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Commercial Snow Removal Your Way: How to Choose the Right Service Level in Prince George, BC

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:30:04 GMT

Winter in Prince George isn’t for the faint of heart.

From bone‑chilling cold to heavy snowfall that seems to arrive overnight, keeping your property safe and accessible in Prince George, BC is essential during the winter season. Snow removal, salting, sanding, and sidewalk shoveling can't wait during the winter months.

But here’s the thing: not every property needs the same level of service.

At Laser Pavement Solutions, we know that snow removal isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all job. That’s why we’ve built three service levels designed to match your needs, your budget, and your tolerance for winter chaos. Whether you want a hands‑off, maximum‑protection approach or you’d prefer to have a more flexible contract, we have you covered.

Why Service Levels Matter in Prince George

Choosing the wrong snow removal plan is is like wearing tennis shoes to a formal dinner. Sure, they're shoes - but you might not like the result. The right plan will:

Reduce liability risks for slips and falls.
Keep your property consistently accessible.
Help you budget with confidence.
Match your tolerance for snow accumulation and response times.

Our goal is simple: give you options so you can get exactly what you need without overpaying or under‑protecting your site.

Option 1: The White Glove Service: Maximum Coverage for Commercial Snow Removal

If you want the “set it and forget it” experience, this is your plan.

Our White Glove Service is designed for property managers and business owners who want total peace of mind all winter long.

Here’s what you get:

Active site monitoring, 7 days a week - We keep an eye on your property so you don’t have to. We visit the property every day and apply touch-up service as needed.
Unlimited plowing and de‑icing are included in your fixed contract price.
Optional unlimited snow shoveling for sidewalks, stairs, and ramps.
Proactive service: we mobilize before conditions get risky.

This plan is perfect in Prince George, BC for high‑traffic commercial sites, industrial sites, medical facilities, and properties where safety and uptime are non‑negotiable. You’ll never have to check the weather and wonder if your snow removal contractor will show up... we're already there.

Option 2: The Standard Seasonal Contract: Reliable, Trigger‑Based Service for Commercial Snow Removal

Want unlimited service without the full‑time monitoring? The Standard Seasonal Contract gives you most of the benefits of White Glove but with a slightly different approach.

What’s included:

Unlimited plowing and de‑icing once the agreed‑upon trigger depth is reached.
Optional shoveling services for sidewalks and ramps.
Fixed‑price stability so you can budget without surprises.
Automatic triggers for mobilizations built into the contract - but without the active site monitoring.

Here’s the difference: We only mobilize once snowfall hits your chosen trigger depth (for example, 1 inches). You’ll still get unlimited service within that agreement, but you’ll be responsible for keeping an eye on your property between snowfalls.

This plan is ideal for businesses with moderate traffic or owners who want predictable costs but can handle occasional monitoring themselves.

Option 3: Per Event Service: Pay Only When We Mobilize for Commercial Snow Removal

Our Per Event Service is the most flexible (and variable) option for snow removal in Prince George, BC. You pay a flat rate each time we plow and/or de‑ice.

What you should know:

You decide when we mobilize, based on your agreed‑upon service triggers.
There’s no fixed monthly cost - just a set rate per service.
Cost can fluctuate. In low snowfall years, you may save money; in heavy winters, you may spend more.

This option works best for properties with low‑traffic areas, limited liability concerns, or owners who don’t mind waiting for the agreed‑upon service time. It’s a popular choice for budget‑conscious customers — but keep in mind that in a record‑snowfall year, the total could exceed a seasonal plan.

How to Choose the Right Snow Removal Plan in Prince George, BC

Speak with us at Laser Pavement Solutions, and we'll guide you in detail how to make the right choice for your property for snow removal in Prince George BC.

In the meantime, here are some questions to ask yourself prior to speaking with us:

How critical is safety on my site? If even small amounts of liability risks are a concern for you, White Glove is the way to go.
How clean and "serviced" do I want my property? Most of our clients work with us on White Glove or Standard Seasonal to ensure the service level is enough for them.
How much weather‑watching am I willing to do? If you’re okay monitoring your own site, Standard or Per Event could work. However, if weather conditions change quickly - such as sudden melting and freezing - the onus will be on you to alert us with a service request (outside of the snow trigger.)
Do I need predictable costs? Fixed‑price contracts (White Glove & Standard) make budgeting easy. Per-event contracts carry risk.

Why Clients Choose Laser Pavement Solutions for Commercial Snow Removal

It’s not just about having a plow and a truck — it’s about having a process. When you work with us, you’re getting:

Top‑tier equipment that’s built for speed and efficiency.
Clear communication through our Basecamp system. No wondering if we got your message, as the easy-to-use technology alerts our entire winter operations team.
Liability‑focused operations: Our job is to make sure your customers and employees are safe.
Transparent reporting with time‑stamped logs and photos before and after service.
Pre‑ and post‑season inspections to protect your property before and after the contract.
Post‑winter sweeping is included in all seasonal contracts (unless declined)
24/7 availability: Because snow doesn’t care what time it is.

Final Word: Snow Removal on Your Terms

Whether you want the all‑inclusive, fully monitored White Glove Service or prefer the flexibility of Per Event pricing, the key is choosing a plan that fits your property’s needs for snow removal in Prince George, your tolerance for risk, and your budget. At Laser Pavement Solutions, we’re here to make sure you get exactly that.

Ready to pick the snow removal plan that’s right for you?
Click the "Get a quote" button at the top right corner of this page and speak to one of our snow removal experts today.

Your Guide to Pothole Repair in Prince George, BC

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:30:05 GMT

If you’ve spent a winter in Prince George, you’ve likely met an unpopular local resident - the pothole.

These craters can appear overnight, tear apart your pavement, damage vehicles, and create dangerous tripping hazards. What causes them, and what should you do about them?

Here’s your straightforward guide to pothole repair in Prince George, BC , and why Laser Pavement Solutions is the trusted choice for fixing them correctly and quickly.

What Causes Potholes in Parking Lots?

Potholes are the result of a freeze-thaw cycle that’s all too common in northern BC.

Here’s how it works:

Cracks develop in the pavement from wear, tear, and weather.
Moisture gets into cracks in your asphalt - usually from rain or melted snow.
Temperatures drop , and the water freezes. Ice expands, putting pressure on the pavement.
As it thaws , the ice melts, creating voids beneath the surface.
Repeated vehicle traffic causes the weakened pavement to collapse into a full-blown pothole.

Even in the summertime, however, constant water will erode the base that sits underneath the asphalt - that combined with traffic will cause potholes.

And in Prince George, where we often get dramatic shifts in weather, this process can happen again and again in the same spot.

Why Fixing Potholes Promptly Matters

Some property owners wait to deal with potholes until spring or even the end of the season... but that delay comes with a price.

Here’s why pothole repair should be a priority :

Prevent Liability: Potholes are a tripping hazard for pedestrians and a risk for vehicle damage. If someone gets hurt, the property owner could be liable.
Save Money: A small pothole is cheaper to fix than a large one. Delaying repairs allows water to keep eroding the sub-base, making the repair more expensive.
Protect Your Brand: A poorly maintained parking lot creates a negative impression for customers, tenants, or employees. People love to complain about potholes on Facebook in our market!
Extend Pavement Life: Prompt pothole patching is part of a strong asphalt maintenance strategy that helps your pavement last longer.

How Laser Pavement Solutions Fixes Potholes (The Right Way)

At Laser Pavement Solutions , our pothole repair approach focuses on long-term performance and transparency - not quick band-aid solutions that will fail quickly.

Here’s how we typically handle pothole repairs in Prince George:

1. Assessment & Quoting

We provide a free site inspection to assess the damage. You’ll receive a clear quote with scope and timelines — no surprises, no hidden fees.

2. Cut & Clean

We cut out the failed asphalt and clean the pothole thoroughly. This ensures a strong bond between old and new material.

3. Base Repair (If Needed)

If the sub-base is compromised, we repair it before patching. This step prevents the same pothole from reappearing next season.

4. Patch the Pothole

We use hot mix asphalt for most repairs. It’s durable, reliable, and built to withstand northern BC’s brutal freeze-thaw cycles. However, we can also use a premium cold-applied product that has similar longevity to traditional hot mix. This allows us to patch holes 12 months a year.

5. Compaction & Clean-Up

Our crew compacts the asphalt using high-grade rollers and ensures your site is left clean and professional-looking. All work is documented with time-stamped photos if needed for reporting or liability.

If you have unique site needs or traffic challenges, we can also offer:

Infrared patching - Patch worn asphalt with an innovative infrared repair.
Cold mix patches for emergency or winter fixes
Preventive maintenance strategies to reduce future potholes

Prince George, BC Pothole Repair Experts You Can Count On

Laser Pavement Solutions is a local expert in asphalt maintenance and repair, trusted by commercial and municipal clients across northern BC. We don’t just fix the hole - we fix the root of the problem and help you avoid future surprises.

Our crews are trained, our communication is proactive, and our systems are built to keep your lot safe, smooth, and looking professional.

Let’s Fix That Pothole Before It Gets Worse

Whether it’s one small divot or several major hazards, Laser Pavement Solutions is ready to help .

Click the “Get a quote” button in the top right corner of this page and speak to our team about fast, professional pothole repair in Prince George, BC.

8 Benefits to Sealing Your Parking Lot

info@laserpavementsolutions.ca (Cam Roberts) — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 16:30:00 GMT

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

Most of us accept that truth when it comes to our health or our vehicles—but when it comes to asphalt, many properties are still managed with a reactive, “wait-until-it-breaks” mindset.

The result? Premature failures, costly repairs, and unnecessary liability.

At Laser Pavement Solutions, we’re on a mission to change that. And when it comes to pavement maintenance strategies that deliver exceptional returns for minimal cost, crack sealing leads the pack .

Why Crack Sealing Matters

Whether it’s a municipal road, airport apron, commercial parking lot, or strata property, asphalt begins to crack over time. Prince George’s climate - with its freeze/thaw cycles, rain, and heavy snow - makes this happen faster.

Left unsealed, these cracks allow water to penetrate into the sub-base. When the water freezes, it expands, causing the asphalt to heave, shift, and deteriorate rapidly.

Over time, these small cracks turn into potholes, alligator cracking, and costly structural issues. These are issues that could’ve been avoided with a simple crack sealing application .

What Is Crack Sealing?

Crack sealing involves applying a hot rubberized material into existing cracks in the asphalt. This flexible sealant moves with the pavement, preventing water from entering and keeping out debris.

It is a lower cost maintenance service compared to asphalt sealcoating - but packs a huge bang for your buck.

The High-Value Benefits of Crack Sealing

Crack sealing is one of the smartest pavement investments you can make. Here’s why:

Prevents Major Repairs : By sealing cracks early, you stop the progression of damage before it reaches the sub-base. This significantly extends the life of your pavement.
Reduces Liability : Fewer cracks mean fewer tripping hazards, fewer potholes, and less exposure to insurance claims from tenants, customers, or the public.
Fits Your Budget : Compared to repaving or patching, crack sealing costs a fraction of the price per square foot. If you are on a tight budget, include crack sealing inside of it.
Complements Sealcoating : Crack sealing is the perfect prep step before sealcoating. When combined, these two services provide a comprehensive maintenance shield for your pavement.
Minimal Disruption : With fast cure times and compact equipment, most crack-sealing projects can be completed with minimal disruption to your operations. Our crews work 24 hours a day in parking lots across Central and Northern BC.

Why Property Owners Skip It

When we speak to property managers, airport directors, or facility supervisors in Prince George, we consistently hear the same two things:

“We’re too busy.”
“No one has ever offered us a proper maintenance plan.”

We get it. You’ve got enough on your plate. But crack sealing is exactly the kind of proactive, high-impact maintenance that saves you time and money in the long run.

And with Laser Pavement Solutions, it’s easy to schedule, budget, and complete.

A Smarter Way to Manage Pavement - Contact Us Today!

Contact our team today at www.laserpavementsolutions.ca and ask about our crack sealing services. Let’s stop the damage before it starts - and make your pavement last longer, look better, and perform the way it should.

Airport Line Painting – Critical for British Columbia Airports

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 23:20:59 GMT

Airport Line Painting – Critical for British Columbia Airports

In British Columbia, airport operators know that safety, compliance, and funding all go hand-in-hand. And when it comes to airside operations, line painting isn’t just paint - it's precision, visibility, and safety. It’s also one of the key components needed to meet Transport Canada’s TP312 standards.

Whether it’s a regional airport, airpark, or a certified facility with commercial flights, clear and accurate pavement markings are essential for:

Pilot guidance during takeoff, landing, and taxiing
Meeting Transport Canada and NAV CANADA regulations
Avoiding audit issues or compliance delays
Keeping staff and passengers safe

Meeting Strict Standards: TP312 Compliance

Airports in Canada must follow TP312, a complex set of design and operational standards from Transport Canada. These include detailed specifications for everything from runway markings to apron safety lines.

At Laser Pavement Solutions, we know the standard - and we follow it. That means the work we do on your apron, taxiway, or runway isn't just high quality… it’s compliant.

Why Line Painting Matters for BCAAP Funding

The BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) helps fund infrastructure upgrades at airports across the province. Many of these applications include pavement maintenance and airside safety upgrades. But here’s the problem: meeting the requirements for it can be a challenge.

That’s where we come in.

We help airports across BC by:

Assessing their pavement needs (including markings)
Providing Class B estimates required for funding submissions
Focusing on preventative maintenance strategies like line painting, crack sealing, and sealcoating inside the grant funding

These strategies extend the life of your pavement, help prevent costly capital replacement projects, and align with the BCAAP's funding priorities.

Simple, Compliant, Cost-Effective

If you operate or manage a BC airport, here’s the bottom line:

✅ Clear pavement markings improve safety
✅ Compliant work reduces regulatory risk
✅ Maintenance-based funding requests are often more successful
✅ We make the process simple—no guesswork, no wasted time

Need Help with Your Airport?

We can help you review your airport’s pavement and provide clear recommendations with the cost estimates. The expert team at Laser Pavement Solutions can make sure your airport not only looks great, but is compliant with all required standards.

Book a call with our team today and get the clarity you need to move forward with confidence! Visit www.laserpavementsolutions.ca to get started.

7 Snow Removal Problems We Solve at Laser Pavement Solutions

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:37:29 GMT

Our unique approach to snow removal ensures the best possible solution for our clients in Prince George, BC.

Winter in Prince George is no joke.

With long, harsh winters and unpredictable snowfall, businesses need reliable and efficient snow removal services to keep their properties safe and accessible.

At Laser Pavement Solutions, we take snow removal seriously, and our approach is designed to provide the highest-quality service with no surprises.

Here are 7 ways we set ourselves apart from other companies:

#1 - No hourly snow contracts.

While hourly snow contracts might seem fair at first glance, they have many pitfalls.

Discrepancies between hourly amounts billed, compared to how long they were actually on the job site, are common. A contractor might charge time to mobilize there. Unfortunately, it is also common to see inflated billing amounts, and customers are not able to verify the hours on site.
Hourly equipment rates don't always tell the full story. For example, a company m ay charge $1 00 an hour for a skid steer, while another company may charge $150 for a skid steer. If the $100 an hour skid steer is a small, lightweight machine with only has a small landscape or snow bucket, it will take a long time to plow a large commercial parking lot. However, if the $150 an hour skid steer is a large unit, and has a dedicated snow attachment, such as the snow attachments that we use at Laser Pavement Solutions, that equipment could plow snow as much as 300% faster. For this reason, it is not uncommon for our equipment to service lots in half of the time as our competitors do.
There is no incentive for the contractor to work quickly. It would be unwise for a contractor to invest in high-quality, efficient snow equipment and attachments if they can only charge hourly. Their competitors will make more money while doing the job slower.
It is impossible to budget for the contractor and the client. Suppose it is an above-average snowfall year. In that case, the client will end up paying a lot more money, which only benefits the contractor. If it is a low snowfall year, the client will save a ton of money, which could put the contractor at a financial loss and jeopardize their ability to work for future years due to the high cost of snow removal equipment and operations.

What do we do? Instead of gambling with hourly snow contracts, we offer a fixed-price contract. In our years of experience, we have discovered that our clients and Laser Pavement Solutions can often come to a fair price for their snow removal for the entire winter before the snow even hits the ground, ensuring stability for cost controls for both parties. That stability allows us to invest in high-quality equipment and attachments to deliver an exceptional solution for our clients.

#2 - Communication.

We commonly hear in Prince George that clients are frustrated when they can't get a hold of their contractor during the winter season. In a heavy snow event, they are likely out working, and cannot answer the phone to help solve your properties concerns.

What do we do? We have invested in a unique communication tool called Basecamp . This allows all of our clients to send Communications directly to our entire office and supervisor staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Instead of relying on one person to help you, a team of over ten people receives every communication, ensuring that any concerns or issues can be dealt with promptly.

#3 - Liability is priority.

Many snow removal contractors in Prince George only operate because they have equipment sitting idle in the winter or because they would like to keep employees busy. Our experience tells us that they prioritize revenue streams instead of reducing liability for you and your customers.

What do we do? Our entire approach to snow removal is built on the primary Foundation of removing all liability for you, your employees, and your customers. We ensure that all of our properties are meticulously serviced 24 hours a day as needed, ensuring that snow is removed promptly, de-icing materials are applied consistently, and properties are continuously monitored to ensure the highest level of safety and satisfaction for our clients.

#4 - Transparency.

Getting clear reporting data from snow contractors can be difficult and in some cases, is not availablee. For example, most snow contractors in Prince George do not have a system to transparently show service dates, service times, or parking lot conditions during a service.

What do we do? Our standard procedure is for all operators to take time-stamped photos before servicing your parking lot and a Time-stamped photo immediately after. These photos, combined with our technology for time tracking and route planning, ensure that we can deliver accurate reporting details at any moment.

#5 - Pre and Post-Season Reports.

Snow is a 6-month relationship between our clients and Laser Pavement Solutions. It is not uncommon to hear clients frustrated that features of their property were damaged during the snow season, but there is no documentation before or after the snow season to substantiate this.

What do we do? To ensure the best possible solution, we perform detailed preseason site investigations of all of our snow accounts. This includes taking numerous photos of Hazards, current conditions, and other information that protects both the clients and ourselves during the winter season. At the end of the winter season, we conclude our contract with a detailed postseason investigation, ensuring that there is no property damage and that we leave the site in a better condition than at the start of winter.

#6 - Post-Winter Sweeping is included in all contracts.

Due to the harsh temperatures in Prince George, contractors often apply abrasive materials, such as sanding or aggregate, to provide traction and safety. At the end of the snow season, this leaves a dirty parking lot, not to mention debris stuck in snow piles. It is common for customers to have to source quotes for parking lot sweeping after their snow season is over.

What do we do? We made the mess, we're cleaning it up! All of our snow contracts include a postseason sweeping of the parking lot at no extra charge. This inclusion of sweeping int he contract eliminates the hassle of our clients trying to organize sweeping on their own. As we get closer to the end of the winter season, we communicate proactively with our clients to find the best time to sweep and tidy up your parking lot for the spring season.

#7 - 24/7 service.

This may seem like an obvious realization, but many contractors are not able to provide 24-hour service due to their smaller company size or their preference to avoid daytime or nighttime Properties.

What do we do? Our operations Department runs dedicated daytime and nighttime operations crews. This ensures that all properties have access to operations capabilities 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Without this, your property could be exposed to liability if a contractor is negligent in taking care of snow and ice buildup.

Do you want more information on our snow services? Click the get a quote button at the top today and speak with one of our snow removal experts on solutions for your parking lot in Prince George, BC!

Learning Center #3 - What should you look for when hiring a snow removal contractor?

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 17:16:12 GMT

What should you look for when hiring a snow removal contractor?

Trying to find a snow removal contractor in Prince George, BC, might be the last thing on your mind during the beautiful northern summers.

Or, maybe you’re like us, and you think about it all the time… there is no shame in that.

Either way, it would be very wise to plan for snow removal well before the first snow event of the year. Between sudden snow events in October, better pricing available to early birds, and even just the peace of mind - starting your conversations with snow providers early is a great strategy for your business.

With that in mind, here are 5 things you should pay attention to when selecting a snow removal provider:

1. Are they properly insured?

Yes, this is number one for a very good reason.

The cost of snow removal insurance has gone up drastically in Canada in the last 5 years. In some cases, contractors 5 years ago are now paying over ten times what they were paying in 2016. This is a complicated issue, but insurers agree on the root cause of this spike in pricing - slip and fall claims have gone up drastically, especially on properties with high volume of pedestrian traffic. As a result, insurers have had to pay out significantly more money on these claims - and they are trying to recoup the expenses.

A single slip and fall claim can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in litigation and financial compensation. Despite that, many providers are not properly insured, and in some cases, not insured for snow removal at all.

If a company is trying to skirt the expense of proper insurance in order to be more profitable, it opens the contractor is at an extreme risk of a claim which would inevitably bankrupt the business. It could also leave you as the client scrambling to hire a new company during a snow event, or worse, possible legal ramifications for not properly checking with your contractor.

Long story short - insurance is not cheap to plow snow, but it is also not optional - make sure your provider has it and is willing to provide you a copy of their insurance! At Laser Line Painting, we carry 5 million dollar liability on all of our operations, including snow removal, so that all parties involved are properly covered.

2. Is their snow removal process transparent?

Snow contracts are structured on an annual cost, hourly basis or per-push cost.

 An annual contract has a fixed price for the duration of winter, meaning a fixed budget price for your business. Contractors usually will invoice you the set cost once or twice a month. These are generally used on larger properties, but not all the time. You will know exactly what you will pay for the year. A potential downside of this is the contractor may not provide you the absolute best service - if they are getting paid monthly regardless if they show up, you could be at risk of that provider no-showing during a critical snow event. Has your contractor clearly and concisely explained how they will service your property, even during an extended snow event, so that you are not left wondering where they are while the snow and piles up on your parking lot?

 An hourly contract is structured with you being given a rate sheet for pieces of equipment, such as a plow truck, skid steer, wheel loader, sanding truck, dump truck and other pieces of equipment. This is generally used on smaller properties, but not all the time. In this structure, you only pay for when they are on site - so if it is a mild winter, you may very well save a lot of money. Conversely, if it is a heavier winter, you will pay for every hour those equipment pieces are on the property. Either way, “you pay what you are given”, and it is generally considered a fair-value to both contractor and client. A potential downside to this arrangement is knowing exactly how long your snow provider is actually on the property. For example, a lot of snow removal is performed overnight, and proper checks and balances should be agreed upon by both the client and contractor to make sure there is no “extra hours” slid onto invoices or plowing reports.

 Finally, a per-push cost is similar to hourly - but instead of a paying by the hour, you simply pay a lump sum for each snow event. Before the snow season, the client and contractor will agree to what this lump sum price is. Often, a contractor may have a different scale depending on the snow volume for each event. For example, they may agree to perform all plowing and ice control services for any snow event less than 2 inches at a set price, but if it snows between 2-4”, the price is incrementally higher to account for the longer time required, which goes up according to a preset volume scale. Often, there is a “blizzard clause” in these - where any event over 8-10” switches from a lump-sum to an hourly rate to account for extreme snow events. In any event, it is imperative that both client and contractor agree to specific mobilization terms in a contract - so that the client isn’t left wondering “how come they didn’t arrive?”, or worse, “How come they came to the property 7 times when it only snowed twice last month?”

No matter what contract structure you decide upon, make sure your contract with the provider has clear, transparent terms, and proper checks and balances are in place to ensure fair service for both parties!

At Laser Line Painting, we use a unique cloud-based storage system so that you can access all weather data, site pictures and other important project information anytime - that is one of the most important checks and balances we use to ensure proper service.

3. Are they actually going to perform your work?

While most companies use entirely self owned equipment and employees, some companies use a blend of employees and subcontractors to fulfill their snow contracts, depending on their volume of work.

However, other companies exist that subcontract the entire work process to another company - these are known as snow management companies, or broker companies.

This may still be favorable for a client, as long as the subcontractor delivers on their end of the bargain, and the snow management company is properly ensuring their clients are looked after. However, some clients have hired snow management companies with no idea that they were not the actual company performing the work. Issues can arise if their is a direct issue with the performance of the subcontractor - the client usually is directed not to communicate directly with the operators plowing your parking lot. Additionally, the risk of liability often falls entirely on the subcontractors.

At Laser, we operate with our own equipment and employees, but may subcontract a specialized service out, such as snow hauling. However, it is our belief that the only way to deliver the level of service our clients demand is to be the primary contractor on any job site we run - we will always be there to answer your questions.

4. Is the company you are talking to best suited for your property’s needs?

While many companies would happily take on as many snow contracts as possible - thinking that volume of projects will be the best approach for the business- the fact is that not all companies are suited for all contracts. In fact, this approach can severely impact the service of ALL of that companies clients, as they struggle to maintain the high volume of work they attained.

Some businesses are very small, and would struggle mightily to fulfill large properties or more demanding client bases (grocery, hospitality, and health care facilities are prime examples). Conversely, if you are a small apartment manager, you may be struggling to find a reliable partner that falls within your budget and what you need accomplished on a smaller site.

At Laser Line Painting, we work closely with our existing client base - primarily large commercial properties - to deliver effective snow removal services. However, we also work with residential properties who are interested in having an effective snow removal program and snow contractor who can self-perform the contract, and looks for a long-term relationship approach. We recommend you reach out to us in Prince George to discuss if we would be a good fit for your property.

5. How do they respond when you ask the tough questions?

Don’t be shy. Any question you ask, a provider should be able to confidently answer those questions with specific solutions.

For example, if you manage a large commercial site with multiple tenants, one of the key questions you should be asking is “How are you going to meet the demand of our key tenants and their lease requirements?” Of course, any contractor can promise you that you will be a #1 priority - but it takes open communication and asking tough questions to truly ascertain the strategy, tactics and approach that your contractor will use to fulfill the contract.

Other questions you would want to ask include:

 “Can I see a copy of your insurance certificate and WorkSafe status?”

 “Do you have a contract that we can look over from other clients?”

 “Do you have references available?”

As you ask those questions, pay close attention to the answers, and let that guide you in your decision making process.

Ultimately, hiring a snow provider is a serious buying decision - but it also doesn’t have to be daunting or intimidating. A good provider will be there to work with you, not for you, in delivering a successful season of snow and ice control.

If you would like more information about snow removal services in Prince George, BC, reach out to us at Laser Line Painting, and we would be happy to discuss your specific needs and how we can help.

Learning Center #2 - Six Reasons to Book Your Asphalt Project Before Spring

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 19:33:27 GMT

If you are fortunate enough to live in a climate like we have in Prince George, BC, Canada, you are accustomed to the 4 seasons that compose our year:

During the drudgery of the long winter, you may not have “booking a line painting or asphalt maintenance project” at the top of your mind. You’re probably more concerned about how many times you have to shovel your driveway.

However, there are advantages to being the early bird with your parking lot project - before the spring and summer season.

Here are Six Reasons to Book an Asphalt Project Before Spring:

You’ll be at the front of the service line when the weather is finally ready. The phone starts ringing pretty steady for line painting and asphalt maintenance companies when the snow melts, and when property managers are ready for their asphalt projects. That quickly complicates a schedule for a contractor, especially as they try to accommodate more pressing repairs and services for their clients. By making arrangements beforehand, you are indirectly signaling to the contractor you would like this done as soon as possible (Pro tip: You can also directly signal to your contractor you would like this done as soon as possible by telling them this. They like knowing this.)
Pricing is likely to be more favorable. It may seem strange, perhaps even suspicious, to think that the price of a project can fluctuate based on when you ask. After all, shouldn’t crack filling, sealcoating and line painting all be the same price whether you ask for it in February or June? The reality is that an asphalt maintenance contractor is not trying to punish you for waiting until summer - It simply means they are more likely to stock their work “pipeline” early in the season with solid pricing, instead of trying to get you the best possible pricing when they are already quite booked up for asphalt season. If a company is extremely booked, they often will raise the price to compensate for the supply and demand - if they need to cram more projects in a tight schedule, it will cost them more from the labor standpoint.
You are eliminating the chance of project issues. If a contractor knows your project is on the schedule early in the year, they will begin preparing the logistics - ordering material, placing it in the schedule, arranging the proper employees and subcontractors, and all the other fun that is involved in project management. The likelihood of product, schedule, and labor issues goes up the closer you book to the project date. Those issues can be dealt with in advance when a project is booked early.
It will save you time during the project planning stage. When you call an asphalt company in winter, there isn’t a rush to get the proper information relayed from client to contractor, contractor to client, contractor to vendors, vendors to contractors, client to tenants, and everyone else in between. (That’s a lot of people for one parking lot). Instead, it can be done when both parties have the ideal time in their schedules during the winter months. That means you won’t have to drop what you’re doing to try and get a project squeezed in during the summer months, making arrangements with tenants and contractors at the last minute, while also navigating weather delays.
Peace of mind for everyone involved. We can confirm that an asphalt company doesn’t like scrambling to complete a project put together in the busy part of a year. They also typically don’t make as much revenue in winter, and are eager to put something together for a client to start the year strong. Clients have also confirmed to us that they like knowing things are locked, loaded, and ready to be executed when the spring and summer season arrives. The end result? Peace of mind, knowing it is dealt with.
There may be components of the project that can be completed early. For example, at Laser Line Painting, we also offer signage, bollard and FlexPost (flexible signs and bollard) solutions. Often these can be installed all year round (maybe not in a blizzard), which gets you a solution in that area well before the weather is good.

If you have any questions about your parking lot in Prince George and all surrounding areas, give us a call or send us an email - no matter the season.

Learning Center #1 - How Much Does Line Painting Cost?

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 19:16:06 GMT

Let’s get right to the heart of many purchasing decisions - “How much is this going to cost me?”

It’s a fair question to ask, especially coming off the heels of a very difficult year in 2020, that affected every business in the world not named Zoom or Uber Eats. (If you’re reading this in 2050, and weren’t sure what the deal was in 2020, we strongly encourage you to go check it out.)

Property managers, business owners, store managers and everyone else responsible for making decisions in a parking lot are often guided by the cost of a proposal, especially when comparing it to other similar proposals.

So, what's the price of line painting?

In what can only be described as a completely non-exhilarating answer… it varies widely depending on a number of factors. If you were hoping for an M. Night Shyamalan caliber plot twist, apologies - next time, we'll spice it up.

As with nearly every project in the contracting world, no two jobs are similar. While the end result may look the same (painted parking stalls on the ground), here are some factors that will dictate the cost from various painting companies:

Re-Striping or New Layout? It takes quite a bit of time to carefully and correctly layout all of the parking stalls, stencils and other markings on a brand new parking lot. Re-striping still requires assessment of the current markings, but is less time intensive. New layout costs can range 20%-50% higher than a re-stripe.
Condition of the Existing Paint: If the existing paint markings are very faded, a striping company should take the time to ensure that all the markings are visible enough to re-paint correctly, the existing lines are uniform in length, and all other issues are clearly visible BEFORE the paint hits the asphalt (It kind of sticks on there for a while.)
Condition of the Surface : Here is another terrible plot twist - paint doesn’t stick to dirt very well. If asphalt requires surface preparation (power sweeping, blowing, etc.) this can impact the cost. A striping company should communicate their expertise on the current condition to the client and give recommendations for the best paint results.
Coats of paint: Often, only one coat of paint is needed - traffic paint is designed to hold up well in parking lots. A second coat of paint will increase the cost, but will last longer - and may even save money in the long run if it reduces the amount of re-striping! Think of a 2nd coat like the “cheese and bacon” to a delicious hamburger - not required, but kind of nice to have. (Ask us for original burger recipes, we've got some good ones.)
Final Scope of Work: Here are some items a striping company can paint: Parking stalls, handicap stencils, traffic arrows, painted curbs, stop bars, pedestrian crosswalks, special parking stalls, custom wording, stall numbers, NO PARKING hatch lines, EV Charging symbols, and much more. All of these get baked into the final price from a striping company. Non-traditional paint colors (custom) may carry a higher charge, too - but they look cool.
Minimum Charges: If it's a small parking lot, a company often carries a minimum charge, often around $500.
Size of the Company : Larger companies may have higher rates due to increased operation costs.
Dedicated Striping Company: While this is not a hard and fast rule, dedicated line painting companies may have lower rates, as they can perform these projects more efficiently and with higher end equipment than a company who offers it as one of its many services.

Great info! So what is it going to cost ME?

The best way to get an accurate estimate… is to ask a striping company for an accurate estimate.

Seriously, if this blog post were a movie, it would be awful. However, we have some guidelines below you can use.

Most striping companies will be happy to provide you with a free estimate for your parking lot. If you are anywhere near Prince George, BC, Canada - Laser Line Painting would love to chat with you about what you’re looking for, offer some suggestions for your parking lot, and give you pricing for your specific project (We work in all areas of BC, too.) We also can provide guidance on our asphalt maintenance services to extend the life of your asphalt, such as crack filling and sealcoating.

In the meantime, you can expect painting companies to have painting rates varying from $4 a parking stall all the way to $20 a parking stall, depending on all the factors we mentioned above. Often, stencils are priced on a “per stencil charge” - for example, a painted blue handicap square with stencil can range anywhere from $25-$60 per stall, where traffic arrow may be $15-$40 per arrow. Companies often quote numbered stalls on a “per digit” basis, ranging from $3-$7 per digit. A company will also include it’s charges into it for mobilization, fuel, and other overhead expenses into a final project price, which varies by company.