Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete companies provide various services for home improvement projects of all sizes. We outline these flagship services below.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning removes dirt, stains, contaminants, and grime. It also prevents deterioration from trapped pollutants, prolonging the life span of your sidewalks and driveway. Concrete cleaning companies have the tools and expertise needed to clean surfaces while maintaining structural stability. They combine chemical applications, scrubbing, and pressure washing to restore the original appearance of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
Durable and functional driveways and patios begin with a proper pouring job. Experienced concrete technicians must ensure the concrete sets evenly and appropriately, adheres correctly, and gets to the desired strength. Before they begin to pour, concrete technicians must find the perfect mix based on your job's size and Elgin's weather conditions. Shaking and smoothing techniques can help remove trapped air for a consistent finish.
Concrete Reinforcement
Reinforced concrete can better withstand heavy loads and environmental stressors. 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 meshes or steel bars to the poured concrete.
Concrete Sealing
Applying a protective sealant or coating to concrete adds protection against abrasion, moisture, UV radiation, chemicals, and freeze-thaw cycles. An even application will help the coating adhere properly and work to its full potential. Stronger concrete lasts longer before needing repairs. Using a sealant will protect your investment aesthetically and structurally.
Concrete Repair
Concrete companies have the expertise to assess deteriorating or damaged patios, driveways, and paths. This includes problems with eroding, spalling, and cracking. In Elgin, some usual suspects for concrete problems are environmental factors, subpar initial construction, or ordinary wear and tear. Technicians can use resurfacing, epoxy injections, rebar replacement, or patching to return your concrete to its healthiest, safest state.
Choosing The Right Elgin, IL Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Elgin might seem daunting. However, considering these key elements will empower you to make the best decision possible.
- Cost: Despite the fact that it's crucial to consider pricing, you shouldn't rely on it alone. Instead, try to find a team that achieves the right balance between price and quality work. We recommend obtaining quotes from at least three companies to compare.
- Licensing and insurance: In Illinois, concrete company permits are primarily up to cities and counties. Before you sign a contract, we strongly recommend getting in touch with the Elgin building office to learn more about local regulations. You should also ask each company about its liability insurance policy, which can protect you if a mishap arises.
- 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 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 consistently completing jobs to a high standard. Check each testimonial for insights into how the company communicates with clients, manages timing, and performs tasks.
- 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 signal a company has high standards and confidence in its own workmanship.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
The cost of working with a residential concrete contractor varies widely depending on various crucial factors, including the size and intricacy of the project, the location, and the type of concrete used. Concrete per cubic yard averages around $125 nationwide, with most concrete businesses charging anywhere 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 decorative 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.