What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Pouring a new patio or driveway is a complicated job. First, the contractors evaluate Lower Swatara's weather and climate to select the best concrete for local conditions. Then, contractors will pour the concrete so that it sets evenly, and use techniques such as vibration to ensure strength and uniformity.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning involves a combination of chemicals, scrubbing, and pressure washing to remove dirt, stains, contaminants, and grime. This improves both the look and lifespan of concrete.
Concrete Sealing
Applying sealant adds a protective layer on concrete that blocks moisture and sunlight from penetrating the concrete. Sealing increases your concrete's lifespan and saves you from having to replace it as often. It’s important to hire a professional to seal concrete, as an expert can guarantee the sealant goes on evenly and attaches properly.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement involves inserting steel bars, rods, or meshes before pouring the concrete. This reinforcement provides structural support to prevent damage from vehicles and other heavy loads over time.
Concrete Repair
Factors like weather and normal wear gradually compromise concrete. This can lead to problems ranging from minor cracks to large pieces breaking off. A concrete professional can repair structures such as concrete driveways and walkways. Depending on the damage, contractors will use repair techniques like epoxy injections, patching, resurfacing, and rebar replacement. Severe deterioration may need a complete replacement.
Cost of Concrete Services in Lower Swatara
Concrete pricing in the Lower Swatara 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 and $3–$6 per square foot.
Project | $ Range |
---|---|
Patio | $1,473 - $4,604 |
Driveway | $3,683 - $6,906 |
Foundation Repair | $2,302 - $6,906 |
Retaining Wall | $12 - $15 per sq face ft |
General Repair | $384 - $1,918 |
*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 provide multiple examples of their past work. Look for examples resembling the concrete work you need the contractor to do.
Check Licensing and Insurance
A license is not required by the state of Pennsylvania to carry out concrete work, but may be required locally. Always verify that your contractor is properly bonded and insured, in case any accidents or property damage happen during the job.
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 professional development.
Read Customer Reviews
Get recommendations from friends and family. An endorsement from someone you trust can help you find a reputable concrete contractor. You should also peruse customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Compare Multiple Quotes
Request an itemized quote from a minimum of three different contractors. This helps you get an idea of the typical price in Lower Swatara for your kind of project. Make sure the estimates list both labor and material costs, and be cautious of anyone giving extremely high or low rates.
Ask About Warranties
Ask the concrete provider what warranties it has, and ensure you get this information in writing. A reputable company will stand behind its work quality with warranties.