What Services Do Concrete Companies Offer?
Concrete Pouring
A concrete company can properly pour new patios, driveways, and more. First, the contractors account for Pittsburgh's weather and climate to choose the best concrete for local conditions. After deciding on the appropriate kind of concrete to use, the contractors will lay the concrete. Techniques such as vibration increase the density of the concrete by clearing air bubbles.
Concrete Cleaning
Professional cleaning improves both the look and longevity of concrete. The contractor will scrub away the grime with a cleaning solution. They may also use pressure washing depending on the area—it's a good option for concrete patios, sidewalks, and driveways.
Concrete Sealing
Applying sealant adds a protective barrier on concrete that prevents moisture and sunlight from penetrating the concrete. Sealing improves your concrete's appearance and lifespan, saving you money on replacement costs. Since uneven application decreases effectiveness, hire a concrete professional to apply the sealant.
Concrete Reinforcement
When installing or upgrading a concrete structure, contractors can bolster it with steel bars or meshes. This reinforcement provides a structural framework that reduces strain from vehicles and other heavy loads over time.
Concrete Repair
Damaged concrete can be unsightly and possibly be an unsafe tripping hazard. A concrete company can repair damaged driveways, sidewalks, and more. Depending on the extent of the damage, contractors will use repair techniques like rebar replacement, resurfacing, patching, and epoxy injections. Major damage may need a complete replacement.
Cost of Concrete Services in Pittsburgh
Concrete pricing in the Pittsburgh area varies based on your project's size, complexity, location on your property. Typical costs range between $93 and $104* per cubic yard, according to industry data.
| Project | $ Range |
|---|---|
| Patio | $1,581 - $4,941 |
| Driveway | $3,953 - $7,411 |
| Foundation Repair | $2,470 - $7,411 |
| Retaining Wall | $13 - $16 per sq face ft |
| General Repair | $412 - $2,059 |
*Costs sourced from multiple 2022 reports, including those from Concrete Network and LawnStarter.
How To Choose a Concrete Professional
Review Portfolios
Ask to see a portfolio of the concrete contractor's past work installing, finishing, and restoring concrete. Look for pictures resembling the project you plan to have done.
Check Licensing and Insurance
A license is not required by the state of Pennsylvania to carry out concrete work, but may be required locally. Your provider should have insurance in case of injuries or accidents.
Look for Trade Group Memberships
Membership in a trade organization, such as the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) or the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) can indicate a high standard of work and commitment to professional development. You can ask the contractor if they participate in one of these organizations.
Read Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews on websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot. Companies with a long history of satisfied customers tend to provide quality work and customer service. You can also get recommendations from people you know.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Ask for a detailed estimate from a minimum of three different contractors. This helps you get a sense of the average price in Pittsburgh for your kind of project. Ensure the estimates list both labor and material costs, and be wary of anyone giving extremely high or low rates.
Ask About Warranties
Get warranty information in writing. Make sure it outlines coverage length, materials and labor coverage, and any exclusions.
