Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Hiring a Concrete Contractor (and How to Avoid Them)
Hiring a concrete contractor is a big decision. Whether you’re installing a new driveway, replacing your old sidewalk, or adding a stamped patio, the quality of the work will have a long-term impact on your home’s appearance and value.
Unfortunately, many homeowners rush into the process — and end up paying for it later. Here are the top five mistakes we’ve seen people make (and how you can avoid them):
1. Choosing the Cheapest Quote Without Asking Why
It’s tempting to pick the lowest bidder, especially when the numbers seem too good to pass up. But if one quote is much lower than the others, it’s worth asking: what’s missing?
Cheap jobs often cut corners on:
- Concrete thickness
- Prep work
- Reinforcement (like rebar or mesh)
- Clean-up
Tip: Instead of just comparing prices, ask each contractor to break down their scope of work so you can compare apples to apples.
2. Not Checking the Contractor’s Experience With Your Type of Project
Concrete work isn’t one-size-fits-all. A contractor might be great at flat driveways but have little experience with curved steps or decorative stamping.
Tip: Ask to see photos of similar past jobs. If you want stamped concrete, make sure they’ve done that kind of finish before — and ideally, multiple times.
3. Failing to Get the Details in Writing
Verbal agreements can lead to misunderstandings. A good contractor should have no issue putting everything in writing: what’s included, what’s not, the timeline, and the payment schedule.
Tip: Insist on a written contract that covers:
- Scope of work
- Start and end dates
- Payment terms
- Who handles permits (if needed)
- Warranty or guarantee info
4. Overlooking Proper Site Preparation
The most important part of any concrete job happens before the concrete is poured. Poor prep can lead to cracking, sinking, or drainage issues down the line.
Tip: Ask what prep steps are included — like removing soft soil, adding a gravel base, compacting, setting forms, and installing reinforcement.
5. Not Checking Reviews or References
Even if a contractor seems professional, it pays to do a quick background check. Online reviews and past customer feedback can reveal patterns — good or bad.
Tip: Look for reviews that mention communication, punctuality, cleanup, and how the work has held up over time. You can also ask the contractor for a few references.
Final Thoughts
Concrete work is an investment. Taking the time to ask the right questions, check references, and understand the scope can save you from stress, delays, and costly repairs.
If you’re considering a concrete project, we’d be happy to walk you through the process, show examples of past work, and give a clear, honest quote. No surprises — just solid work.