A concrete project for your home will be a major commitment of time and money. To ensure the job goes smoothly and the final product is top notch, do your homework before deciding on a concrete contractor to hire. It is best to research three or four contractors in your area so you can have a comparison of the materials used, the work involved and the cost of the project. Once you have your short list of contractors to contact, there are a few key questions to ask.
How much experience do you have in my type of project?
Many concrete contractors specialize in a particular type of concrete project, such as stamped patios or decorative concrete flooring. It will probably be best to choose a contractor who spends most of his day in a particular area of concrete, rather than spreading himself thin over a variety of projects. If you are looking for a concrete driveway, ask how many driveways the contractor has poured. If a patio is in your future, find a contractor who designs and constructs the types of patios you are looking for.
Will you give me a written contract?
Word of mouth and a handshake are never the best way to handle a contractor. What if the project seems to drag on endlessly or the final cost is much higher than your original quote? To avoid problems, get a written contract that includes the materials involved, the time frame and the complete cost of the project. This gives you some recourse if the project doesn't go as you both agreed.
Do you have references?
It is true that concrete contractors will usually provide the names and numbers of clients who were mostly pleased with their work. However, you can still learn whether the contractor showed up for work on time, finished the project on schedule and presented himself in a professional manner. You can also ask about seeing previous projects, like the address for a driveway he poured or a patio he designed. Check the concrete contractor's website for photos of previous projects as well.
Do you have insurance?
It is very important to hire a concrete contractor who carries current liability and workmen's compensation insurance. This protects you and the contractor if one of his employees gets injured while working on your property. It also shows that this person is a professional in his field who knows how to run a responsible business. Don't be afraid to verify the insurance coverage before hiring the concrete contractor to ensure the policy is current.
There are other factors to consider when hiring a concrete contractor, but these basic questions will tell you whether a prospective contractor is a professional who can handle your project. Most experts recommend interviewing three or four companies and then choosing the one that will meet your needs best. By doing your homework up front, you can rest assured the concrete contractor you choose will provide you with the highest quality workmanship for your home improvement project.
