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 removes stains, contaminants, grime, and dirt. 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
A meticulous pouring job is critical for your driveway or patio's health. Technicians on the job must confirm that the concrete reaches the desired strength, hardens evenly, and bonds correctly. Before they begin to pour, concrete technicians must find the ideal mix based on your job's size and Germantown's weather conditions. Shaking and leveling techniques can help remove air gaps for a consistent surface.
Concrete Reinforcement
Sometimes, workers will add steel bars and meshes within the concrete to protect it from deformation, cracks, and structural failure. The steel reinforcement can also help the concrete endure heavy loads and environmental stressors.
Concrete Sealing
Applying a protective sealant or coating to concrete adds protection against chemicals, freeze-thaw cycles, UV radiation, moisture, and abrasion. An even application will help the coating adhere properly and work to its full potential. Sealing doesn't just extend the life of the concrete. By boosting its structural integrity, it also lessens the need for expensive maintenance and protects its visual appeal for years to come.
Concrete Repair
When concrete structures crack, spall, or erode, 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. The most common causes of concrete issues in Germantown are environmental factors, wear and tear, and improper initial construction. A crew can use epoxy injections, patching, resurfacing, or rebar replacement to extend the concrete's life span.
Choosing The Right Germantown, MD 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 estimates from different concrete companies. You should make sure 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 Maryland, concrete companies must be licensed home improvement contractors with the state Department of Labor. They must have at least two years of experience or education and at least $50,000 in liability insurance.
- Portfolio: Next, ask each company for a digital or print portfolio. The more projects a contractor has completed, the more experienced they'll be working with concrete, taking care of issues, and getting jobs done in an efficient manner.
- Reviews: Research a company’s reputation through real online reviews on popular sites such as Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A well-established concrete company should have a solid reputation for delivering consistent, quality work. 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: A reputable concrete contractor stands behind its work with warranties. Ask about what coverage it provides for both labor and materials. A robust combo warranty shows the company believes in its workmanship, offering you greater peace of mind.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
Concrete project costs depend on various factors, including scale and difficulty, location, and type of concrete used. Concrete typically costs $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with most concrete businesses charging between $110 and $165 per cubic yard.*
You might pay $1,025–$1,395 for a full truckload of concrete for large residential projects such as replacing a driveway. Pouring concrete costs $8–$18 per square foot, with additional charges for decorative options like stamping or staining.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.