Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete contractors can handle both simple repairs and big renovations. We'll outline different services they offer in the following sections.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning tackles grime, dirt, stains, and contaminants. It also prevents deterioration from trapped pollutants, prolonging the life span of your sidewalks and driveway. The right equipment can effectively clean concrete without weakening the surface. Companies use scrubbing, chemicals, and pressure washing 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, uniform finish. Proficient concrete pouring for foundations, walkways, and driveways will protect your project for years to come.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement uses steel bars or mesh within the mixture to resist external forces, such as tension and compression. This in turn reduces the risk of cracking, deformation, and structural failure, and helps the concrete bear heavy loads or environmental stress.
Concrete Sealing
Technicians can coat concrete surfaces with sealant to protect it from exposure to moisture, chemicals, and environmental damage. The sealant forms a barrier that prevents water intrusion and reduces damage from abrasion, sunlight exposure, and freeze-thaw cycles. Sealing will extend your investment's life, cutting down on maintenance time and expenses.
Concrete Repair
Specialized techniques can make damaged or deteriorating concrete beautiful and functional again. Concrete companies use precise tests and careful techniques to address spalling, structural compromise, erosion, and cracks. The most common causes of concrete issues in Whittier are wear and tear, improper initial construction, and environmental factors. A crew can use epoxy injections, patching, resurfacing, or rebar replacement to extend the concrete's life span.
Choosing The Right Whittier, CA Concrete Company
It’s crucial to consider key factors for a successful concrete project. They include the following:
- 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 estimates include 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 Whittier, 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews 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: Ask each contractor about the warranties it provides for materials and labor. An extensive combined warranty can shows a contractor's commitment to high standards and confidence in its own workmanship.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
Concrete project costs depend on various factors, including dimensions and intricacy, location, and type of concrete used. Concrete typically costs $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with most concrete contractors charging between $110 and $165 per cubic yard.*
A full truckload of concrete can cost about $1,025–$1,395 for larger residential projects, such as a driveway replacement. Labor costs for laying concrete range from $8–$18 per square foot of the project. It's important to note these costs are for plain concrete. Decorative concrete options such as stamping, staining, and special finishes will add to the concrete project’s cost. There may be extra fees for long-distance delivery.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.