate concrete. All worked hard, did impressive work, and made sure the site was cleaned up every nite. There are some real artisans on Bouton's staff. The paver placement around corners and on curves was inspired, and the exposed aggregate work perfect.
The job was spec'd as a 2-3 week effort; but it ended up taking less than 2 weeks. All in all, a great job. read more