After concrete has been poured, it's consolidated and compacted for the final step. This ensures that there are no air pockets. A broom finish is where a special broom pulls over the concrete to give it a rough texture. Finishing can also include adding decorative elements to concrete, such as dye or design.
Let's look at the skills that concrete contractors need to succeed. This list is useful for subcontractors who are trying to hire concrete workers.
A concrete driveway can be resurfaced for as low as $4 per square foot. Tinted concrete or textured surfaces can increase the cost by $6-10 per square feet.
When looking for driveway concrete companies, make sure to look for those with at least five year experience. These businesses have the experience and knowledge to deliver consistent quality work. The field is more familiar to experienced contractors. Additionally, they are able to establish a track record of success and build a loyal client base.
A simple concrete driveway will cost you $6 per sq. foot. An upgrade such as staining or texturing could increase the cost by $10 per squarefoot.
Concrete driveways today can be customized to suit your needs. These upgrades are not only more expensive, but will give your home a completely new look. Make sure you let your contractor before meeting with them if you are looking into decorative concrete options. They will be happy to show you all of the options and collaborate with you in creating the look you desire.
It is unrealistic to expect your contractor will match the color of your concrete driveway exactly with a sample from a nearby showroom, a neighbor's decorative concrete drive, or a photograph taken from a brochure. Even plain concrete can have color variations. This is especially true when more than one load of concrete is required or if concrete placements take place on different days. These variations are usually minor and will fade with time.
Concrete contractors are skilled, experienced workers who are capable of handling concrete at every stage. Concrete contractors with years of industry experience can create elaborate plans and designs. Homeowners and building owners have the option to create their own custom renovations or design features for their properties.
A target market is another important aspect that must be considered. One must be able to identify the right market in order to become a concrete contractor. One can do residential work that involves pouring patios and walkways. Or, one can choose to focus more on commercial projects that involve schools, government buildings, and offices. It is essential that one decides where to focus first. The tools, skills, and expertise needed for residential or commercial projects are vastly different.
The legal aspects are another important aspect to be aware of when you become a concrete contractor. To discuss your options, it is a good idea to contact a lawyer. You will need to get liability and worker's comp insurance as well as company auto insurance.
Concrete professionals usually charge per project. This is based on the time and materials required. The contract should show the total cost and break it down into the amounts for labor and materials. The contract should include contact information for all parties and details about the scope of work. It should also contain a schedule of payments that will be due upon completion.
The best driveway concrete companies teach their employees to be friendly, communicate clearly and pay attention to details. Companies should display a friendly attitude and be open to discussing the project with potential clients. Avoid contractors who insist on scheduling appointments, don't return phone calls, or hesitate to answer any questions.
It wasn't that long ago, asphalt and concrete were the most common driveway materials. Today, concrete has a wide range decorative options. Sometimes referred as a cement driveway, or as painted concrete. Decorative concrete is one of many affordable ways to transform your home's front yard.
You can recycle your concrete driveway if it ever becomes unusable. Your recycled driveway material can be used to make granular and base courses for new pavements, or as aggregate in concrete.