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 can tackle stains, contaminants, grime, and dirt to improve aesthetic appeal. It can also extend your surfaces' life span by stopping deterioration from trapped pollutants. Effective concrete cleaning requires specialized knowledge and tools to get good results without harming the surface. Concrete companies use scrubbing, chemicals, and pressure washing to bring back the original shine and color of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
Durable and functional driveways and patios begin with a proper pouring job. Professional concrete technicians must ensure the concrete sets evenly and appropriately, bonds correctly, and gets to the desired strength. Technicians will calculate the optimal concrete blend based on the project's size and Washington's current weather. They'll use various techniques, including vibration and leveling, to remove air gaps and achieve a smooth finish.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement uses steel bars or mesh within the mixture to resist external forces, such as compression and tension. This in turn reduces the risk of structural failure, and helps the concrete bear heavy loads or environmental stress.
Concrete Sealing
Technicians can coat concrete surfaces with sealant to shield it from exposure to moisture, chemicals, and environmental damage. The sealant forms a barrier that prevents water intrusion and reduces damage from sunlight exposure, abrasion, and freeze-thaw cycles. Sealing will extend your investment's life, lowering maintenance time and expenses.
Concrete Repair
Specialized solutions can make damaged or deteriorating concrete beautiful and functional again. Concrete companies use precise tests and reliable techniques to address spalling, erosion, structural compromise, and cracks. In Washington, some usual suspects for concrete problems are ordinary wear and tear, subpar initial construction, or environmental factors. Technicians can use resurfacing, epoxy injections, rebar replacement, or patching to return your concrete to its healthiest, safest state.
Choosing The Right Washington, DC Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Washington might seem daunting. However, considering these key elements will empower you to make the best decision possible.
- Cost: While it's crucial to consider pricing, you shouldn't rely on it alone. Instead, make an effort to find a team that strikes the right balance between price and quality work. We recommend obtaining quotes from at least three contractors to compare.
- Licensing and insurance: Concrete companies in our nation's capital need a general contractor/construction manager or specialty license from the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection. Applicants must carry liability insurance and a certificate of occupancy for their physical headquarters. They must also present copies of two different contracts to show compliance with local regulations.
- 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 extensive experience successfully working with concrete.
- Reviews: Research a company’s reputation through real online reviews on popular sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews. A well-established concrete company should have a solid reputation for delivering consistent, quality work. Check each testimonial for insights into how the company communicates with clients, sticks to schedules, and carries out their work duties.
- 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 look for hidden fine print.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
Concrete project costs depend on various factors, including size and complexity, location, and type of concrete used. Concrete averages $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with most concrete contractors charging between $110 and $165 per cubic yard.*
The average cost for a full truckload of concrete for residential projects is between $1,025 and $1,395. Labor for new concrete runs $8–$18 per square foot. There will be additional costs for custom finishes like stamping or staining. You may also incur delivery fees for longer distances or weekend appointments.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.