Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete contractors can handle both simple repairs and major renovations. We'll explain different services they offer in the following sections.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning removes contaminants, stains, grime, and dirt to enhance aesthetic appeal. It can also extend your surfaces' life span by stopping deterioration from trapped pollutants. The right equipment can effectively clean concrete without weakening the surface. Companies use scrubbing, pressure washing, and chemicals to restore the original gloss and color of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
A meticulous pouring job is critical for your driveway or patio's health. Technicians on the job must verify that the concrete reaches the desired strength, hardens evenly, and bonds correctly. 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, smooth surface. Proficient concrete pouring for driveways, walkways, and foundations will protect your project for years to come.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement uses steel mesh or bars within the mixture to resist external forces, such as tension and compression. This in turn reduces the risk of structural failure, and helps the concrete bear heavy loads or environmental stress.
Concrete Sealing
Applying a protective sealant or coating to concrete adds protection against chemicals, abrasion, freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and UV radiation. An even application will help the coating adhere properly and work to its full potential. Sealing doesn't just extend the life of the concrete. By boosting its structural integrity, it also reduces the need for expensive maintenance and protects its visual appeal for years to come.
Concrete Repair
Concrete companies have the expertise to assess damaged or deteriorating paths, driveways, and patios. This includes problems with cracking, spalling, and eroding. The most common causes of concrete issues in Los Angeles are environmental factors, improper initial construction, and wear and tear. A crew can use epoxy injections, patching, resurfacing, or rebar replacement to extend the concrete's life span.
Choosing The Right Los Angeles, CA Concrete Company
To select the right Los Angeles concrete contractor, weigh the key elements that lead to a successful project. These include:
- Cost: Cost is a crucial consideration, but it also shouldn't be the only one you make. We recommend getting at least three detailed quotes from different concrete companies. You should make sure the quotes account for all material and labor costs. Striking 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 Los Angeles, 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: Next, ask different contractors about their experience and years in business. A long portfolio of projects is a sign that the team has extensive experience working with concrete, anticipates issues before they happen, and can handle your job in an efficient manner.
- Reviews: Research each company's online reputation. Reviews on Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can tell you more about how each company corresponds with clients and reacts to complaints.
- 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 quality concrete contractor will offer strong warranties for materials and labor, putting faith in its own rigorous approach and attention to detail. Ask each provider about warranty terms before you make your final decision, and beware of hidden fine print.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
Hiring a residential concrete contractor is priced at varying amounts depending on the job's dimensions and intricacy, location, and type of concrete used. Concrete costs around $125 per cubic yard nationwide. Most concrete businesses quote between $110 and $165 per cubic yard.*
You might pay $1,025–$1,395 for a full truckload of concrete for large residential projects such as replacing a driveway. New concrete costs $8–$18 per square foot, with additional charges for custom options like stamping or staining.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.