What to Look For in Concrete Contractors?
Hiring the right concrete contractors is critical when you have a concrete driveway project. Whether you want to build a driveway, a walkway, or something else, there are plenty of professionals who can assist you. However, if you want to ensure that your project is completed correctly, you need to look for a contractor who can deliver what you want.
Unfortunately, doing so might need a little bit more effort than you expected. Hiring concrete contractors that are truly worth their salt entails more than just looking up a name on the internet or going with the lowest bid. If you want to ensure that your project is completed on time, on budget, and with high quality, follow the advice in this article.
Better Do Some Digging
You should do your homework before hiring any contractor. A simple internet search will provide you with a list of potential contractors in your area to contact. You can tell them all about your concrete project, but rarely will you find concrete contractors who listen.
You can also ask friends and family for recommendations, or you can contact a local concrete supply company and ask them if they can refer some contractors. Having a good list of options will allow you to compare prices and make a more informed decision. The wider the scope of your research, the more chances you have of finding contractors that are best suited for your project.
Look for Experienced Contractors
You want to make sure you hire an experienced contractor. Choose one who has been in the business for at least five years, as this will provide you with some level of confidence. Experienced contractors will actively participate in your project while also providing insight and suggestions to ensure its success.
For example, you’ll want to select someone who not only provides the appropriate ready-mix concrete for your project but also suggests additional options, such as concrete stamps, to improve the overall look. Good contractors will also advise whether or not exposed concrete will suit your needs. But at the end of the day, the choice will always be yours. Their job is to make sure you make the best choice possible without being blind to the best options available.
Check Their Insurance Coverage
On a job site, things can go wrong, and you want to make sure you’re not held liable. Or at least have that guarantee that you will not pay for the damages caused by others. Check to see if the contractors you’re considering have insurance. And if they do, is it adequate to cover your home and your project in the event of an accident?
To assist you in making your decision, you can always contact the insurance company directly and request that the coverage and dates be verified. Always take this step before agreeing to work with a contractor. When the going gets rough, you need to make sure that the project is covered.
Enquire and Contact Their References
Before signing any contract, always request a list of references from the contractor, and then contact those references to learn more about the contractor and their business. Enquire about the type of project, the duration of the project, the contractor’s communication and involvement, and the overall opinion of the reference. Make use of this information to assist you in making your final decision.
Look for Better-Priced Deals, Too
When you meet with contractors, they will usually provide you with a project quote. This is, of course, an estimated amount. But it can tell you how much you should prepare for the entire project. Some contractors adjust the final price throughout the project. But the best contractors out there can provide you with a fixed quote too if you should request it.
Compare the information you are given and use it to help you make a decision. More often than not, you will find contractors who offer their services at a more affordable price. These contractors might be offering value-for-money services than others.
However, you should be cautious about selecting a contractor solely on price, especially if that quote is significantly lower than others. These low-ball contractors may cut corners or provide poor quality work, and you don’t want your project to suffer just to save a few dollars.
Ask for Their Licence or Certifications
This is one of the most important things to look for when hiring a concrete contractor – they should have the necessary licenses and certifications. They could present either of the two choices, but they can also present both for more credibility. Make sure the license is current and up to date, especially since it must be renewed on a regular basis.
Furthermore, contractors who are members of industry associations here in Australia are more likely to be up to date on construction industry news and safety standards.
Choosing the right contractor is critical to achieving a high-quality finished concrete driveway project. When weighing your options, keep these suggestions in mind to help you make the best decision.
Let the Customer Service Speak for Itself
First impressions are everything, and if someone can’t sell their services convincingly, their credibility is certainly in jeopardy. An experienced concrete company will be able to walk the customer through the entire process – from mixing concrete to delivery and pouring – and will be open about the timeline, overall costs, and so on.
In short, a good contractor or company will have a reputation for completing projects on time and within budget. Above all, they will put your needs and requests on top of mind as they go along the project. Remember, the ball is in your court when it comes to concrete driveway projects so choose wisely.
Work With Us
With over a decade of experience in the industry, we know full well how to deliver concrete projects on time and within budget. We have the knowledge and the experience to bring your vision into reality. But perhaps the best part is that we can bring all these high-quality services right to your doorstep with just a phone call!
Work with expert concrete contractors today. Work with Decorative Concrete SEQ.