What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Concrete companies can pour several types of structures, such as new patios and driveways. First, the contractors account for Lake Forest's weather and climate to select the best concrete for local conditions. The contractors will then pour the concrete and vibrate the mixture to remove air bubbles, which weakens the structure of the concrete.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning enhances both the look and lifespan of concrete. The contractor will scrub the affected areas with a cleaning solution to lift the grime. They may also use a pressure washer depending on the area. It's a good option for concrete patios, sidewalks, and driveways.
Concrete Sealing
A concrete sealant adds a protective barrier on concrete that prevents moisture and sunlight from penetrating the concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and lifespan, saving you money on repair costs. It’s important to have a professional seal concrete, as an expert can ensure the sealant goes on evenly and adheres properly.
Concrete Reinforcement
When installing a concrete driveway, patio, or walkway, contractors can reinforce it with steel bars or meshes. The added infrastructure withstands pressure from heavy loads and vibrations.
Concrete Repair
Factors such as weather and normal wear gradually compromise concrete. This can lead to problems ranging from minor cracks to large chunks breaking off. A concrete company can inspect and restore eroding, spalling, or cracking on structures such as concrete driveways and sidewalks. Depending on the extent of the damage, contractors will use restoration techniques such as patching, rebar replacement, epoxy injections, and resurfacing. Major deterioration may warrant replacement.
Cost of Concrete Services in Lake Forest
While your cost will depend on your specific project, our research indicates Lake Forest concrete services cost around $3–$6* per square foot and $91–$101 per cubic yard.
| Project | $ Range |
|---|---|
| Patio | $1,540 - $4,812 |
| Driveway | $3,849 - $7,218 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,406 - $7,218 |
| Retaining Wall | $13 - $16 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $401 - $2,005 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
Request a portfolio showing the concrete contractor's past work pouring, finishing, and restoring concrete. The contractor's experience can help you judge whether you'd like to work with them or not.
Check Licensing and Insurance
Concrete licenses are regulated locally in Illinois, so check your municipality's regulations. Check that your provider has insurance.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization, such as the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) can indicate a high standard of work and commitment to continued education. Ask the contractor if they belong to one of these groups.
Read Customer Reviews
Search for concrete contractors on websites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and read a variety of reviews. Reviews give you a sense of customer satisfaction and work quality. You can also get recommendations from friends and family.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Ask for a detailed quote from at least three different contractors. This helps you get a sense of the typical price in Lake Forest for your project type. Be wary of contractors who provide very high or low estimates.
Ask About Warranties
Quality concrete companies should stand behind their work with warranties. Ask about what warranties your provider offers for both labor and materials. Make sure to get all warranty information in writing.
