Beware of cheap, quick fix
By SHARON KERR Staff Writer

For every problem there is a solution, but it seems to follow that for every costly solution there is a scammer offering a cheap, quick fix.

Fire Marshal Stephen Williamson is sending letters this week to homeowners' whose driveways violate city codes by obstructing rain runoff.

Jasper street superintendent Chris Woods is willing to discuss the repairs with any homeowner who calls him at 383-6128.

Homeowners should beware of any individual claiming to represent the city and offering to "fix" a problem, according to Williamson.

"Avoid any contractor who comes to your house uninvited. The telephone book or friends are great references for contractors." Williamson said.

Residents should know that the city can't recommend a contractor, nor will the city fix a problem except as a last resort, after notification, and for a greater price than the homeowner would pay a legitimate contractor, according to Woods.

L.L. Mathews is a general partner of Mathews Construction Company, a paving company with a 60-year history. Mathews repaved Main Street recently.

After looking at typical photos of curb violations, Mathews said, "These people probably had a dip where the car was dragging, and they tried to fix it. What needs to be done is to remove the obstruction. Whether it's asphalt or concrete, that might mean scraping or cutting, removing material, and repouring to a proper elevation or grade."

Looking at one owners' attempt to provide drainage with a piece of pipe, Mathews said, "This pipe's going to clog with leaves and the water will have no where to go. When water swirls around it just eats the road and wears the pavement out."

Mathews advises homeowners to ask a contractor for a written estimate, if the company is bonded and insured, for local references, a phone number and a physical address.

"They should get a warranty, too," Mathews said. "At least 60 days. Pretty much you can tell in that time if the job is going to hold up."

Mathews recalled that five or six years ago, there were some people operating in Jasper and Sabine counties, taking advantage of people, mainly the elderly, by offering cheap repairs that didn't last. "Someone comes to the door and says, 'hey, I'm in the area,' so they go for it and think they are getting a great deal," Mathews said.

Williamson says, "The old saying about you get what you pay for is a wise warning. I would encourage people to contact Chris Woods after obtaining a quote, and use his expertise to make sure the work will bring the curb into compliance."