Are you searching for a concrete company in Baton Rouge? Stamped and stained concrete is an excellent choice for any property. However, it’s vital that you find the right contractor for your installation! An experienced contractor means a stunning finish and high-quality installation that lasts.
To help you find the right concrete company in Baton Rouge, check out 7 tips from the pros. This information can help you narrow down your options and find the right installer for your stamped concrete project. In turn, you’ll be happy with that new deck, patio, or other outdoor surfaces for years to come.
1. First, research your stamped concrete preferences
Before you search for a concrete company in Baton Rouge, research your stamped concrete preferences. After all, you can’t discuss your needs and preferences if you haven’t researched them! You also can’t find a concrete installer that offers your preferred choices if you haven’t researched them before calling.
Check online for stamped patterns, stain colors, sealants, additives, and the like. Note a few choices you would prefer for your property and their varying price points. You can then choose a contractor who offers what you need at a price you can afford.
2. Check more than Google reviews
When searching for any contractor, no doubt you check their Google reviews. This is an excellent step, but don’t stop there! Visit sites meant for contractor reviews in particular including Angi, Houzz, HomeAdvisor, Thumbtack, and any others you find.
Note, too, if you see a pattern in those reviews. For instance, if several past clients state that the installed concrete was an “off-color,” this can be a red flag! On the other hand, if you notice several positive reviews mentioning their great work or outstanding customer support, this can be a good sign.
3. Note response times from a concrete company in Baton Rouge
When calling around to find a concrete installation contractor, be sure to note a company’s response time. While a busy installer might not call you right back, you should need to wait several days for a response! Waiting too long can mean poor customer service skills.
A poor response time can also mean that the contractor doesn’t hire enough people to support their business! Whatever the case, you might eliminate a contractor who takes several days to get back to you.
4. Make sure you’re comparing an “apples to apples” estimate
After getting in touch with various concrete installers, ensure you’re comparing “apples to apples” estimates. What does this mean? Simply put, you want to compare identical estimates, each offering the same products and services.
For instance, one contractor’s estimate might be far lower than everyone else’s. However, you need to check if there is something missing from their estimates such as sealant, grit for added traction, and the like. Also, some contractors might be quoting on concrete less thick than what’s offered by other companies. With this in mind, ensure you’re checking the exact same products and services when comparing estimates.
5. Never accept verbal contracts!
Never accept a verbal contract from any home improvement company. This includes a concrete company in Baton Rouge. Instead, they should offer a final quote and a written agreement for their work. The contract should also include a payment schedule, completion date, and any recourse you have if there are completion delays.
Note, too, that you should never sign that contract if you still have questions or doubts about their work. A reputable contractor won’t pressure any potential client to sign a contract before they understand all its details.
6. Ask for a sample before they continue with the project
Once your contractor starts your concrete installation project, ask to see a sample before they continue. They might press a small area with your chosen mold so you can ensure it looks as expected. Additionally, they might then stain a small section of the stamped installation, so you can ensure the stain offers the finish you want as well!
7. Pay your contractor on time!
Once your contractor finishes your concrete installation project, be sure to pay them on time! Your contractor needs to pay their crew and invest in materials for their next project. Paying them and doing so on time ensures they can continue with their business, and without interruption. It’s also helpful to leave them a good review, so their next client knows if they did a good job for your property.
Is Stamped Concrete a Good Investment?
Stamped concrete is an excellent choice for any property! Stamping and staining concrete allows you to enjoy the look of upscale stone, brick, and other materials but without the high price tag. Additionally, staining means that you can control the finished color of your outdoor surfaces more readily than if you opted for natural stone.
Also, note that manufacturers create concrete with abundant materials easily harvested, including sand, gravel, and cement. However, harvesting stone often involves lots of blasting and digging, which can hurt the environment. Concrete is also easy to recycle. In turn, it’s a very eco-friendly material!
Stamped concrete is typically far more affordable than most stone, brick, and paver options. In turn, you can enjoy a large patio or pool deck, walkways, a new driveway, and other stunning surfaces around your home without breaking your budget!
What Do I Need to Know Before Pouring Concrete?
Before pouring concrete, it’s vital to note that its thickness depends on overall foot traffic and expected wear and tear. In turn, don’t ask your installer to reduce your costs by reducing the thickness of your patio or pool deck! Overly thin concrete might break or crack prematurely, risking costly damage.
Also, note that your contractor might suggest changes to your property’s soil before concrete installation. Too much moisture in the soil can risk concrete damage including cracking and spalling. Consequently, your property might need better grading or drainage, to protect that concrete.
Above all, consider that concrete needs maintenance over the years! That means sealing, pressure washing, and crack patching. These simple steps ensure the concrete lasts as long as possible.
