Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete companies offer a variety of services for home improvement projects of all sizes. We outline these flagship services below.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning tackles dirt, contaminants, grime, and stains. It also stops deterioration from trapped pollutants, lengthening the life span of your sidewalks and driveway. The right equipment can effectively clean concrete without weakening the surface. Companies use chemicals, pressure washing, and scrubbing to restore the original gloss and color of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
Proper pouring is essential for long-lasting driveways and patios. Technicians must ensure that the concrete sets correctly and hardens evenly. Before they begin to pour, concrete technicians must find the ideal mix based on your job's size and Lawrence's weather conditions. Vibration and smoothing techniques can help remove trapped air for a consistent surface.
Concrete Reinforcement
Sometimes, workers will add steel bars and meshes within the concrete to protect it from cracks, deforming, and structural failure. The steel reinforcement can also help the concrete withstand heavy loads and environmental stressors.
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. Stronger concrete lasts longer before needing repairs. Using a sealant will protect your investment aesthetically and structurally.
Concrete Repair
Specialized solutions can make damaged or deteriorating concrete beautiful and functional again. Concrete companies use precise tests and careful techniques to address structural compromise, cracks, spalling, and erosion. Concrete troubles in Lawrence frequently stem from typical wear and tear, poor initial construction, or environmental factors. A concrete contractor can use solutions such as resurfacing, rebar replacement, patching, or epoxy injections to prolong the concrete’s life span and keep it up to safety standards.
Choosing The Right Lawrence, MA 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 suggest getting at least three detailed estimates from different concrete companies. You should ensure the quotes include 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: To pour and repair concrete in Lawrence, including foundations, a company needs a construction supervisor license from the Massachusetts Division of Occupational License. Applicants must have at least three years of experience and pass an exam.
- Portfolio: Next, ask each company for a print or online portfolio. The more projects a contractor has completed, the more skilled 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 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, sticks to schedules, 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: A reputable concrete contractor stands behind its work with warranties. Ask about what coverage it provides for both materials and labor. A robust combo warranty has high expectations for itself, offering you greater peace of mind.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
The cost to work with a residential concrete contractor depends on the job's size, difficulty, location, and concrete type. Nationwide, concrete prices out at an average of $125 per cubic yard. Most concrete companies charge between $110 and $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 pouring 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.