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How to Hire a Concrete Contractor

Updated

Concrete contractors handle everything from driveways, patios, and sidewalks to foundations, retaining walls, and decorative stamped or stained finishes. Proper concrete work requires correct mix design, subgrade preparation, reinforcement, finishing technique, and curing time — shortcuts in any area lead to premature cracking and failure. Decorative concrete options like stamping, staining, exposed aggregate, and polishing can replicate the look of stone or tile at a fraction of the cost. Cold-weather pours require special precautions including heated enclosures and accelerators to prevent freeze damage.

Typical cost

$6 – $15per sq ft

Standard 4" driveway: $6–$10/sq ft. Stamped/decorative: $10–$18/sq ft. Foundations: $8–$15/sq ft. A typical 600 sq ft driveway runs $3,600–$6,000.

Hiring checklist

  1. 1Confirm the estimate specifies concrete mix strength (PSI), thickness, and reinforcement (rebar or fiber).
  2. 2Ask about subgrade preparation — poor base prep is the leading cause of concrete cracking.
  3. 3Get a written warranty and ask how they handle cracks that appear within the warranty period.
  4. 4Ask about their approach to cold-weather or hot-weather pours if scheduling during extreme temps.

Frequently asked questions

  • How much does a concrete contractor charge?

    Typical concrete costs range from $6 to $15 per sq ft. Standard 4" driveway: $6–$10/sq ft. Stamped/decorative: $10–$18/sq ft. Foundations: $8–$15/sq ft. A typical 600 sq ft driveway runs $3,600–$6,000.

  • Do concrete contractors need to be licensed?

    Licensing requirements vary by state. In most states, concrete contractors must hold a state license. Always verify the license number with your state's licensing board before work begins.

  • How many estimates should I get?

    Get at least three written estimates for any project over $1,000. Compare line by line — not just the bottom line — to ensure you're comparing equivalent scopes of work.

  • What should be in the contract?

    A written contract should include: full scope of work, materials specified by brand and grade, timeline with start and completion dates, payment schedule tied to milestones, workmanship warranty terms, and a change order process.

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