Services Offered by Concrete Companies
Concrete contractors can handle both simple repairs and major renovations. We'll outline different services they offer in the following sections.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete cleaning can tackle grime, stains, dirt, and contaminants, preventing damage from trapped pollutants and improving appearance. The right equipment can effectively clean concrete without weakening the surface. Companies use pressure washing, scrubbing, and chemicals to restore the original gloss and color of the concrete.
Concrete Pouring
Proper pouring is essential for robust driveways and patios. Technicians must confirm that the concrete sets correctly and hardens evenly. Expert technicians carefully calculate the right concrete mix by considering the project’s spatial requirements and environmental conditions. They pour the concrete using techniques like shaking and smoothing to get rid of air pockets and achieve a precise, uniform surface. Proficient concrete pouring for walkways, driveways, and foundations will protect your investment for years to come.
Concrete Reinforcement
Sometimes, workers will add steel bars and meshes within the concrete to protect it from cracks, deforming, and structural failure. The steel reinforcement can also help the concrete endure heavy loads and environmental stressors.
Concrete Sealing
Technicians can coat concrete surfaces with sealant to protect it from exposure to moisture, chemicals, and environmental damage. The sealant forms a barrier that prevents water intrusion and reduces damage from sunlight exposure, freeze-thaw cycles, and abrasion. Stronger concrete lasts longer before needing repairs. Using a sealant will protect your investment aesthetically and structurally.
Concrete Repair
Specialized methods can make damaged or deteriorating concrete beautiful and functional again. Concrete companies use precise tests and careful techniques to address erosion, spalling, cracks, and structural compromise. In Chicago, some usual suspects for concrete problems are subpar initial construction, environmental factors, or ordinary wear and tear. Technicians can use resurfacing, epoxy injections, patching, or rebar replacement to return your concrete to its healthiest, safest state.
Choosing The Right Chicago, IL Concrete Company
To select the right Chicago 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, try 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 Illinois, concrete company permits are largely up to cities and counties. Before you sign a contract, we strongly recommend contacting the Chicago building office to learn more about local regulations. You should also ask each company about its liability insurance coverage, which can protect you if a mishap arises.
- Portfolio: Next, ask each company for a print or digital portfolio. The more projects a contractor has completed, the more skilled they'll be working with concrete, fixing issues, and getting jobs done in an efficient manner.
- Reviews: Research each company's online reputation. Reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews can tell you more about how each contractor corresponds with clients and reacts to complaints.
- 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 quality concrete contractor will offer strong warranties for materials and labor, putting faith in its own rigorous approach and attention to detail. Ask each company about warranty terms before you make your final decision, and beware of hidden fine print.
Cost to Hire a Concrete Company
The amount you’ll pay a residential concrete contractor depends on factors like the project’s scale and complexity, location, and concrete variety. Average concrete cost is around $125 per cubic yard nationwide, with quotes from most concrete contractors ranging from $110–$165 per cubic yard.*
For big residential jobs, such as replacing a concrete driveway, a full truckload of concrete may cost $1,025–$1,395. Pouring the concrete runs $8–$18 per square foot. Remember, that's just for basic concrete without custom options, like stamping or staining, which add to the cost. Extra fees may apply for longer distances.
*Cost figures sourced from 2022 reports from multiple sources, including Concrete Network and LawnStarter.