Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete companies offer a variety of services for home improvement projects of all sizes. We explain these flagship services below.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning helps remove dirt, stains, grime, and contaminants to improve aesthetic appeal. It can also extend your surfaces' life span by preventing deterioration from trapped pollutants. Effective concrete cleaning requires specialized knowledge and tools to get good results without harming the surface. Concrete companies use chemicals, pressure washing, and scrubbing 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 ideal concrete blend based on the project's size and Waukegan's current weather. They'll use various techniques, including vibration and leveling, to remove trapped air and achieve a uniform 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
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 prevents water intrusion. The coating also enhances the concrete's resistance to abrasion, freeze-thaw cycles, and UV radiation. Expert application is crucial to ensure uniform coverage and proper adhesion. Sealing doesn't just extend the life of the concrete. By boosting its structural integrity, it also reduces the need for costly maintenance and protects its visual appeal for years to come.
Concrete Repair
When concrete structures erode, spall, or crack, 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 Waukegan frequently stem from poor initial construction, typical wear and tear, or environmental factors. A concrete contractor can use solutions such as resurfacing, epoxy injections, rebar replacement, or patching to prolong the concrete’s life span and keep it up to safety standards.
Choosing The Right Waukegan, IL Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Waukegan 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 suggest getting at least three detailed quotes from different concrete companies. You should ensure the estimates encompass 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: In Illinois, concrete company certifications are primarily up to cities and counties. Before you sign a contract, we strongly recommend contacting the Waukegan building office to learn more about local regulations. You should also ask each company about its general liability insurance, which can protect you if a mishap arises.
- 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 effectively 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 consistently completing jobs to a high standard. Check each testimonial for insights into how the company keeps customers informed, manages timing, 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: 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
The cost of working with a residential concrete company fluctuates depending on various crucial factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the location, and the grade of concrete used. Concrete per cubic yard typically costs about $125 nationwide, with most concrete companies quoting prices between $110–$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. Custom 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.