What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Concrete companies can pour several types of structures, such as new patios and driveways. First, the company selects a durable concrete mix suited to Philadelphia's humidity and temperature. After deciding on the proper type of concrete to use, the contractors will pour the concrete. Techniques such as vibration strengthen the concrete by eliminating air bubbles.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaners use several methods to refresh your concrete, such as scrubbing, cleaning solutions, and pressure washing. Cleaning makes your concrete look better and last longer.
Concrete Sealing
A concrete sealant adds a protective layer on concrete that blocks water and UV radiation from penetrating the concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and longevity, saving you money on repair costs. It’s important to hire a professional to seal concrete, as an expert can guarantee the sealant goes on evenly and adheres properly.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement involves placing steel bars or meshes before pouring the concrete. The added reinforcement withstands stress from heavy loads and vibrations.
Concrete Repair
Factors such as weather and normal wear gradually compromise concrete. This can lead to problems ranging from minor cracks to large chunks breaking off. A concrete professional can fix damaged driveways, walkways, and more. Contractors repair damage using various techniques, including patching, resurfacing, rebar replacement, and epoxy injections.
Cost of Concrete Services in Philadelphia
Concrete pricing in the Philadelphia area varies based on your project's size, complexity, location on your property. Typical costs range between $101 and $113* per cubic yard, according to industry data.
Project | $ Range |
---|---|
Patio | $1,716 - $5,361 |
Driveway | $4,289 - $8,042 |
Foundation Repair | $2,681 - $8,042 |
Retaining Wall | $14 - $18 per sq face ft |
General Repair | $447 - $2,234 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
Request a portfolio of a provider’s past work. The contractor's history can help you determine whether you'd like to work with them or not.
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 check that your provider is properly bonded and insured, in case any injuries or property damage happen during the job.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Check to see 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 continued education.
Read Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Companies with a long history of satisfied customers tend to provide high-quality work and customer service. You can also ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Getting itemized estimates from a minimum of three contractors will help you find the best price for your project. Make sure the quotes break down both labor and material costs, and be wary of anyone giving very high or low estimates.
Ask About Warranties
Quality concrete companies should stand behind their work with warranties. Ask what warranties your provider offers for both labor and materials. Make sure to get all warranty information in writing.