Whether addressing exterior slabs or basement walls, professional concrete repair is key for structural integrity. However, not all contractors are equally suited. Follow these review recommendations to analyze credentials like training, references by material, and project type. Selecting a specialized, experienced technician sets your repair up for success.
Experience and Expertise
An experienced concrete contractor will have extensive hands-on experience assessing and repairing various types of concrete issues. Look for a contractor that has been in business for several years repairing concrete similar to your project. Ask about the number and types of projects they’ve completed annually. Specialized expertise is important for complex jobs like structural repairs, decorative work, or repairs involving prestressed or post-tensioned concrete. An experienced contractor will be familiar with applicable building codes and standards too.
Experience directly translates to quality work because an experienced contractor has “been there, done that” with different concrete problems. They’ve learned from mistakes on previous jobs. Over time, they’ve developed efficient processes and practices. An experienced team also has a deeper understanding of materials and techniques best suited for various conditions. They’ll know proven solutions for issues that could arise and how to prevent future problems. This gives you greater confidence the job will be done right and last.
Reputation and Reviews
Check reviews on websites like Google, Facebook, HomeAdvisor and Angie’s List to see what previous customers have to say. Look for consistent positive feedback over several years to gauge a strong, reliable reputation. Be wary of only one or two reviews as those could be fabricated. Also search your city or county permits office to see if any disciplinary actions were taken against the contractor.
Ask the contractor for 3 to 5 client references you can contact directly. When calling references, ask about the scope of the project, quality of communication, workmanship, responsiveness to any issues, cleanup efforts, budget versus final costs, and if they would hire the contractor again. Positive feedback across different projects builds confidence in the contractor’s abilities.
Licensing and Insurance
Reputable contractors hold the proper licensing for concrete repair work in your state or city. This ensures minimum expertise levels through licensing exams. Check that licenses are up to date. Contractors should also have current general liability insurance in case of accidents on the jobsite or property damage issues afterwards. Insured contractors take responsibility if something goes wrong. Without proper insurance, you may be liable for costs from incidents or injuries.
Written Contract
Get a detailed written contract outlining all elements of the project—scope of work, materials, design elements, payment schedule, cost, start/end dates, permits, warranties, change order procedures, and responsibilities of both parties. Contracts protect both you and the contractor by clearly defining expectations up front to avoid scope creep or disagreements later. Reputable contractors will insist on a contract for your and their protection too.
Communication and Professionalism
Good communication is important throughout the entire project. Assess whether the contractor listens well, explains technical details clearly, promptly answers questions, and discusses options and timelines in an organized way. They should provide updates as work progresses and address your concerns respectfully. Keep an eye out too for prompt responses, proper attire, respect for property, and a neat job site. Effective communicators who act professionally will be less likely to frustrate you with the project.
Cost and Value
Price isn’t the only factor to consider—it’s about getting the right value. Ask 2 to 3 contractors for quotes to compare pricing. Look past the bottom line to factors like experience, expertise, quality of materials, warranty length, specialized tools and equipment needed, and proposed solutions. A higher quote could actually be better value if utilizing more durable materials with longer life over cheaper repairs needing frequent replacement. Discuss payment terms too—is final payment on completion preferable to paying upfront? Overall costs should justify quality, durability and peace of mind from a job well done.
Permits and Regulations
Concrete work may require various permits depending on the scope and location of the project. Ask the contractor about their familiarity and process for obtaining necessary permits. Permits validate work adheres to building codes for occupant and structural safety. Reputable contractors remain up-to-date on regulations and secure permits without incident. Their awareness of rules is reassuring you’ll avoid code violations or rework if an inspector finds issues. Regulations also exist for handling and disposing of waste properly—ask how they will comply.
Portfolio Review
Seeing photos of past, similar projects gives you a glimpse of the contractor’s capabilities. It confirms proposed techniques and materials match their actual experience. Review both successful and more difficult repairs to gauge skills. Ask about lessons from tough jobs too. Portfolios that feature only basic, small projects imply a lack of experience with challenges you may face. A quality portfolio instills confidence they can capably handle your specific needs.
Certifications
While certification isn’t mandatory for all projects, look for contractors that hold industry certifications like those from The American Concrete Institute (ACI). Concrete industry groups offer certifications in concrete field testing, concrete construction inspection, concrete polishing and much more. Certifications validate specialized expertise and knowledge through technical education and multi-level testing for important concrete roles. They bring extra reassurance particularly for structural repairs or situations needing expert knowledge.
Specialized Equipment
For certain jobs, contractors must have specific equipment such as pressure pumps, scarifying machines, diamond grinders or even hauling vehicles. Ask what specialized tools and machinery they would use for your project. Proper equipment allows quality, compliant work and avoids shortcuts. An Under-equipped contractor may produce subpar results or damage needing replacement, wasting both time and money. Their equipment portfolio reflects genuine capacity and professional approach to the job.
Final Thoughts
- choose an experienced contractor with a track record in your type of repair
- review online ratings and ask for references
- ensure proper licensing and adequate insurance
- get estimates in writing detailing all project elements
- assess communication skills and professional behavior
- compare quotes but prioritize quality workmanship and materials
- verify permit awareness and regulatory compliance experience
- review previous similar project photos in portfolios
- look for industry certifications where applicable
- ensure the contractor has necessary specialized equipment
