What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Pouring a new patio or driveway is a complex job. First, the company chooses a durable concrete mix suited to Baltimore's humidity and temperature. The contractors will then pour the concrete and vibrate the mixture to eliminate air pockets, which weakens the concrete structure.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning uses a combination of scrubbing, chemicals, and pressure washing to eliminate grime, stains, dirt, and contaminants. This improves both the look and lifespan of concrete.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete preserves structures, such as walkways and foundations, from the elements. Moisture, freezing temperatures, and sun exposure can crack and discolor unsealed concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and lifespan, saving you money on repair costs. Since uneven application lowers effectiveness, hire a concrete expert to administer the protectant.
Concrete Reinforcement
When installing a concrete driveway, patio, or walkway, contractors can bolster it with steel bars or meshes. This reduces cracking and damage, and helps your concrete handle heavy loads better.
Concrete Repair
Damaged concrete can reduce curb appeal and even be an unsafe tripping hazard. A concrete professional can evaluate and repair spalling, eroding, or cracking on structures such as concrete driveways and sidewalks. Contractors repair damage using various techniques like rebar replacement, resurfacing, epoxy injections, and patching.
Cost of Concrete Services in Baltimore
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 the size and complexity of your project, the type of concrete used, and your specific location.
Project | $ Range |
---|---|
Patio | $1,592 - $4,974 |
Driveway | $3,979 - $7,462 |
Foundation Repair | $2,487 - $7,462 |
Retaining Wall | $13 - $17 per sq face ft |
General Repair | $415 - $2,073 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
A reliable concrete contractor should be able to give you several examples of their past work. Look for photos similar to the project you plan to have done.
Check Licensing and Insurance
Concrete contractors need a contractor license from the Maryland Department of Labor. Your provider should be bonded and insured in case of accidents or injuries.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Find out if your contractor belongs to any trade organizations, such as the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC). Membership in these groups can indicate a high standard of work and commitment to ongoing improvement.
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 feedback on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Request a detailed quote from at least three different contractors. This helps you determine the average price in Baltimore for your project type. Be cautious of contractors who give extremely high or low rates.
Ask About Warranties
Ask what warranties your provider offers for both labor and materials. Make sure to get all warranty information in writing.