When homeowners in Pittsburgh call us to install or replace a driveway, one of the first things we explain is that the success of the job starts well before we bring in the paving equipment.
At Brant’s Asphalt, we pride ourselves on smooth, efficient projects—whether we’re working in Mt. Lebanon, Brookline, or up near North Park. That all begins with proper homeowner prep and communication. Too often, delays happen not because of weather or material shortages, but because key details weren’t ironed out early.
Here’s what we, as experienced Pittsburgh driveway contractors, need from you before we get to work—and how you can prepare to ensure a fast, professional finish.
Key Takeaways
- Property lines, permits, and HOA rules must be handled before any driveway work starts in Pittsburgh.
- Utility markings and driveway access need to be sorted early to avoid damage and equipment delays.
- Yard items, pets, and drainage issues should be addressed before installation to keep the project moving.
- Quick communication and neighbor notice help avoid holdups during the driveway construction process.
Property Line Confirmation and Local Permit Approvals
Before we start tearing out an old driveway or prepping a new foundation, we need to be certain where the property lines are and whether any city permits are required. In neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill or Shadyside—where lots are tightly packed and zoning rules are strictly enforced—we can’t rely on guesswork.
We often advise homeowners to consult their property survey or get a boundary check from the Allegheny County Assessment Office.
For most driveway work in Pittsburgh, especially if it involves altering sidewalks or curb cuts, a permit through the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) is also required. We can help with this, but the application has to come from you.
Utility Marking and Underground Clearance
The last thing anyone wants is to hit a gas or water line on day one.
That’s why we always require a full 811 utility marking before work starts. But what many Pittsburgh homeowners don’t realize is that we can’t schedule this until the work is officially greenlit and scheduled.
In older areas like Lawrenceville and the South Side, utilities often run shallow or off-pattern due to past renovations. You’ll need to give us a heads-up if you’ve had underground work done, like French drains or geothermal loops.
This avoids delays and keeps everyone safe.
Access for Equipment and Material Drop-Off
Not all Pittsburgh driveways are created equal—some are steep (hello, Beechview), some wind down tight alleys, and some require us to work around retaining walls or fences.
We need to know in advance what kind of access we’ll have.
If large trucks can’t reach your driveway due to narrow roads like those in Polish Hill or tight cul-de-sacs in Greenfield, we’ll need to bring smaller equipment or plan a material staging area nearby.
Homeowners should clear vehicles and any movable obstructions like basketball hoops or trash bins at least a day before the job starts.
Drainage Considerations Unique to Pittsburgh’s Terrain
With Pittsburgh’s hilly topography and unpredictable rain patterns, drainage is one of the biggest concerns we evaluate before laying asphalt. In areas like Highland Park or Carrick, where water runoff can be a serious issue, we often need to plan for proper slope and swales to direct water away from your home and toward the street or storm drains.
If your existing driveway has puddling or erosion problems, tell us beforehand—we can design a fix into the project. But we need to know early so we can adjust materials and grading plans accordingly.
HOA Rules and Neighborhood Restrictions
If you live in a community like Summerset at Frick Park or any development with a homeowners’ association, we need to know what restrictions might affect the project. Some HOAs limit working hours, require specific colors or finishes, or need board approval for driveway changes.
We’ve seen projects delayed weeks because of HOA red tape.
It’s always best for you to review your HOA rules ahead of time and send us any documentation that might affect design, scheduling, or materials.
How to Prepare for a Smooth Driveway Installation
Notify Your Neighbors in Advance
Driveway work can get noisy and disrupt nearby parking—especially in tight-knit areas like Bloomfield or Point Breeze. Giving your neighbors a heads-up isn’t just courteous; it helps avoid complaints or interference that could slow us down.
If we’re blocking a shared alley or using part of the street for equipment, let your neighbors know the schedule so they can plan accordingly.
Some neighborhoods also have informal rules about work hours, and early communication keeps everyone on the same page.
Move All Vehicles and Fragile Yard Items
On driveway installation day, we need a clear space to work. That means cars should be moved to the street or a neighbor’s driveway the night before. In parts of Pittsburgh like Regent Square or Dormont, where parking lots are already tight, this might require some coordination.
We also recommend moving lawn décor, planters, and anything delicate near the work zone. Vibrations from equipment can travel farther than expected, especially in older homes with shallow foundations.
Secure Pets and Limit Outdoor Access
We love pets, but we’ve had more than a few dogs try to “help” during a pour. To keep everyone safe, please make sure pets are secured indoors or in a fenced-off area away from the work zone. This is especially important in open-lot neighborhoods like Baldwin or Lincoln Place, where yards may not be fully fenced.
We also ask that children stay indoors or out of the area while the machinery is running.
Share Past Issues with Your Old Driveway
If your current driveway has had problems—like recurring sinkholes, frost heave, or tree root damage—let us know. In Pittsburgh’s freeze-thaw climate, particularly in higher elevations like Westwood or Stanton Heights, those issues can return if not addressed properly.
We’ll take your insights into account and adjust our base prep or material thickness to ensure a longer-lasting result. Even something like a cracked retaining wall nearby can signal deeper issues we should address before laying new asphalt.
Be Available for Walkthroughs and Quick Decisions
Throughout the process, we may need to make quick calls—adjusting the slope, confirming a design tweak, or handling a last-minute issue. Being reachable (by phone or in person) helps us stay on schedule.
If you’re going to be out of town or unavailable, consider designating a trusted neighbor or family member who can make decisions on your behalf.
Especially in areas like East Liberty or Troy Hill, where properties can have unique layouts, fast communication helps keep everything on track.
Get Your Driveway Project Started Right
Whether you need permits pulled, tricky drainage managed, or tight access handled, we’re here to guide you through it. At Brant’s Asphalt, we specialize in residential asphalt paving, resurfacing, and replacements built to last through Pittsburgh winters and hillside runoff.
Ready to upgrade your driveway without the headaches?
Call us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s make sure everything is in place before we break ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical driveway installation take in Pittsburgh?
A standard residential driveway project usually takes two to three days, including demolition, base prep, paving, and cleanup, depending on size, layout, and Pittsburgh’s unpredictable weather patterns.
Can you repair just a damaged section of my asphalt driveway?
Yes, we offer localized patching and sectional resurfacing when full replacement isn’t necessary, which works well for cracked or sunken areas in older Pittsburgh driveways.
What type of asphalt mix is best for Pittsburgh’s weather?
We use a hot mix asphalt blend designed for freeze-thaw resistance, ideal for handling heavy snow, rainfall, and steep grades found across many Pittsburgh neighborhoods.
Do you provide asphalt sealing after installation is complete?
Yes, we offer professional sealcoating services to protect new asphalt from water damage, oxidation, and road salt, typically applied 6 to 12 months after installation.
