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 suitable for the local humidity and temperatures. 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 thorough cleaning to get rid of caked-on stains. Your contractor will use a mixture of scrubbing, chemicals, and pressure washing to eliminate contaminants, stains, dirt, and grime.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete shields structures, such as driveways and patios, from the elements. Moisture, freezing temperatures, and sun exposure can damage unsealed concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and lifespan, saving you money on repair costs. Since improper application reduces effectiveness, hire a concrete expert to administer the sealant.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement involves inserting steel bars or meshes before pouring the concrete. Reinforcement boosts concrete’s resistance to everyday strains and heavy loads.
Concrete Repair
Concrete can degrade over time from improper installation, weather damage, or normal wear and tear. A concrete company can evaluate and restore eroding, spalling, or cracking on structures such as concrete driveways and patios. Depending on the damage, contractors will use repair techniques like patching, rebar replacement, epoxy injections, and resurfacing. Severe damage may need a complete replacement.
Cost of Concrete Services in Virginia
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 | $1,654 - $5,170 |
| Driveway | $4,136 - $7,754 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,585 - $7,754 |
| Retaining Wall | $14 - $17 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $431 - $2,154 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
Ask for a portfolio showing the concrete contractor's past work pouring, finishing, and restoring concrete. Look for examples similar to the project you're looking to have done.
Check Licensing and Insurance
A license is not required by the state of Minnesota to carry out concrete work, but may be required locally. Make sure your contractor has insurance.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Ask if your contractor is a member of any trade organizations, such as the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC). Membership in these groups typically indicates a high standard of work and commitment to ongoing improvement.
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. You can also ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Requesting detailed estimates from a minimum of three different contractors will help you determine the best price for your project. Ensure the quotes list both labor and material costs, and be wary of anyone giving very high or low rates.
Ask About Warranties
Ask the concrete provider what warranties it has, and get this information in writing. A dependable company will back its work quality with warranties.
