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 Charlottesville's climate. Then, contractors will pour the concrete so that it cures evenly, and use techniques such as vibration to ensure strength and uniformity.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete needs thorough cleaning to clear away built-up dirt and stains. The contractor will scrub the affected areas with a cleaning solution to lift the grime. They may also use a pressure washer depending on the area—it's a good option for concrete driveways, patios, and sidewalks.
Concrete Sealing
Sealing concrete helps protect it from freezing, UV radiation, water, and other types of damage. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and lifespan, saving you money on replacement costs. Since uneven application lowers effectiveness, hire a concrete expert to administer the protectant.
Concrete Reinforcement
Contractors often secure grids of steel bars or mesh before pouring concrete. Reinforcement increases concrete’s resistance to daily strains and heavy loads.
Concrete Repair
Damaged concrete can be unappealing and even be an unsafe tripping hazard. A concrete professional can inspect and restore eroding, cracking, or spalling on concrete driveways, walkways, and more. Techniques such as patching, rebar replacement, resurfacing, and epoxy injections can restore appearance, functionality, and strength to distressed areas. This saves you from replacing the whole slab.
Cost of Concrete Services in Charlottesville
While the final cost will depend on your specific project, our research indicates Charlottesville concrete services cost around $3–$7* per square foot and $94–$105 per cubic yard.
| Project | $ Range |
|---|---|
| Patio | $1,604 - $5,012 |
| Driveway | $4,010 - $7,519 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,506 - $7,519 |
| Retaining Wall | $13 - $17 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $418 - $2,089 |
*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 the concrete contractor's past work pouring, finishing, and repairing concrete. Check that the company has examples of the type of project you're looking to get done.
Check Licensing and Insurance
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation requires concrete contractors to have a contractor license. Your provider should have insurance in case of accidents or injuries.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization, such as the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) typically indicates a high standard of work and commitment to professional development. Ask the contractor if they are a member of one of these organizations.
Read Customer Reviews
Get recommendations from friends and family. An endorsement from someone you know can help you determine who to hire. You should also read customer feedback on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Reviewing estimates from at least three concrete contractors will help you determine the best price for your project. Be wary of contractors offering very high or low estimates.
Ask About Warranties
Ask the concrete company what warranties it has, and make sure to get any agreements in writing. A dependable company will offer a labor and materials warranty as a testament to its work quality.
