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 removes contaminants, dirt, stains, and grime. It also prevents 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, scrubbing, and pressure washing 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. Workers on the job must confirm that the concrete reaches the desired strength, hardens evenly, and bonds correctly. Expert technicians carefully calculate the right concrete mix by considering the project’s spatial requirements and environmental conditions. They pour the concrete using techniques like vibration and leveling to get rid of trapped air and achieve a precise, uniform finish. Proficient concrete pouring for foundations, walkways, and driveways will protect your investment for years to come.
Concrete Reinforcement
Reinforced concrete can better withstand environmental stressors and heavy loads. It's also at lower risk of cracking and deforming. 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. Stronger concrete endures longer before needing repairs. Using a sealant will protect your investment aesthetically and structurally.
Concrete Repair
Concrete companies have the expertise to assess deteriorating or damaged patios, paths, and driveways. This includes problems with cracking, eroding, and spalling. In Bellingham, some usual suspects for concrete problems are subpar initial construction, ordinary wear and tear, or environmental factors. Technicians can use epoxy injections, resurfacing, rebar replacement, or patching to return your concrete to its healthiest, safest state.
Choosing The Right Bellingham, WA Concrete Company
Selecting the right concrete company in Bellingham 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 recommend 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: In Washington, concrete companies must be registered specialty contractors with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industry. They need at least a $6,000 surety bond and $250,000 of combined liability insurance.
- Portfolio: Next, ask different contractors about their experience and years in business. A long portfolio of projects is a sign that the team has a great deal of experience working with concrete, anticipates issues before they happen, and manage your job efficiently.
- 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 communicates with clients, manages timing, 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 company stands behind its work with warranties. Ask about what coverage it provides for both materials and labor. A robust combo warranty shows the company believes in its workmanship, offering you greater peace of mind.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
Hiring a residential concrete company is priced at varying amounts depending on the job's scale and complexity, location, and type of concrete used. Concrete costs around $125 per cubic yard nationwide. Most concrete companies quote 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.