How to Choose the Right Concrete Contractor ?

Are you planning a concrete project in Plano, Texas? Maybe a new driveway, patio, pool deck or foundation? Choosing the right contractor is THE most important decision you’ll make.

We’ve seen it all – the good, the bad and the UGLY when it comes to concrete work. We want to help you find a reliable, skilled contractor who will deliver excellent results. So we put together this guide on how to choose the right concrete pro for your job.

Understand Your Project Needs and Budget

First, get specific about what you want. Is this a decorative or utilitarian concrete project? Interior or exterior? What’s the square footage? Any special features like stamped concrete, exposed aggregate or colorant? Itemize your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.

Then, crunch some numbers. What’s your ideal budget vs. max budget? Remember, your “cheap” might be another person’s “expensive”! Get clear on what you can afford before reaching out to contractors. But keep an open mind – an experienced pro may suggest creative ways to stretch your dollar.

Research Potential Contractors

Time for some detective work! Start compiling a list of potential concrete contractors:

• Ask family, friends, neighbors and coworkers for referrals
• Search online directories like Google My Business, HomeAdvisor and Angi
• Check with local real estate agents and home builders
• Look for contractors on supplier websites like concrete.com
• Visit your local building supply store and ask for recommendations

Aim to find at least 3-5 concrete pros to vet further. Remember, just because a contractor ranks high on Google doesn’t mean they’re the best!

Verify Credentials and Licensing

You’ve got some leads – great! Now it’s time to separate the PROS from the JOES. Start by checking credentials:

• Are they licensed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation?
• Do they have any professional certifications, like from the American Concrete Institute or American Society of Concrete Contractors?
• Are they members of industry associations like the Concrete Foundations Association or Tilt-Up Concrete Association?

A legit contractor should have their licensing and bonding info readily available. If not, that’s a red flag. You can also verify licenses on the Texas TDLR website.

Evaluate Experience in Concrete Projects

Next, find out how long they’ve been in business. A contractor who’s been pouring concrete for 15 years will likely be more knowledgeable than a newbie.

But years alone don’t tell the whole story. Also ask about the type and scale of concrete work they typically do. If you’re envisioning a multi-tier outdoor living space with a firepit and built-in kitchen, you probably don’t want a driveway-only contractor.

Other questions to ask:

• What kind of training do your crews have?
• Are they certified in specialty techniques like concrete engraving or polishing?
• Do you belong to any professional organizations?
• Have you won any awards or been featured in any publications?

The more you can learn about their specific concrete experience, the better.

Check for Proper Insurance Coverage

Concrete work has some risks – injuries, property damage, etc. Don’t get stuck holding the bag! Verify that your contractor carries two key types of insurance:

1. General Liability Insurance – Protects you from claims related to bodily injuries or property damage incurred on your project. Coverage should be at least $1 million.
2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Provides medical and disability benefits to workers injured on the job. Otherwise, you could be liable for a worker’s medical bills and lost wages.

Ask for proof of insurance and check that policies are current. Call the insurance company if needed. A reputable contractor won’t mind this due diligence.

Review Contractor Portfolios

The proof is in the pudding – or in this case, the PORTFOLIO! Reviewing a contractor’s photos and videos of past work will give you a sense of their capabilities.

As you peruse their portfolio, ask yourself:

• Do they have experience with projects similar to mine in size and scope?
• Is the work aesthetically pleasing? Is the craftsmanship and attention to detail up to your standards?
• Do they offer the decorative finishes and features I want, like exposed aggregate, stamping, stenciling, staining, etc.?

If possible, go see their work in person. There’s no substitute for evaluating the look and feel of a concrete surface up close.

Gather References and Testimonials

A picture’s worth a thousand words – but a real customer’s word is PRICELESS! Ask each contractor for a list of references, then reach out to those folks. A 15-minute chat can yield valuable insights you won’t find any other way.

Here are some questions to ask references:

• What kind of concrete work did the contractor do for you?
• Were you happy with the results? Would you hire them again?
• Did they show up on time, work safely and clean up the site?
• How closely did the final price match the estimate?
• Was there anything about the experience you didn’t like? If so, what?

Online reviews on Google, Yelp, HomeAdvisor and the like can also be illuminating. But take those with a grain of salt. Sometimes customers (and jealous competitors!) can leave unfairly negative reviews. Look for overall trends rather than putting too much stock in any single comment.

Assess Communication Skills

You found some experienced, well-reviewed concrete contractors – hooray! Now it’s time to TALK TURKEY. Pay attention to how each contractor communicates:

• Do they respond to your calls, emails and texts in a timely manner?
• Do they arrive on time for your appointment and give you their full attention?
• Do they ask about your goals, preferences and concerns?
• Do they offer helpful insights and suggestions based on their expertise?
• Do they proactively address common questions and worries?

The way a contractor communicates during the “courtship” phase is a good indicator of how they’ll be once the honeymoon is over. If they’re cagey, dismissive or MIA now, that’ll only get worse once the check clears.

Discuss Project Timelines and Milestones

Nobody likes a long, drawn-out construction project. The sooner you can enjoy your new concrete patio, driveway or pool deck, the better! When evaluating contractors, ask for a project timeline with key milestones:

• When can you start?
• What are the major phases of work?
• How long will each phase take?
• When will inspections happen?
• When will the concrete be cured and ready to enjoy?
• What’s your game plan if bad weather hits?

An experienced contractor should have a handle on how long a project will take, plus a Plan B to stay on track. If they hemming and hawing or making vague promises, keep looking.

Explore Material Options and Preferences

Not all concrete is created equal! There are TONS of options when it comes to mix design, reinforcement, decorative finishes and surface prep. A knowledgeable contractor will walk you through the choices and help you select what’s best for your project.

Some material considerations:

• Concrete strength (PSI rating)
• Reinforcement (rebar, wire mesh, fiber)
• Cement type and content
• Aggregate (stone) size and type
• Admixtures (plasticizers, air-entraining agents, etc.)
• Decorative add-ins (color hardener, glass, etc.)

The right mix will depend on the function of your concrete (is it load-bearing?), the climate, your aesthetic preferences and your budget. Don’t be afraid to ask questions until you understand the pros and cons of different options.

Inquire About Techniques and Methods

From earthwork to formwork to finishing, there are many ways to tackle a concrete project. Beware the contractor who insists they can just “wing it”! A pro should be able to explain their approach and WHY it’s right for your job.

Some areas to inquire about:

• Site prep and grading
• Subgrade and subbase
• Formwork and reinforcement installation
• Vapor barrier and insulation
• Placing and finishing techniques
• Jointwork and crack control
• Curing and sealing methods

If they offer a technique you’re not familiar with, ask them to spell out the benefits. A good contractor will be patient and thorough in explaining their process.

Ensure a Detailed Written Contract

A handshake deal is NOT gonna cut it for a major concrete project. Insist on a detailed WRITTEN contract that covers all the bases:

• Scope of work
• Materials and quantities
• Project timeline with start and end dates
• Payment schedule
• Change order process
• Warranty details
• Dispute resolution terms

Review the contract carefully before signing and make sure you understand every word. Don’t let a contractor pressure you into signing something you’re not comfortable with. And definitely don’t fork over any money until you have a signed agreement!

Ask About Warranties and Guarantees

Reputable contractors stand behind their work. They should offer some kind of warranty or guarantee in case something goes wrong. Ideally, this would cover materials and labor for a period of at least one year after completion.

Some questions to ask:

• What’s included in your warranty/guarantee?
• How long does coverage last? Is it transferable to a new owner if I sell?
• What’s the process for making a claim?
• Do you offer any extended warranty options?

Keep in mind that a warranty is only as good as the company behind it. If a contractor goes belly-up, their guarantee won’t mean much. That’s why it’s so important to choose an established, financially stable pro.

Confirm Compliance with Local Building Codes

Concrete work is subject to various building codes and regulations, which vary by city and county. In Plano, for instance, a permit is required for most concrete projects over 200 square feet. A reputable contractor will be up-to-date on all the relevant rules and pull any necessary permits.

Some code considerations:

• Setbacks and easements
• Drainage and runoff
• Thickness and strength requirements
• Rebar and reinforcement specs
• Vapor barrier and insulation
• Accessibility (for public spaces)

If your contractor seems fuzzy on the details or suggests skipping permits to save money, RUN don’t walk! Unpermitted work can come back to bite you in a big way.

Discuss Payment Terms and Schedule

Before work begins, make sure you’re crystal clear on payment terms:

• What’s the total price?
• How much deposit is due upfront?
• Will you pay in installments or one lump sum?
• What forms of payment are accepted?
• Are there any discounts for cash or early payment?

A typical payment schedule is 10% down, then installments at major milestones like completion of formwork, concrete pour and final approval. Watch out for contractors who demand a huge chunk of money (50% or more) before lifting a finger. That’s a big red flag!

Evaluate After-Project Support and Maintenance

Your relationship with your concrete contractor doesn’t end when the last truck pulls away. Find out what kind of after-project support and maintenance services they offer. At minimum, this should include:

• A final walk-through to identify any issues
• Instructions for curing and sealing the concrete
• Guidance on maintenance and cleaning
• A point of contact for warranty claims or concerns

Some contractors go above and beyond with perks like free pressure-washing, discounts on sealing services or priority scheduling for future projects. These value-adds can tip the scales between two otherwise equal contenders.

FAQs

Still got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some FAQs about choosing a concrete contractor:

How can I determine a good budget for my concrete project?

Start with a general number based on the size and scope of work – say $6-10 per square foot for a basic patio or $8-12 per square foot for a stamped driveway. Then get bids from several contractors and compare. Remember that the lowball offer isn’t always the best deal. Sometimes it pays to invest a little more for higher quality.

What questions should I ask a concrete contractor?

In addition to the biggies covered above, here are some other questions to ask:

• How will you handle unexpected issues or changes?
• What steps do you take to ensure safety on the job site?
• How do you deal with customer concerns or complaints?
• What sets you apart from other concrete contractors?
• Can you provide any references from similar projects?

How long does a typical concrete project take?

The time frame depends on the size and complexity of the job. A small patio or walkway might take 2-3 days, while a large driveway or commercial loading dock could span several weeks. Weather is also a big factor. Concrete needs time to cure, so rain and cold can delay progress.

What are warning signs of an unreliable contractor?

Look out for these red flags:

• Lack of licensing, insurance or references
• High-pressure sales tactics
• Unwillingness to provide a written estimate or contract
• Asking for a large deposit or cash payments
• Difficulty reaching them by phone or email
• Showing up late (or not at all) to appointments
• Making grandiose claims or offering “too good to be true” pricing

We hope this guide has given you the tools and confidence to find the perfect concrete contractor for your Plano project. Remember, when it comes to concrete, QUALITY and EXPERTISE should always come first.

Here at Plano concrete contractor, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch results and unparalleled service. If you’re ready to turn your concrete vision into reality, give us a call at [PHONE NUMBER] . We’d be honored to show you how we’ve earned our reputation !