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. Then, contractors will pour the concrete so that it sets evenly, and use techniques such as vibration for uniformity.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaners use several tools to revitalize your concrete, such as brushing, cleaning solutions, and pressure washing. Cleaning makes your concrete look nicer and last longer.
Concrete Sealing
Applying sealant adds a protective layer on concrete that prevents water and UV radiation from penetrating the concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and lifespan, saving you money on repair costs. An expert will apply the sealant evenly and ensure it sticks properly.
Concrete Reinforcement
Contractors often install grids of steel bars, rods, or mesh before pouring concrete. This reinforcement provides a structural framework that prevents damage from vehicles and other heavy loads over time.
Concrete Repair
Concrete can deteriorate over time due to poor installation, weather damage, or normal wear and tear. A concrete company can assess the damage and recommend what repairs to do. Contractors repair damage using various techniques, including resurfacing, epoxy injections, patching, and rebar replacement.
Cost of Concrete Services in Baltimore
Concrete pricing in the Baltimore area varies based on your project's size, complexity, location on your property. The national average cost of concrete is about $125* per cubic yard, with homeowners paying about $3–$7 per square foot.
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
Ask to see a portfolio of the concrete contractor's past work pouring, finishing, and restoring concrete. Look for pictures similar to the concrete work you need the contractor to do.
Check Licensing and Insurance
Concrete contractors need a contractor license from the Maryland Department of Labor. Check that your provider is bonded and insured.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization shows 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
Look up concrete companies on sites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and read a variety of reviews. Reviews indicate customer satisfaction. You can also get recommendations from friends and family.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Review quotes from a minimum of three different concrete contractors in order to get an idea of the average price in Baltimore for your kind of project. Ensure the quotes break down both labor and material costs, and be cautious of anyone giving 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.