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 removes grime, dirt, contaminants, and stains, preventing damage from trapped pollutants and improving appearance. Concrete cleaning done right takes the right skill and equipment to cleanly remove stains without compromising durability. Companies use a combination of pressure washing, chemical treatments, and scrubbing to renew the original sheen and color 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, attaches correctly, and gets to the desired strength. Technicians will calculate the optimal concrete blend based on Des Moines' weather conditions and the project's size. They'll use various techniques, including vibration and leveling, to remove trapped air and achieve a uniform finish.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement uses steel mesh or bars within the mixture to withstand external forces, such as tension and compression. This in turn reduces the risk of cracking and deforming, and helps the concrete bear environmental stress and heavy loads.
Concrete Sealing
Concrete sealing safeguards surfaces from damage by moisture, chemicals, and weathering. Technicians apply a protective sealant or coating to the concrete, forming a barrier that stops water. The coating also enhances the concrete's resistance to abrasion, UV radiation, and freeze-thaw cycles. Expert application is crucial to ensure even coverage and proper adhesion. Sealing doesn't just extend the life of the concrete. By boosting its structural integrity, it also lessens the need for costly maintenance and protects its visual appeal for years to come.
Concrete Repair
When concrete structures crack, erode, or spall, 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 Des Moines frequently stem from typical wear and tear, poor initial construction, or environmental factors. A concrete contractor can use solutions such as rebar replacement, patching, epoxy injections, or resurfacing to prolong the concrete’s life span and keep it up to safety standards.
Choosing The Right Des Moines, IA Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Des Moines 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 estimates from different concrete companies. You should make sure the estimates account for all material and labor costs. Finding a balance between affordability and quality is essential to avoid potential hidden costs or compromised results.
- Licensing and insurance: Iowa requires all contractors making over $2,000 per year to register with the Division of Labor. They must carry unemployment insurance and a Certificate of Workers' Compensation to stay in good standing. If a contractor is from out of state, they must also carry a $25,000 surety bond.
- 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 vast experience efficiently working with concrete.
- Reviews: Research each company's online reputation. Reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews can tell you more about how each contractor corresponds with clients and addresses 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 offers 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 to work with a residential concrete company depends on the job's dimensions, complexity, location, and concrete type. Nationwide, concrete prices out at an average of $125 per cubic yard. Most concrete contractors charge between $110 and $165 per cubic yard.*
A full truckload of concrete for major residential jobs, like driveway replacement, typically costs around $1,025–$1,395. Labor for new concrete installations is $8–$18 per square foot. These rates are for plain concrete only. Custom finishes will increase the cost.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.