What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Pouring a new patio or driveway is a complicated job. First, the company chooses a concrete mix with proper curing times for the local climate. After deciding on the proper kind of concrete to use, the contractors will pour the concrete. Techniques such as vibration strengthen the concrete by clearing air pockets.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning uses a combination of chemicals, scrubbing, and pressure washing to remove stains, grime, contaminants, and dirt. This improves the look and durability of concrete.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete helps defend it from UV radiation, water, freezing, and other types of damage. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and longevity, saving you money on replacement costs. Since improper application decreases effectiveness, get a concrete professional to apply the sealant.
Concrete Reinforcement
Contractors often add grids of steel bars, rods, or mesh before pouring concrete. This minimizes damage and deformation, and helps your concrete withstand heavy loads.
Concrete Repair
Damaged concrete can be unsightly and possibly be an unsafe tripping hazard. A concrete company can fix damaged driveways, patios, and more. Techniques such as resurfacing, rebar replacement, patching, and epoxy injections can restore appearance, strength, and functionality to distressed areas. This saves you from having to redo the whole structure.
Cost of Concrete Services in Essex
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 type of concrete used, and the size and complexity of your project.
| Project | $ Range |
|---|---|
| Patio | $1,610 - $5,030 |
| Driveway | $4,024 - $7,546 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,515 - $7,546 |
| Retaining Wall | $13 - $17 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $419 - $2,096 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
An experienced concrete contractor should be able to show you several examples of past projects. Check that the company has examples of the kind of project you're looking to get done.
Check Licensing and Insurance
The Maryland Department of Labor requires concrete contractors to have a contractor license. Check that your contractor has insurance.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization is a good indication that the contractor is committed to quality work and continued education. Examples of concrete trade organizations are the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC).
Read Customer Reviews
Search for concrete companies on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot and read a variety of reviews. Reviews indicate customer satisfaction and work quality. You can also get recommendations from friends and family.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Ask for a detailed quote from a minimum of three contractors. This helps you get an idea of the average price in Essex for your project type. Be cautious of contractors who offer very high or low rates.
Ask About Warranties
A dependable company stands behind its work with warranties. Ask what warranties the provider offers, and make sure it details materials and labor coverage, coverage duration, and any exclusions and limitations.
