Kettering Concrete Contractors: 5 Essential Questions to Ask

Are You Certified and Insured for Concrete Work in Kettering?

Certified contractors have the certifications they need to comply with Ohio State and Montgomery County codes for concrete. Insurance protects both the homeowner and the contractor in case something happens at your home. Certified contractors will provide you with certification for licensure and insurance as soon as possible.

Additionally, certified contractors know the rules and regulations that govern concrete installation in Kettering. They know what kind of permits are needed for certain projects and can assist you with filling out the application for those permits. If there is an accident while working on your property, insurance will cover the damages.

What type of insurance do contractors need to have?

Contractors should have general liability insurance to cover damages or injuries that occur during the course of their work. General liability insurance will cover damages to property, as well as injuries to people. Contractors should also have workers’ compensation insurance to cover any injuries that occur to their employees. Additionally, contractors should have a bond that provides financial protection for either party if the contractor does not perform all aspects of the job to specification.

Will You Obtain the Necessary Permits for My Concrete Project?

A professional contractor will fill out the permit applications for projects that require city approval in Kettering. There are many types of construction projects in Kettering that require permits, such as installing new driveways and doing work in the public right-of-way. Experienced contractors will be able to identify the projects that require permits and help you get them approved promptly.

Before a contractor begins a project, he/she should explain the permit requirements for the project to you. Contractors are aware that Kettering has made it easier to obtain permits by allowing you to apply for permits online through the “Access Kettering” website 24/7/365. This is beneficial for both you and the contractor. If a contractor does not obtain the proper permits for your project, the project could be shut down, and you could face fines and/or have to remove the work already done.

What types of concrete projects require permits in Kettering?

Permits are usually required for driveway extensions/installations in Kettering because of the zoning ordinances. Right-of-Way Construction Permits are required for any work in the public right-of-way area, including driveways, sidewalks, and curbs. Although most small residential concrete repairs/projects may not require permits, it depends on the scope of the project and its location.

What Experience Do You Have with Concrete Problems in the Local Area?

The climate in Kettering creates special challenges for concrete installation and durability. Local contractors who have been in business long enough understand the soil conditions that exist in different areas of Kettering (e.g., Indian Riffle Park). Contractors will be able to install your concrete correctly so that it endures the freeze-thaw cycles of the varying temperatures found in Ohio’s seasons.

Seasoned contractors also recognize the typical drainage problems found in areas of Kettering that surround Dogwood Pond and the surrounding residential neighborhoods. They will create the correct grade/drainage solution to prevent future water damage/concrete settlement.

Local experience equals better results and a longer life span for your concrete installation.

How does the local soil condition affect the concrete work?

Clay soils that exist in Kettering require special preparation techniques prior to pouring concrete. Correctly compacted soil will prevent the concrete from settling and cracking that is common in this region. Seasonal timing considerations affect how fast the concrete cures in Ohio’s varying weather conditions. Local contractors understand how to properly prepare the soil and when to pour the concrete itoachieve the best possible outcome.

Can I See Some Recent Local References/Portfolio Examples?

Most reputable contractors maintain a portfolio that includes photos and descriptions of the concrete work they have recently completed in Kettering and the surrounding Montgomery County communities. They will be happy to provide you with contact information for the neighbors of Lincoln Park Center, The Greene Town Center, and other local neighborhoods for which they have previously worked. These contacts will allow you to confirm the quality of the contractor’s work and his reliability.

Portfolio examples will display the contractor’s ability to complete a variety of concrete applications, including driveways, patios, sidewalks, and decorative concrete. The portfolio will include examples of the contractor’s latest work and the materials and techniques he is currently using in his projects. Most quality contractors take pride in their completed projects and are willing to provide testimonials to help showcase their abilities to potential customers.

What should I ask the previous customers of the contractor?

You should ask the previous customers about the contractor’s punctuality in completing the project, how clean the site was left after completion, and whether they were satisfied with the final product. You should also ask them about communication throughout the project and how the contractor handled any unexpected problems that arose. Lastly, you should ask about the performance of the concrete since completion and if the contractor came back to make any warranty repairs.

What Materials and Methods Do You Use to Produce a Long-Lasting Product?

Quality contractors will specify the correct type of concrete mix for Ohio’s weather conditions and for the intended use application. They will explain the reinforcement options available to you, including where to place rebar in driveways and how far apart to space control joints to minimize random cracking. Also, quality contractors will tell you about sealants that can be applied to the concrete to protect it from moisture penetration and freeze damage.

Most modern concrete contractors are using modern mixing techniques and quality aggregates supplied by regional suppliers. They understand how to cure the concrete to maximize its strength regardless of the temperature variations in Ohio. Finally, experienced contractors will provide you with a plan for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your concrete over time.

How important are the specifications of the concrete mix?

Having a good mix design for your concrete will give you the strength and durability you need to support the loads you will be placing on the concrete and will also allow the contractor to easily install the concrete. Additives that introduce air into the mix will improve the freeze-thaw resistance of the concrete, which is especially important for concrete used in Ohio’s climate. Fibers can be added to the mix to decrease shrinkage cracking and increase the overall performance of the concrete in residential applications.

At Kettering Concrete Solutions, we believe in answering all of these questions when helping you select a concrete contractor for your next project. We have a knowledgeable staff that will answer your questions about licensure, permits, local experience, references, and quality materials so that you can receive high-quality service for your concrete installation needs in the Kettering community.