Forecasts for the construction industry in Canada is an 8.8% growth in 2022. Because time is money, the pressure is on finding contractors that get the job done correctly and on time.
Most construction projects require a concrete contractor, but it can be tricky to find the right one. You need someone who communicates well, does quality work and meets deadlines. The following tips should help you find the concrete contractor who will give you the fewest headaches.
Research First
Whether you are familiar with the industry or not, never hire a contractor without extensive research. Check customer reviews, do background checks, and find out how long a contractor has been in business.
For example, if you need a stamped concrete contractor, you want one with a good reputation and adequate experience. Proper research helps you separate the amateurs and corner-cutters from the real stamped concrete experts you want for your project.
Get Recommendations
There is a workaround if you don’t have the resources to do in-depth research on several contractors. Speed up the process by getting recommendations from trusted sources.
Friends and family are usually good sources of reliable information about contractors in general. The best part is you can see the quality of the concrete work for yourself. You don’t have to rely on their judgment.
You can also ask your general contractor for a referral. People in the construction industry tend to be tight, so they are likely to know good concrete contractors.
Once you have the name of one or two likely candidates, you can find out more about their work. You still need to do research, but you have a much shorter list.
Compare Prices
When meeting with potential concrete contractors, always request a written quote and a schedule of work. Getting written estimates from different contractors can make it easier for you to compare prices and timelines. You also have more leverage when negotiating for better terms.
However, while comparing prices is essential, always remember to draw the line between practical and cutting corners. You do not want to compromise the quality of the work for lower prices.
Choose a concrete contractor who can give you a rationale for the quote and prove they are not overcharging you. Your must balance practical and realistic goals to get the best price for the highest quality of work.
Verify the Proper Licenses
Some cities like Toronto require a license for concrete contractors and permits for construction projects. Verify if your site needs a permit from the local licensing board. You can also use it as a resource to check if potential contractors have valid licenses.
Verifying a contractor’s license is also an excellent way to protect you from legal issues. For example, some projects will require a permit. You want a contractor to ensure you get these permits promptly before starting.
Shoot for the Right Experience
Hiring a concrete contractor with experience in the field is not enough. You want a concrete contractor that specializes in the specific job you need them to do.
For instance, if you need stamped concrete for your project, hire a contractor with experience handling pre-cast concrete products. Ask for samples of their previous work.
It also helps if they have certification. A contractor certification means they have a high level of skill and professionalism, which is always a plus.
A construction project has many moving parts. Before implementing any part of the project, you want to ensure you have done all the prep work. With this guide, you should be able to save yourself time and money when looking for a concrete contractor.
