Are you planning a new concrete project? Some of these projects could include a driveway, patio, walkway, or exterior steps. Hiring great local concrete contractors is crucial to ensure the project goes smoothly and the results are top-notch. Asking the right questions during your consultation will help you thoroughly assess each potential contractor's expertise, experience, and professionalism. It's important to get the job done right as, according to Family Handyman, your home's curb appeal can raise its value by up to 14%. Keep reading for eight questions to ask prospective local concrete contractors before selecting the best one to transform your property.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

You want to look for an established contractor with many years of hands-on experience installing concrete. Ask specifically about their years in the concrete business, types of projects completed, average job sizes, and any relevant skills. Experienced local concrete contractors will have the skill and knowledge to flawlessly handle your project, regardless of scope or complexity.

2. Do You Have References?

A concrete contractor's reputation among past customers can speak to the quality and reliability of their work. Ask for multiple references from homeowners who they've done recent concrete projects for. Look for projects similar in size and scope to yours. Speaking directly to past customers provides insights that simple reviews may not capture. Listen for specifics like how the contractor communicated, kept to the schedule, handled problems, and delivered the final results. A highly recommended company by other satisfied homeowners is likely a smart choice.

3. Do You Have a Project Portfolio?

Ask any prospective local concrete contractors to provide a portfolio that showcases past work on projects similar to yours. For instance, if you want decorative concrete, ask to see pictures of prior decorative concrete projects. This could include concrete stamping, staining, and etching. On the other hand, if you need commercial work, request examples of their large-scale projects. With images, you'll be able to better evaluate the quality and artistry of their past concrete projects.

4. What's Included in the Estimate?

A concrete estimate shouldn't just be a vague bottom line price. Ask the contractor to provide a very detailed estimate. This should include all material, labor, equipment costs, and fees. Get specifics on allowances or contingencies built into the quote. You'll want to understand exactly what is covered in the price and if there are any extras that you may need to pay for. A transparent, thoroughly documented estimate keeps your concrete budget on track and avoids surprises down the road.

5. What's the Expected Timeline?

Ask any prospective local concrete contractors how long your project will take from start to finish. They should be able to provide a reasonable project timeline that factors in stages like demolition, prep work, form building, rebar, pouring concrete, finishing, recommended curing times, and include any changes such as weather delays. Make sure their expected timeline aligns with your own schedule or constraints.

6. How Should We Communicate?

Discuss how your chosen concrete contractor prefers to communicate during the project and how often you can expect updates. Some provide daily check-ins with weekly email recaps while others strictly prefer scheduled meetings. Make sure you agree on a communication style and frequency that meets your needs. Good communication ensures you stay informed and can ask questions at each milestone.

7. How Will the Site Be Managed?

Ask the concrete contractor to explain their worksite management plan. This can include equipment access, barriers around the work zone, protocols for material storage and disposal, accommodating other contractors if needed, site cleaning, security if needed, and any special requirements you may have. A solid site management approach minimizes disruption to your home or business and protects the rest of your property during concrete work.

8. What Additional Services Do You Offer?

Do you need additional work done on your home's exterior? Some local concrete contractors offer additional services for their clients. This could include snow removal, asphalt paving, parking lot striping, and more. Inquire about what other services that your prospective contractors offer. If you like the work they've done in one area of your home or business, it'd be ideal to have them complete the same level of work in another area.

Asking insightful questions and having detailed conversations with prospective contractors helps you fully assess the expertise, professionalism, and overall fit for your project. Use these questions as a guide to confidently hire the best local concrete contractors for your residential or commercial project. When you need reliable concrete work with experienced contractors, look no further than Professional Pavement Services. Call us for an estimate for your next concrete project.