You need some concrete work done around your Weston home – maybe a new patio, a driveway repair, or a foundation pour for an addition. It's a big investment, and you want it done right. But how do you pick the right contractor when everyone's got a website and a truck?
I've been in this business a long time, seen a lot of good work and a lot of headaches. Here's what I tell folks to look for and what to ask before you sign on the dotted line.
What to Ask Before They Even Quote
Don't just jump straight to price. You need to know if they're even worth getting a quote from. Here are some key questions:
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. If they say no, or hem and haw, politely end the conversation. You need to be protected if something goes wrong, and so do their workers. Ask for proof – a certificate of insurance and their license number.
- How long have you been in business? Experience matters. Someone who's been around for a while has seen it all, knows the local conditions (like our tricky New England winters and the clay soil we often deal with around Weston Center), and has a reputation to uphold.
- Can you provide references? And don't just take their word for it. Call those references. Ask about communication, timeliness, quality of work, and if they'd hire them again.
- What's your typical project schedule? Good contractors are busy. If they can start tomorrow, that might be a red flag. But you also want a realistic timeline, not endless delays.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your crew or subcontractors? It's good to know who'll be on your property. If they use subs, ask about their vetting process.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
Once you get a quote, don't just look at the bottom line. A good quote is detailed. A vague quote is a problem waiting to happen.
- Detailed Scope of Work: Does it clearly outline exactly what they're doing? Preparations, excavation, base material, concrete thickness, PSI (pounds per square inch) strength, finish type (broom, stamped, etc.), control joints, sealing? The more detail, the better.
- Materials Specified: What kind of concrete mix are they using? What rebar or mesh? What type of base? Specifics help you compare apples to apples.
- Timeline: Does it include start and end dates, or at least a realistic timeframe for completion?
- Payment Schedule: A reputable contractor won't ask for 100% upfront. A reasonable deposit (10-30%) is common, with progress payments tied to milestones, and the final payment due upon satisfactory completion.
- Warranty Information: What kind of warranty do they offer on their work? How long does it last? Get it in writing.
- Cleanup: Does the quote include site cleanup and debris removal? You don't want to be stuck with a mess.
Red Flags You Can't Ignore
Some things should make you walk away, no matter how good the price seems.
- Cash-only deals: This screams