Concrete seems like a simplistic material since it contains few ingredients; however, it adds strength and function to many homes, buildings, pathways, and more. Truly, concrete is a material that combines form and aesthetics.
Selecting a concrete contractor who can perform that work that you need completed is more than a quick search on the internet. Read more for ideas on how to choose a concrete contractor whose work will add beauty and practicality to your home or business.
Services Offered
Hiring an experienced concrete contractor is an important step in your selection process. If you are looking for a concrete kitchen countertop, a patio and firepit, or a walkway, you want to choose a professional that offers a wide range of services. If the company does not provide a broad scope of products and services, be sure to ask why.
Experience & Training
Next, you need to check with the contractor on how much experience they have in the type of work that you need performed. You want to select a contractor who has been in business for a minimum of five or ten years. This will help ensure that they have successfully completed projects. Longevity also usually means that the contractor has encountered challenges on different job sites. Experience gleaned from a variety of jobs and customers will provide the contractor with insights to assist you in making informed decisions about your job.
Recommendations
Professional concrete contractors will have a list of references that they can share with you. Feel free to contact their satisfied customers. Have ready a list of questions to ask.
- What type of work was performed?
- How long did it take?
- Did the contractor run into any obstacles? If so, how did they address them?
- How did the contractor communicate?
Add this information to your decision-making criteria.
Insurances & Licenses
Accidents can and do happen every day, including on job sites. When choosing a concrete contractor, you must check that they are fully insured. On most contractors’ websites, they will provide information about their insurances. In addition, make sure that the contractor is licensed to perform work in your area.
Pricing & Paperwork
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential concrete contractors, it’s time to talk about money. You want to be sure to get the quote in writing. Details that should be included in the quote include –
- Timeline for how long the project will take.
- When the project can start.
- A list of materials that will be used in the project.
- Details about any local building permits that are needed and who will obtain the permits.
- Clean up and removal of debris should also be included.
- Payment terms – often you will need to pay a percentage when you sign the contract. Then another part of the total cost is due when the project commences. The final payment should be due after the project is completed.
The contractor with the lowest cost is not necessarily the most qualified contractor. You need to examine the entire package before making your selection.
