What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Most concrete companies offer pouring services for installing a new patio, driveway, and more. First, the company chooses a durable concrete mix suited to Fort Dodge's humidity and temperature. Contractors will then pour the concrete. They use techniques such as vibration to eliminate air bubbles for even thickness and stability.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning improves both the look and lifespan of concrete. Your contractor will use a mixture of chemicals, scrubbing, and pressure washing to eliminate contaminants, stains, dirt, and grime.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete shields structures, such as driveways and foundations, from the elements. Moisture, UV radiation, and freezing temperatures can crack and discolor unsealed concrete. Sealing concrete can help you save money in the long run on concrete repairs. It’s important to have a professional seal concrete, as an expert can ensure the sealant goes on evenly and adheres properly.
Concrete Reinforcement
Contractors often add grids of steel bars or mesh before pouring concrete. The added framework withstands stress from heavy loads and vibrations.
Concrete Repair
Concrete can weaken over time from incorrect installation, weather damage, or normal wear and tear. A concrete company can evaluate and repair cracking, eroding, or spalling on concrete driveways, patios, and more. Techniques like rebar replacement, resurfacing, patching, and epoxy injections can restore strength, functionality, and appearance to distressed areas. This saves you from replacing the whole slab.
Cost of Concrete Services in Fort Dodge
The national average cost of concrete is about $125* per cubic yard, with homeowners paying about $3–$6 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 | $1,516 - $4,739 |
| Driveway | $3,791 - $7,108 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,369 - $7,108 |
| Retaining Wall | $13 - $16 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $395 - $1,974 |
*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. The contractor's experience can help you decide whether you'd like to work with them or not.
Check Licensing and Insurance
The Iowa Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board requires concrete contractors to have a contractor license. Your contractor should have insurance in case of accidents or injuries.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization shows that the contractor is committed to quality work and continued education. 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 read customer reviews on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Request an itemized estimate from a minimum of three contractors. This helps you get a sense of the average price in Fort Dodge for your kind of project. Ensure the quotes break down costs by labor and materials. Avoid picking a contractor based solely on price.
Ask About Warranties
A quality company backs its work with warranties. Ask what warranties the provider has, and make sure it outlines whether materials and labor are covered, coverage length, and any exclusions.
