What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
Concrete companies can pour several types of structures, such as new patios and driveways. First, the contractors account for Columbia's weather and climate to select the best concrete for local conditions. Then, contractors will pour the concrete so that it cures evenly, and use techniques such as vibration to ensure strength and uniformity.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning uses a combination of scrubbing, cleaning solutions, and pressure washing to remove grime, stains, dirt, and contaminants. This improves both the look and durability of concrete.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete helps defend it from freezing, water, UV radiation, and other types of damage. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and longevity, saving you money on replacement costs. It’s important to have a professional seal concrete, as an expert can guarantee the sealant goes on evenly and attaches properly.
Concrete Reinforcement
Contractors often add grids of steel bars, rods, or mesh before pouring concrete. This prevents cracking and deformation, and helps your concrete handle heavy loads better.
Concrete Repair
Damaged concrete can be unsightly and even be an unsafe tripping hazard. A concrete professional can assess and repair eroding, cracking, or spalling on concrete driveways, sidewalks, and more. Techniques such as epoxy injections, resurfacing, patching, and rebar replacement can restore strength, appearance, and functionality to distressed areas. This prevents having to replace the whole slab.
Cost of Concrete Services in Columbia
The cost of concrete services in Columbia varies based on factors such as the type of concrete used, your specific location, and the size and complexity of your project. Typical costs range between $92 and $103* per cubic yard, according to industry data.
| Project | $ Range |
|---|---|
| Patio | $1,571 - $4,909 |
| Driveway | $3,927 - $7,364 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,455 - $7,364 |
| Retaining Wall | $13 - $16 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $409 - $2,046 |
*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 give you several examples of past projects. The contractor's work history can help you decide whether you'd like to work with them or not.
Check Licensing and Insurance
The South Carolina Contractor's Licensing Board requires concrete contractors to have a contractor license. Make sure your provider has insurance.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization demonstrates that the contractor is committed to quality work and ongoing improvement. Examples of concrete trade organizations include the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC).
Read Customer Reviews
Get recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors. An endorsement from someone you trust can help you find a reputable concrete contractor. You should also read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Compare Multiple Quotes
Requesting itemized estimates from at least three different contractors will help you determine the best price for your project. Make sure the estimates break down both labor and material costs, and be cautious of anyone giving very high or low rates.
Ask About Warranties
Ask the concrete provider what warranties it has, and make sure you get any agreements in writing. A dependable company should offer a labor and materials warranty as a testament to its work quality.
