Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete companies offer various services for home improvement projects of all sizes. We describe these flagship services below.
Concrete Cleaning
Removing stains, contaminants, dirt, and grime from concrete both improves its looks and prevents early deterioration. Concrete cleaning done right takes the right equipment and skill 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
Proper pouring is essential for long-lasting driveways and patios. Technicians must verify that the concrete sets correctly and hardens evenly. Technicians will calculate the appropriate concrete blend based on Seattle's weather conditions and the project's size. They'll use various techniques, including vibration and leveling, to remove air gaps and achieve a consistent finish.
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
Concrete sealing safeguards surfaces from the detrimental effects of moisture, chemicals, and weathering. Technicians apply a protective coating or sealant to the concrete, forming a barrier that stops water. The coating also enhances the concrete's resistance to UV radiation, freeze-thaw cycles, and abrasion. 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 reduces the need for expensive 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 Seattle frequently stem from environmental factors, poor initial construction, or typical wear and tear. A concrete contractor can use solutions such as epoxy injections, rebar replacement, patching, or resurfacing to prolong the concrete’s life span and keep it up to safety standards.
Choosing The Right Seattle, WA 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: 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 each company for a digital or print portfolio. The more projects a contractor has completed, the more experienced they'll be working with concrete, solving issues, and getting jobs done in an efficient manner.
- Reviews: Check customer reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews, and try to find information on how the company keeps clients updated on projects and manages their timelines for jobs.
- 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
Concrete project costs depend on various factors, including scale and complexity, location, and type of concrete used. Concrete is priced at an average of $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with most concrete contractors 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.