When hiring a concrete contractor, it is important to look for several factors. These include licenses and certifications, customer service, and price. These factors do not relate to trustworthiness, but they are important for the safety of the job. Checking insurance enrollment is essential not only for legal safety, but also for the safety of the concrete contractor and others working around them. Before hiring a concrete contractor, ask for recommendations from friends and family, from online sources that are not associated with the business, and from their own websites. Averaging these three sources together will give you a more accurate concreters info.
Licenses
In order to become a concrete contractor, a prospective business owner must first obtain the appropriate license. The requirements vary by state, but generally a prospective business owner must be at least 18 years of age, have two to four years of experience in the construction industry, and have financial statements proving their business’s financial stability. Depending on the state, additional requirements may include a criminal check and written exam. The license must also be renewed every year.
While it isn’t clear exactly when a licensing ordinance can be enacted, the majority opinion does state that municipalities have the power to regulate concrete contractors. These laws often relate to grading streets and sidewalks. Furthermore, these laws also regulate the use of municipal property.
Certifications
ACI (American Concrete Institute) certification ensures that concrete is mixed, cured, and placed to the appropriate specification. ACI contractors are also knowledgeable about the types of cement and aggregates that are used to reinforce concrete structures. These contractors can also handle any issues that may arise with the finished product.
The ACI certification is a requirement for pervious concrete contractors. There are three levels of certification, starting at technician, and increasing as you build your experience. Each certification requires a performance evaluation and documentation of 1,500 or more hours of pervious concrete installation. By earning this certification, you can qualify your crew for specific projects.
Customer service
There are several things to look for when choosing a concrete contractor. You should consider how long the business has been in operation and what specializations the contractor specializes in. You should also ask about the insurance coverage of the company. You should ensure that the concrete contractor has sufficient insurance coverage for the type of work required. In addition, you should ask the contractor about his or her past work.
A good concrete contractor should be able to show you samples of his or her work. This will give you an idea of the level of craftsmanship they can offer. Moreover, a good contractor should have good communication skills and provide you with detailed written proposals of the job. It is also advisable to ask for references from previous customers of the contractor. This way, you can know how professional the contractor is and how long the finished project will last.
Price
When choosing a concrete contractor, price is one of the most important factors to consider. You want a company that offers a competitive price that fits your budget, but you also want a contractor who will do a good job. This is why you should look for years of experience, detailed written estimates of the costs of materials and labor, and any applicable permits or fees. A good concrete contractor will work with you to meet your budget and timeline, and will provide a variety of options if needed.
Experience is another important factor to consider, especially if you’re looking for a concrete contractor with a specialization in a certain area. Experienced contractors often have connections in other industries that can benefit you. They know the ins and outs of many different types of work and will be able to meet your needs regardless of your project type. You can also consider asking friends and family for recommendations. This way, you’ll have a solid list of concrete contractors to choose from.