Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete companies provide a variety of services for home improvement projects of all sizes. We outline these flagship services below.
Concrete Cleaning
Removing stains, dirt, grime, and contaminants from concrete both improves its looks and prevents early deterioration. Concrete cleaning done right takes the right skill and equipment to cleanly remove stains without compromising durability. Companies use a combination of chemical treatments, scrubbing, and pressure washing to renew the original sheen and color of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
Durable and functional driveways and patios begin with a proper pouring job. Skilled concrete technicians must ensure the concrete sets evenly and appropriately, sticks correctly, and gets to the desired strength. Expert technicians carefully calculate the right concrete mix by considering the project’s spatial requirements and environmental conditions. They pour the concrete using techniques like vibration and smoothing to get rid of air pockets and achieve a precise, even finish. Proficient concrete pouring for walkways, driveways, and foundations will protect your investment for the long term.
Concrete Reinforcement
Reinforced concrete can better withstand environmental stressors and heavy loads. It's also at lower risk of cracks, deformation, and structural failure. The most common way to reinforce concrete is for your installer to add steel bars or meshes to the poured concrete.
Concrete Sealing
Concrete sealing safeguards surfaces from damage by moisture, chemicals, and weathering. Technicians apply a protective coating or sealant to the concrete, forming a barrier that stops water. The coating also enhances the concrete's resistance to abrasion, UV radiation, and freeze-thaw cycles. Expert application is crucial to ensure uniform coverage and proper adhesion. Stronger concrete endures longer before needing repairs. Using a sealant will protect your investment aesthetically and structurally.
Concrete Repair
When concrete structures spall, crack, or erode, the fix will demand a careful assessment and tailored solutions. Concrete companies can solve these problems and more to protect your driveway, patio, or pathway's integrity and beauty. Concrete troubles in Lake Forest frequently stem from poor initial construction, environmental factors, or typical wear and tear. A concrete contractor can use solutions such as epoxy injections, resurfacing, rebar replacement, or patching to prolong the concrete’s life span and keep it up to safety standards.
Choosing The Right Lake Forest, CA Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Lake Forest might seem daunting. However, considering these key elements will empower you to make the best decision possible.
- Cost: Cost is a crucial consideration, but it also shouldn't be the only one you make. We recommend getting at least three detailed estimates from different concrete companies. You should ensure the estimates encompass all material and labor costs. Finding a balance between affordability and quality is essential to avoid potential hidden costs or compromised results.
- Licensing and insurance: To install or repair concrete in Lake Forest, a company needs a C-8 specialty license from the California Contractors State License Board. A $25,000 contractor's bond must be on file for the owner, and applicants must take multiple exams testing their trade and legal knowledge.
- Portfolio: Evaluate a company’s years of experience in the industry and ask for a portfolio of completed projects. A long track record can signal experience efficiently working with concrete.
- Reviews: Check customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and try to find information on how the company keeps clients updated on projects and manages their timelines for jobs.
- Trade group membership: Trade groups offer certifications and accreditations showing that contractors follow professional standards and best practices. The American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) and the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) are two of the most respected.
- Warranties: A reputable concrete company stands behind its work with warranties. Ask about what coverage it offers for both labor and materials. A robust combo warranty demonstrates the company's confidence in its craftsmanship, offering you greater peace of mind.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
The amount you’ll pay a residential concrete contractor hinges on factors like the project’s dimensions and difficulty, location, and concrete variety. Average concrete cost is around $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with quotes from most concrete businesses ranging from $110–$165 per cubic yard.*
For big residential jobs, such as replacing a concrete driveway, a full truckload of concrete may cost $1,025–$1,395. Pouring the concrete runs $8–$18 per square foot. Remember, that's just for basic concrete without custom options, like stamping or staining, which add to the cost. Extra fees may apply for longer distances.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.