Hiring a concrete contractor might seem straightforward, but one wrong decision can cost you thousands. Cracks, uneven finishes, delays, or surprise fees often come from skipping the vetting process.
Even experienced property owners fall into this trap, trusting a contractor without asking key questions, only to face rework and disappointment later.
The good news? These problems are preventable. This guide walks you through the must-ask questions, enabling you to hire confidently, protect your investment, and ensure your concrete project is completed correctly the first time.
Why Choosing the Right Concrete Contractor Matters
Concrete isn’t just another material; it’s the foundation of your driveway, walkway, patio, or parking lot. Once poured, it’s permanent. And if it’s done wrong, fixing it can be expensive, time-consuming, and stressful.
The Portland Cement Association (PCA) advises property owners to verify the credentials, job site practices, and mix specifications of any contractor before hiring, to ensure structural durability and code compliance.
The right contractor ensures your project is built to last. They bring the right tools, proven techniques, and knowledge of local codes and climate conditions. A professional concrete contractor will:
- Recommend the proper mix for durability
- Follow city and county regulations.
- Schedule around weather delays
- Communicate clearly throughout the project.
- Use high-quality materials that withstand traffic, time, and weather.r
On the other hand, hiring the wrong team can lead to cracks, drainage issues, rework, and increased costs. In short, the person you hire directly affects how well your concrete performs and how long it lasts.
Top Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Concrete Contractor
Choosing a concrete contractor isn’t just about finding the lowest bid; it’s about finding a team that’s reliable, experienced, and transparent. Asking the right questions can protect you from costly mistakes, delays, and poor-quality work. Here are the top questions every homeowner or project manager should ask before signing a contract:
1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
This is the first and most important question. A professional contractor should carry proper licensing, bonding, and insurance to protect both their crew and your property.
Why it matters:
Licenses show they meet local industry standards. Bonds protect you financially if they don’t complete the job, and insurance covers accidents or damages on-site.
What to check for:
- A valid contractor license (state or city registered)
- Proof of bonding
- General liability and workers’ compensation insurance
Pro Tip: Don’t just take their word for it; ask to see documentation.
2. How Many Years of Experience Do You Have with Projects Like Mine?
Not all concrete jobs are the same. A contractor who excels at driveways may not possess the skills required for decorative patios or commercial work.
Why it matters:
Relevant experience means they’ve faced and solved similar challenges before, leading to fewer mistakes and faster results.
Ask specifically:
- “Have you completed projects like this recently?”
- “Do you have photos or references from similar jobs?”
- “How do you handle [specific features] in this type of project?”
3. Can I See Examples of Past Work or Speak to Previous Clients?
A credible contractor will proudly share examples of their work and offer absolute client references.
Why it matters:
Seeing finished projects helps you judge quality, and talking to past clients gives insight into punctuality, cleanliness, and professionalism.
What to ask for:
- 3-5 recent project photos
- At least two client contacts or testimonials
- Links to Google reviews or other rating platforms
Red flag: If they hesitate or delay sharing references, consider it a warning sign.
4. What Type of Concrete Mix and Materials Do You Use?
The strength and longevity of concrete depend heavily on the quality of the materials used.
Why it matters:
Using the wrong mix or low-quality aggregates can lead to early cracking, discoloration, or sinking.
Ask about:
- PSI (pounds per square inch) rating of the mix
- Use of fibers or air-entrainment additives
- Whether they use ready-mix concrete from a certified supplier
5. Do You Handle Permits and Follow Local Codes?
Many concrete projects require city permits or must comply with local codes, especially those located near roads, sidewalks, or drainage systems.
Why it matters:
If your contractor skips this step, you may face fines or be required to redo the work.
Look for a contractor who will:
- Obtain necessary permits on your behalf
- Schedule any required inspections.
- Guarantee code-compliant work from start to finish
6. What’s Included in the Quote or Estimate?
Getting a quote isn’t enough-you need to understand precisely what it covers.
Why it matters:
Vague or verbal estimates often lead to hidden charges or disputes later.
Ask for:
- A written, itemized quote
- Breakdown of labor, material, equipment, and disposal costs
- Terms for project changes or unexpected issues
Pro Tip: Never rely on a verbal agreement. Get every detail in writing.
7. What Is Your Project Timeline and Availability?
Time is money, and a vague timeline can result in scheduling chaos.
Why it matters:
You need to coordinate with other services, and delays can affect your entire property.
Ask:
- “When can you start?”
- “How many days will the job take?”
- “What happens if the weather causes delays?”
Look for a contractor who incorporates weather buffers and communicates clearly about any changes.
8. How Do You Handle Weather Delays or Unplanned Issues?
Outdoor concrete work is sensitive to temperature, moisture, and wind.
Why it matters:
Pouring in bad conditions can ruin your surface and shorten its lifespan.
A reliable contractor should:
- Monitor weather forecasts closely
- Pause or reschedule when conditions are poor.
- Use proper curing methods for different seasons.s
Bonus Tip: Ask if they have heated tools or insulated blankets for winter work.
9. Do You Offer Any Warranties or Post-Project Maintenance?
Even with proper installation, concrete can crack over time, especially in freeze-thaw climates.
Why it matters:
Warranties demonstrate that the contractor stands behind their work, providing you with peace of mind.
Ask for:
- A written warranty (duration and what it covers)
- Follow-up services like crack repairs or inspections
- Maintenance packages, especially for driveways or walkways
10. Who Will Be On-Site, and Do You Use Subcontractors?
Knowing who’s doing the work helps ensure quality and accountability.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), hiring contractors who follow safety protocols, especially for formwork, curing, and the use of heavy machinery, is crucial for preventing accidents and protecting everyone on-site.
Why it matters:
Some contractors hand off jobs to third-party crews you’ve never met.
Ask:
- “Will your crew handle the work?”
- “Will there be a supervisor on-site daily?”
- “How do I reach you or the foreman during the project?”
Concrete Contractor Red Flags You Should Never Ignore
Some signs should immediately make you think twice:
- No written contract or license
- Vague answers to your questions
- Demanding full payment upfront
- Extremely low bids (often means cutting corners)
- Poor online reviews or none at all
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Why Choose Asphalt Coatings Company for Your Concrete Project?
At Asphalt Coatings Company, we combine expert craftsmanship with total transparency. Whether it’s a small residential project or a large commercial site, we offer:
- Licensed and insured crews
- 30+ years of experience in concrete and asphalt
- High-quality mixes and materials designed for durability
- Written estimates with no surprises
- Weather-aware scheduling and expert project planning
- Warranties and post-project support
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does concrete take to cure?
Concrete typically sets within 24 to 48 hours, but complete curing takes around 28 days. During this period, it continues to gain strength and durability.
Can concrete be poured in winter?
Yes, but cold weather requires special techniques. Contractors must use additives, insulated blankets, or heated enclosures to ensure proper curing in low temperatures.
How do I know the contractor used quality materials?
Ask for the concrete’s PSI rating, any admixtures used, and the supplier’s name. A professional contractor should have no problem sharing these details.
Should I get multiple quotes before hiring?
Absolutely. Compare at least two to three detailed estimates, not just on price, but also on experience, materials, warranties, and communication.
What if I need both concrete and asphalt work?
Choose a company like Asphalt Coatings Company, which handles both services in-house. It saves time, ensures better project coordination, and maintains quality control.
Build Smarter, Not Harder: Partner with Concrete Experts You Can Trust
Concrete is the foundation of your property, literally. When done right, it adds value, safety, and long-term strength. But the key to a lasting result starts with hiring the right contractor.
At Asphalt Coatings Company, we take pride in delivering high-quality concrete work with zero guesswork. From your first call to the final pour, we handle every detail with care, clarity, and craftsmanship.
Have questions? Need a quote? Let’s talk. Contact us today for a free, no-pressure consultation and get your project started the right way.
