What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Most concrete companies provide pouring services for installing a new patio, driveway, and more. First, the company chooses a concrete mix with proper curing times for the local weather conditions. Then, contractors will pour the concrete so that it cures evenly, and use techniques such as vibration to ensure uniformity and strength.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete needs deep cleaning to clear away caked-on dirt and stains. 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 driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete preserves structures, such as driveways and patios, from the elements. Water, sunlight, and freezing temperatures can crack and discolor unsealed concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and longevity, saving you money on replacement costs. Since improper application decreases effectiveness, hire a concrete professional to administer the sealant.
Concrete Reinforcement
A professional can add steel bars or meshes into concrete to bolster its durability. The added infrastructure withstands pressure from heavy loads and vibrations.
Concrete Repair
Factors like weather and normal wear gradually compromise concrete. This can lead to damage ranging from minor cracks to large pieces breaking off. A concrete professional can evaluate and repair spalling, eroding, or cracking on structures such as concrete driveways and patios. Contractors repair damage using techniques such as epoxy injections, rebar replacement, resurfacing, and patching.
Cost of Concrete Services in Lowell
The national average cost of concrete is about $125* per cubic yard, with homeowners paying about $3–$7 per square foot. However, your final cost will vary depending on your specific location, the size and complexity of your project, and the type of concrete used.
Project | $ Range |
---|---|
Patio | $1,593 - $4,977 |
Driveway | $3,981 - $7,465 |
Foundation Repair | $2,488 - $7,465 |
Retaining Wall | $13 - $17 per sq face ft |
General Repair | $415 - $2,074 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
Request a portfolio of the concrete contractor's past work pouring, finishing, and restoring concrete. Check that the company has examples of the kind of project you're looking to get done.
Check Licensing and Insurance
Concrete licenses are regulated locally in Indiana, so check your municipality's regulations. Make sure your provider has insurance.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization demonstrates that the contractor is committed to a high standard of work and professional development. Examples of concrete trade organizations include the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC).
Read Customer Reviews
Ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. An endorsement from someone you trust can help you find a reputable concrete contractor. You should also look at customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Compare Multiple Quotes
Request a detailed estimate from at least three different contractors. This helps you get a sense of the average price in Lowell for your kind of project. Ensure the quotes break down costs by labor and materials.
Ask About Warranties
Request warranty information for both labor and materials and get this in writing.