Homes and cottages with steep inclines and rough terrain can be difficult – nigh impossible – for those with mobility issues to navigate.
It’s a situation many deal with daily. It even leads some to sell their properties. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Expertly designed and installed asphalt golf cart paths can be a fantastic solution, says Niki Pickett, owner of Ital Paving.
“We specialize in custom projects and unique paving jobs where you can’t work with regular paving equipment,” says Niki. “A client will say it’s too complicated. But it’s not too complicated, it’s about coming up with a solution that works best for your environment and for you. Everyone’s needs are different.”
Factors to consider include the grade of the property and surrounding terrain, which often leads Ital Paving’s experienced team to build the paths by hand, with a little help from a track skid steer to port the asphalt.
“In most cases, the paths are being installed on steep hills leading to the waterfront and are no bigger than eight feet wide, at best,” explains Niki. “Paving machines can’t go down these types of inclines and are too big to create these narrow and sometimes winding paths. Every single golf cart path is done by hand.”
Ital Paving has helped more than one person begin to enjoy their property again by installing asphalt paths that are easy to traverse.
“It’s an amazing feeling helping people live again,” says Niki. “One client said that we gave them their freedom back. It makes you feel good to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”
Planning is key
Being efficient and planning for future projects, like a new driveway or asphalt paths around a property, is essential to keeping budgets in check.
It’s why Niki recommends booking months – even a year – in advance. Knowing the scope and timing of the project helps Ital Paving to be efficient and cost effective.
“For example, if a client says in spring that they want the paving done in August, we’ll tell our supplier that we need this price in August even though we’re signing them up in spring,” explains Nikki. “They’ll save money on material costs by planning the project in advance and it guarantees it will get done when they want it.”
It is also important to factor in potential delays when coordinating with other contractors – for example, landscaping that coincides with a paving project. She says their team understands the situation and can adapt as needed.
“We’re flexible and can be fluid as long as we have an estimated date to do the work.”
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI | PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
