Hiring someone to pour concrete, whether it’s a new driveway, a patio, or a foundation, is a big deal. You’re spending good money, and you want it done right. Around here in Aurora, I’ve seen my share of good work and some not-so-good work. So, how do you make sure you’re getting the right crew for your project?
Questions to Ask Every Concrete Contractor
When you’re talking to a contractor, don't be shy. Ask away. Their answers will tell you a lot.
- “Can you give me references from recent jobs?” A good contractor will have no problem giving you a few names and numbers. Call them. Ask if the job was finished on time, if the quality was good, and if there were any unexpected costs.
- “What’s your experience with this type of project?” If you’re getting a new driveway, you want someone who’s poured plenty of driveways, not just small patios. Different jobs require different skills and equipment.
- “Who will actually be doing the work?” Sometimes the person you talk to isn't the one swinging the shovel. You want to know if they use their own trained crew or if they subcontract everything out. If it’s subcontractors, ask about *their* experience and insurance too.
- “What's your process for site preparation and finishing?” This is where the quality shows. For example, will they compact the sub-base properly? Will they use rebar or wire mesh? How will they cure the concrete? These details matter a lot for durability, especially with our freeze-thaw cycles here in Southwest Missouri.
- “What’s your timeline for starting and finishing the job?” Get a realistic idea. Delays happen, but you want to know what to expect.
- “What kind of warranty or guarantee do you offer?” Good contractors stand behind their work. Ask what happens if cracks appear too soon or if there's another issue.
What to Look for in a Concrete Quote
Don't just look at the bottom line. A detailed quote tells you a lot about a contractor's professionalism and what you're actually paying for.
- Detailed breakdown: It should clearly list everything included: materials (type of concrete, rebar/mesh, sealers), labor, site preparation, cleanup, and any permits needed. If it’s just a single number, that’s a red flag.
- Material specifications: What strength concrete are they using (e.g., 4000 PSI)? Are they using fiber mesh, rebar, or wire mesh? What kind of sealer? These aren't just technical terms; they directly impact how long your concrete will last.
- Payment schedule: A reputable contractor usually asks for a reasonable down payment (often 10-30%) and then payments at specific milestones, not 50% or more upfront, and definitely not 100% upfront.
- Clear scope of work: The quote should describe exactly what they're doing. If you asked for a 20x20 patio, it should say 20x20 patio, not just