8 Tips for Finding Reliable Concrete Contractors in Boston

1. Select the Best Contractor in Your Area.

Boston’s climate and soil conditions, along with its unique architectural styles, call for a contractor with local experience. A contractor experienced in working in the Boston area knows the ins and outs of Boston’s permitting process, a process that can be lengthy and difficult to complete. He or she also understands what materials will perform well under Boston’s freeze-thaw cycle and that the concrete he installs will last for many years. For example, contractors who have installed concrete projects near historic neighborhoods like Beacon Hill or the North End have had to blend the aesthetic of old-time New England with the beauty of new concrete projects. Ask a contractor where they’ve done projects in your neighborhood.

In addition to local experience, contractors also have an advantage because they have developed good relationships with suppliers. Those relationships typically result in lower prices and quicker project completions. Don’t hesitate to ask a contractor how long they’ve been doing business in the Boston area and whether they’ve completed projects similar to yours. The contractor’s responses to those questions will instill confidence that the contractor has the capability to complete your project.

2. Obtain Proof of License, Insurance, and Certification.

You must verify a contractor’s licenses and insurance before you hire him or her. In Massachusetts, all concrete contractors must obtain a license from the Board of Building Regulations and Standards. That license certifies that the contractor has met the State of Massachusetts’ minimum requirements for professional competence and safety. When you’re considering hiring a contractor, request his or her license number and check it through the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards website. Also, ensure that the contractor has proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability insurance protects you from financial loss if a contractor causes damage to your property or injures one of your family members. Workers’ compensation insurance provides medical care and lost wages for a contractor who is injured while performing his duties on your property.

Obtaining certification from industry organizations such as the American Concrete Institute (ACI) is also beneficial. Industry certifications demonstrate a contractor’s willingness to continue learning and adhere to the most up-to-date methods and materials in the trade. A contractor who continues to learn and stay current in the trade is less likely to make mistakes or lose interest in the project.

3. Read Online Reviews and Get Personal Referrals.

Reading online reviews of a contractor is an excellent way to evaluate a contractor’s performance. Websites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau allow consumers to leave comments about their interactions with businesses. While reading online reviews is helpful, it is only a part of the evaluation process. To get a more complete picture of a contractor’s performance, ask for referrals from people who have previously hired the contractor to complete a project similar to yours.

When contacting a referral, ask questions like, “Was the contractor able to complete the project on time and within the budget?” “How did the contractor respond to unexpected problems or delays that arose during the project?” “Would you hire this contractor again?” Asking these questions will provide you with information that you may not find out through online reviews alone, such as the contractor’s problem-solving abilities and overall professionalism.

4. Evaluate and Compare the Bid Proposals.

While cost is important, the lowest bid is not always the best option. Request that three contractors provide you with a detailed bid proposal, including the scope of the project, the materials that will be used, the timeline of the project, payment terms, and warranties. Make sure that you review the detailed bid proposals carefully to determine which contractor has included the most value for your money. Be leery of bid proposals that are much lower than the other two bids. Those bids may include lower-quality materials or cutting corners to save money. Transparency is a must. A reliable contractor will take the time to explain each line item in the bid proposal and answer any questions you have. If a contractor is evasive or uncooperative when answering your questions, do not hire that contractor. By having a detailed bid proposal, you will protect yourself and the contractor from miscommunication and confusion.

5. Measure the Level of Communication and Professionalism.

Good communication is essential to completing a project. Pay close attention to how well the contractor responds to your phone calls and/or emails. Does the contractor respond promptly to your inquiries? Does the contractor actively listen to your ideas and concerns? A contractor who communicates effectively with you from the start of the project will likely keep you informed throughout the project.

Communication is just one aspect of a contractor’s professionalism. Punctuality and preparation are also important indicators of a contractor’s professionalism. Did the contractor arrive on time for your first meeting? Was the contractor prepared to discuss your project? Those small things show how seriously the contractor takes his or her work. A contractor who values professionalism will also provide a written contract that outlines the scope of the project, timeline, payment terms, and warranties.

6. Identify the Contractor’s Specialty.

Concrete construction involves a variety of different projects, including structural foundations, decorative patios, and driveways. Make sure the contractor you select specializes in the type of concrete construction you require. For instance, if you want to install a decorative concrete driveway, you’ll want to find a contractor who specializes in decorative concrete. Contractors that specialize in a particular type of concrete construction possess greater levels of skill and imagination, resulting in a finished product that is functional, safe, attractive, and meets your needs.

Request a portfolio of the contractor’s previous work so that you can assess their style and quality. Additionally, if you are uncertain about design options, a contractor that specializes in a particular type of concrete construction can assist you in choosing design options that complement your property’s architecture and your individual tastes.

7. Review the Contract Carefully Before Signing.

A good contract is a consumer’s protection against disputes and misunderstandings. The contract should clearly define the scope of the project, materials to be used, timeline, payment schedule, and warranties. Take your time to review the contract thoroughly and ask the contractor to clarify any terms you don’t understand. A contractor who pushes you to sign quickly or avoids discussing the contract’s terms is someone you shouldn’t trust.

Additionally, a good contract will contain provisions for dealing with change orders or unexpected problems that occur during the project. For instance, if a contractor discovers a problem during the project that requires additional work beyond what was originally agreed upon, how will the contractor deal with that situation? Establishing a plan for change orders prior to the project’s commencement will eliminate any surprise when the final bill arrives.

8. Determine if the Contractor Offers Warranties and Follow-Up Work.

Quality contractors support their work with warranties on the materials and labor they provided. Ask the contractor about the warranties they provide and what they cover. Some contractors may provide a limited warranty on the work they performed, while others may provide longer warranties on the materials. A solid warranty indicates the contractor believes in their work and provides peace of mind for the homeowner.

Also, determine if the contractor will provide follow-up services. Will the contractor return to correct any problems that develop after the project is completed? Will the contractor provide maintenance services to keep your decorative concrete looking as good as it did when the project was completed? A contractor that provides follow-up services is committed to building a relationship with you that goes beyond just completing the project.

Why Hire Boston Stamped Concrete Experts?

Boston Stamped Concrete Experts understands the unique challenges and advantages involved with performing concrete construction in Boston. Our staff of licensed professionals possesses extensive experience in concrete construction in Boston. Therefore, we are confident in our ability to complete your project with the utmost quality and care. We are here to help you improve your home with concrete construction that is both beautiful and functional. We will go above and beyond to exceed your expectations from the beginning of the project until the end of the project.