Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete contractors can handle both simple repairs and big renovations. We'll outline different services they offer in the following sections.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning can tackle contaminants, grime, dirt, and stains, preventing damage from trapped pollutants and enhancing appearance. Effective concrete cleaning requires specialized knowledge and tools to get good results without harming the surface. Concrete companies use scrubbing, pressure washing, and chemicals to bring back the original shine and color of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
Durable and functional driveways and patios begin with a proper pouring job. Professional concrete technicians must ensure the concrete sets evenly and appropriately, attaches correctly, and gets to the desired strength. Technicians will calculate the appropriate concrete blend based on Vancouver's weather conditions and the project's size. They'll use various techniques, including vibration and leveling, to remove trapped air and achieve a smooth finish.
Concrete Reinforcement
Concrete reinforcement uses steel mesh or bars within the mixture to withstand external forces, such as compression and tension. This in turn reduces the risk of cracking, deformation, and structural failure, and helps the concrete bear heavy loads or environmental stress.
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 abrasion, freeze-thaw cycles, and UV radiation. Expert application is crucial to ensure uniform coverage and proper adhesion. Sealing doesn't just extend the life of the concrete. By boosting its structural integrity, it also lessens the need for costly maintenance and protects its visual appeal for years to come.
Concrete Repair
Concrete companies have the expertise to assess damaged or deteriorating paths, patios, and driveways. This includes problems with cracking, spalling, and eroding. Concrete troubles in Vancouver frequently stem from typical wear and tear, poor initial construction, or environmental factors. A concrete contractor can use solutions such as rebar replacement, resurfacing, patching, or epoxy injections to prolong the concrete’s life span and keep it up to safety standards.
Choosing The Right Vancouver, WA Concrete Company
To select the right Vancouver concrete contractor, weigh the key elements that lead to a successful project. These include:
- Cost: Despite the fact that it's crucial to consider pricing, you shouldn't rely on it alone. Instead, make an effort to find a team that achieves the right balance between price and quality work. We recommend obtaining quotes from at least three companies to compare.
- 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: Evaluate a company’s years of experience in the industry and ask for a portfolio of completed projects. A long track record can signal extensive experience efficiently working with concrete.
- Reviews: Check customer reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews, and try to find information on how the company communicates project status with customers 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 offers 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
The amount you’ll pay a residential concrete company is determined by factors like the project’s dimensions and difficulty, location, and concrete variety. Normal concrete cost is around $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with quotes from most concrete contractors ranging from $110–$165 per cubic yard.*
A full truckload of concrete for major residential jobs, like driveway replacement, typically costs around $1,025–$1,395. Labor for new concrete pours is $8–$18 per square foot. These rates are for plain concrete only. Custom finishes will increase the cost.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.