Whether you simply want to add plain concrete or upgrade to exposed aggregate concrete, the final result will be greatly impacted by the experience and professionalism of the concrete contractor that you choose. It’s true that concrete is one of the most durable materials available, but to ensure that it lives up to its promise the contractor needs to have the right tools and adequate knowledge. Something as simple as adding too much water could mean that the concrete won’t be as strong.
If you want your building project to be completed on time and according to your specs, it’s key that you take the time and research the potential contractors near you. Here are the most important points to keep in mind and which questions you should ask before hiring the services of a concrete contractor in Melbourne.
If you want to learn more about concreting options, check out our resources:
1. What Are The Most Common Concrete Types?
2. Top Benefits of Hiring Professional Concrete Services
3. 5 Ways You Can Use Concrete in Your Garden
4. What Concrete Extension Types Can You Add To Your Home?
5. How To Remove Stains From Concrete
What should I look for when hiring a concrete contractor?
Experience and cost are probably the two factors that come first to mind. Though, how many years in the field are seen as enough? What’s the average cost of concrete in Melbourne? What else should you pay attention to as well? Here’s a closer look at these factors and other key considerations that you should keep in mind.
Experience
The concrete contractor that you decide to work with should have at least five years of experience in the industry. Not only will this experience ensure a better quality finish, but it will also help see to it that the project gets completed without a hitch. Plus, in the event that an issue pops up, their experience will enable them to identify creative solutions that a less experienced concrete contractor might not have thought of.
Cost
While cost will definitely be one of the most important factors, it shouldn’t be the only consideration. Depending on the type of concrete that you need, you can expect to pay anything from $85 per square meter for plain concrete to four times that amount for stencilled concrete for a driveway. This excludes preparation work which can bump up the total cost of the project quite significantly.
So, considering that there can be a huge price fluctuation, it’s crucial that you request a couple of quotes for comparison. When comparing these quotes, double check that all the costs have been itemized clearly to avoid possible confusion later on.
Insurance
Even if you’re working with an experienced concrete contractor in Melbourne, an unlucky accident – possibly an injury on the job – can still occur. Who will take responsibility in this situation? If the concrete contractor doesn’t have insurance cover, this could very likely fall on your shoulders.
Insurance is there for a very good reason. It’s to protect homeowners like yourself against unforeseen mishaps that can lead to many sleepless nights. So, double check that the contractor has adequate insurance in place. Also, make sure that his insurance policy will protect you and your property, too.
Portfolio
When studying potential contractors’ portfolios, you want to focus on the quality of the previous projects and the scope of the services offered. Experienced concrete contractors know that their portfolios are a valuable tool for potential customers and will put in extra effort to help them with their decision-making process. If there aren’t sufficient photos or the portfolio looks as if it were thrown together at the last minute, it could be an early sign that the contractor will approach the concrete job in the same manner.
What questions should I ask concrete contractors near me?
After you’ve done your initial research, you should also take the time to ask the concrete contractors who made your shortlist a few questions. Whether you prefer to ask them face to face the next time that you meet or simply send them a quick email, this could help to avoid possible confusion down the line. Also, it’s a good opportunity to get clarification on a few issues that your research might have uncovered.
The following are a few specific questions that you can ask potential concrete contractors before signing on any dotted lines:
- How many workers are part of your team?
- Do I require any permits for the job? If yes, who’s responsible for applying for them?
- How much time do you need to complete the project?
- How does the process work?
- Which similar projects have you completed?
- Which safety protocols do you follow?
- How does payment work?
- Do you require a deposit before you can start?
- Will you also clean up the site after you’ve completed the project?
- Does the workmanship come with any guarantees?
- Does the concrete require any maintenance afterwards?
Bonus tip for hiring a concrete contractor in Melbourne
Get everything in writing
It’s critical that you get everything in writing before your building project commences. Not only for your own safety, but also to make sure that everyone (including yourself) knows what their responsibilities are. For example, who needs to apply for any required permits? Will the guarantee exclude workmanship? These types of minor details can make a huge difference.
Searching for a reliable concrete contractor in Melbourne?
Just like concrete, there’s more than might first meet the eye when selecting a contractor for your next project. Cost is by no means the only indication of the quality that you can expect.
Between asking your network for references to checking them out on Google, finding the best concrete contractor in Melbourne can be a labor-intensive process. You don’t want to be stuck with a concrete slab that cracks. You also don’t want to be overcharged for a straightforward residential project.
For high-quality results at an affordable price, be sure to reach out to Concept Concrete in Melbourne at 1300 366 343 and let’s chat about your project. Founded a decade ago, the team at Concept Concrete specializes in architectural concrete and formwork design.
Simply need building advice? We also offer a wide range of extra services.
