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CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR
The contractor, not the concrete itself, has the biggest influence on the outcome of a project and so they must be chosen carefully. No matter if you’re interested in a driveway, patio, walkway, or other type of project, there are plenty of professionals out there who can help you. However, because there is no licence or qualification required for a contractor doing exterior work, nor is there a NZ standard, it's important to chose a contractor that will do a thorough and proper job.
Hiring a concrete contractor is more than just finding a name on an internet search or choosing the lowest price. If you want to ensure your project gets done on time, on budget, and with quality in mind.
Use the following tips to make the right decision...
✓ Do your research.
Before you hire anyone, you need to do your research. A simple internet search will give you a list of potential contractors in your area but consider also asking friends and family members for referrals. If you conntact your local Bridgeman Concrete plant they can refer you to concrete contractors who have a good reputation.
✓ Look for experience.
You want to ensure you choose a contractor who has experience. Try to choose one who has been in the business for at least five years, as this will give you some level of stability and reliability. Experienced contractors will actively be a part of your project while also providing insights and suggestions to help your project run smoothly.
✓ Ask for and contact references.
Before you sign any contract, always ask the contractor for a list of references, and then contact those references to learn more about the contractor and their operation. Be sure to ask questions regarding the type of project, the length of the project, the contractor’s communication and involvement, and the referee's overall opinion.
✓ Your gut feel
You can tell a lot about someone by the way he or she acts. Consider choosing a contractor that has a friendly demeanor, is willing to spend time meeting with or talking with you, answers your questions, and gets back to you in a timely fashion. This type of interaction can go a long way in proving their dedication and quality. If the contractor seems hesitant to answer any questions, doesn’t call you back, or seems standoffish in any way, consider it an unprofessional sign and move on.
Choosing the right contractor is essential to getting a great finished concrete project. When considering your options, be sure to use these tips to make the best choice.
✓ Compare prices.
When you meet with contractors, they will typically provide you with a quote for the project. Compare the information you receive and use this to help influence your decision. Look for quotes that included compacted sub-base, mesh on chairs, saw-cuts, and the correct concrete. Decide with the contractor who will be responsible for curing. If you have a big area, ensure the project is done in as few pours as possible as colour differences are likely - smaller operators may struggle to do this.
So, you should be wary about choosing a contractor based on price alone, especially if that quote is significantly less than others. These budget contractors may cut corners or provide low-quality work, and you don’t want your project to suffer just to save some initial money.