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 grime, stains, dirt, and contaminants. It also stops deterioration from trapped pollutants, extending the life span of your sidewalks and driveway. The right equipment can effectively clean concrete without weakening the surface. Companies use pressure washing, scrubbing, and chemicals to restore the original gloss and color 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 perfect mix based on your job's size and Pittsburgh's weather conditions. Vibration and leveling techniques can help remove trapped air for a uniform surface.
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 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 spall, erode, 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. The most common causes of concrete issues in Pittsburgh are improper initial construction, environmental factors, and wear and tear. A crew can use epoxy injections, patching, resurfacing, or rebar replacement to extend the concrete's life span.
Choosing The Right Pittsburgh, PA Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Pittsburgh might seem daunting. However, considering these key elements will empower you to make the best decision possible.
- Cost: Price shouldn't be your sole determining factor. Instead, try to find a team that achieves the right balance between price and good quality work. We suggest getting at least three different estimates from different companies to compare.
- Licensing and insurance: In Pennsylvania, concrete company permits are largely up to cities and counties. Before you sign a contract, we strongly recommend getting in touch with the Pittsburgh 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: 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 manage your job in an efficient manner.
- Reviews: Check customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and try to find information on how the company keeps clients updated on projects and schedules work.
- 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 company 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 of contracting with a residential concrete contractor varies widely depending on various crucial factors, including the size and intricacy of the project, the location, and the grade of concrete used. Concrete per cubic yard typically costs about $125 nationwide, with most concrete contractors charging anywhere from $110–$165 per cubic yard.*
The average cost for a full truckload of concrete for residential projects is between $1,025 and $1,395. Labor for new concrete runs $8–$18 per square foot. There will be additional costs for custom finishes like stamping or staining. You may also incur delivery fees for longer distances or weekend appointments.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.