Perhaps you want to build a backyard patio or a walkway around your property. For whatever type of outside restoration you intend to conduct, you will need to engage a concrete contractor.
When it comes to choosing the best concrete contractor for your outdoor living or outdoor kitchen project, there is a lot at risk. You'll want to be certain that the concrete is done correctly before spending any further money to construct on top of it. You've probably heard the expression "if the foundation is bad, nothing you build on it will last." It is critical to have complete confidence that the contractor you select is both economical and, more importantly, great.
So, what characteristics should you seek in a contractor? How can you be certain that the contractor you pick for this outdoor makeover will do an excellent job?
We'll go over eight recommendations for finding a reputable concrete contractor who has the know-how and talent to get the job done perfectly the first time while also being light on your wallet.
Let's take a look at a concrete contractor checklist to help you make the best decision for your patio makeover or outdoor kitchen project. The right contractor will do the task on time, perform high-quality work, and communicate openly.
Here are eight tips for finding the right contractor for your personal needs.
Tip #1 — Conduct a Background Check
It is a good idea to compile a list of contractors in your region before beginning your restoration job. Look through web directories for concrete contractors in your area.
Then, develop criteria to help ensure that your general contractor is both experienced and economical.
You might ask friends, family, or coworkers if they utilized a concrete contractor that performed a good job on their outdoor project. When researching local contractors, seek for client reviews that speak to essential factors such as quality, promptness, dependability, and thoroughness.
Tip #2 — Consider Experience
You should pick a concrete contractor with vast experience for paving, creating a foundation, or pouring a sidewalk. A company that has been in business for a long time will understand the complexities of concrete work - how to avoid problems and assist you get the most bang for your buck.
An experienced contractor has perfected their skill, learnt how to be efficient on your restoration job, and has the process of obtaining the best supplies down to a science. That means you may expect high-quality results.
Tip #3 — Verify Insurance
Even the most skilled concrete contractors can make errors. Accidents could occur. When working with a large substance like concrete, someone could be harmed or worse.
You do not want to be held responsible if something goes wrong. This is why you should ensure that your contractor is completely insured. In the event of an accident, their insurance should be adequate to safeguard your home and project.
You should request proof of insurance. Any reputable general contractor should have insurance and should not be afraid to show you proof of it. This information is also available on the CCB website. A bond and insurance are required for a valid Contractor License in Oregon. All of that information including verification is available on the website. https://search.ccb.state.or.us/search/
Tip #4 — Get a Bid in Writing
You should not trust a concrete contractor who does not present you with a written quotation for an outdoor renovation project.
Make sure they include materials and additional labor charges in the documented estimate. A formal bid or proposal is required in Oregon, and those who try to avoid this obligation face stiff penalties.
The relevant permissions or other payments must also be included. Gather all of this documented information before signing a contract. One advantage of requesting a quote in writing is that it helps to ensure that the project stays within the agreed-upon budget and meets timelines.
Tip #5 — Look into Licensing
Concrete construction - or any home home improvement contractor project - always necessitates a license. When hiring a firm to work on your house or property, it is in your best interest to look into licensing. This is especially true when large machinery or potentially hazardous activities is involved.
Tip #6 — Review Their Portfolio
As you begin to examine concrete contractors, make sure to look at their portfolio, which includes photos of previous jobs. Decks, patios, walks, driveway paving, foundations, retaining walls, and concrete floors should all be included. A portfolio is a visual representation of their work that can help you picture how your finished product will look.
Most contractors utilize their website and social media as a portfolio in this digital age.
3Rs Pro Tip: Not all of the photographs on websites or social media are from actual jobs completed by that contractor. Many of them are meant to spark new ideas and possibilities. It is not impolite to inquire as to which photographs are their own.
Tip #7 — Evaluate Customer Service
When it comes to a successful or failed refurbishment project, customer service is crucial. With so many aspects and angles to a concrete job, there must be open communication to keep you informed of changes as they occur.
Here are some critical customer service questions to ask when hiring a contractor:
- Are they nice?
- Do they immediately reply to phone calls or emails?
- Do they adequately describe the job's details?
- Are they on time?
- Are they paying close attention to detail?
- Is their personality compatible with yours?
These traits are critical in deciding whether or not a concrete contractor delivers good customer service.
TIP 8 – Choose What is Important to You
When hiring a contractor, three factors must be taken into account.
Price - How much will this cost from start to finish?
Speed - How long will it take to complete this job once it has started?
Quality - How well will this job be completed?
The bad news is that you can only have two. Cheap and fast equals poor quality; cheap and quality equals this job taking forever. You will pay more for speed and quality. Once you've determined which two are most essential to you, deciding who to hire will be much easier.
4 Benefits of Hiring a Local Concrete Contractor
Hiring a local contractor for your concrete project has some significant benefits that may have a favorable impact on the cost and quality of the job. Here are four examples.
1) Understands Local Codes & Regulations
A skilled construction company will have local knowledge that will aid in the completion of the outdoor renovation. Hiring a general contractor in the Salem area ensures that they are well-versed in the region's construction standards and building codes.
A local contractor can help projects be approved and completed with fewer, if any, hiccups. A contractor from outside your area, on the other hand, may be unfamiliar with local restrictions.
2) Faster Turnaround Time & Response
Another advantage of hiring a local concrete contractor is the increased possibility of receiving a prompt answer. When issues or challenges develop, it is simple and straightforward to contact your local project manager to handle the situation.
3) Superior Follow-Up
When you hire a local concrete contractor, you will gain better accountability. If there are any problems once your project is finished, a local contractor will be much easier to contact and follow up with any necessary repairs.
4) Knows About Weather Issues
A local contractor will be familiar with the climate in your area, particularly in Salem, Oregon, and how it may effect the restoration project. When working with a company located far away, you may encounter weather-related issues that result in cost overruns or project delays.
Choosing a local Salem contractor also means that they are familiar with the weather in your area. This enables them to incorporate a built-in cushion for your outdoor renovation timeline that accounts for the possibility of bad weather.
Hire 3Rs Construction & Remodeling for Your Next Outdoor Concrete Project in Salem, Oregon
3Rs Construction & Remodeling offers a professional, skilled team to design, build, and remodel your outdoor living spaces. When you choose 3Rs as your concrete contractor, we’ll be ready to install your new deck, patio, driveway, sidewalk, or fence so that you can enjoy the great outdoors.
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