3 Common (and Costly) Concrete Driveway Mistakes Made by Unprofessional Contractors

There are many contractors in San Jose, CA who offers concrete driveway services. It is so easy to just choose just anyone and have them do the work for you. You don’t even have to stick around and watch them work. However, a lot of things can go wrong if you are not careful in choosing a contractor. There are always bad contractors who are just in it for the money, not bothering to train and get licensed. Here are some of the most common and costly concrete driveway mistakes that could possibly happen.

Low-Quality Work

If you choose a contractor based on a super low bid, then don’t expect anything extravagant. A bid that is way too low than other bids you got from other contractors is a red flag. Any reliable contractor knows his limit when offering a low price. An extremely low bid may involve low-quality materials and minimal skill and expertise. You may have saved in the initial project but imagine how much you need to invest if it turns out bad and you need repairs to save your concrete space.

Improper Concrete Mix

A bad contractor does not know how to determine the proper ratio for a concrete mix. If they do but still do it improperly, it could indicate laziness or just not having the passion for concrete work at all. The durability and lifespan of a concrete slab highly depend on the proper mixing ratios prior to pouring. Aside from that, it could also be because the contractor did not spend enough time mixing the concrete. A reliable contractor should be trained on the proper measurement, mixing time, and sequence of mixing. If not, it could greatly affect the results they yield once the slab is dry and cured.

Doing the Job at the Wrong Time

One thing a licensed contractor is trained for is timing the project right. The climate is an important factor in scheduling the project. It is crucial for contractors to check the weather forecast and to know which time of the day it is best to do the work. Another thing that needs to be timed correctly is when to apply the sealer. Applying it too early could cause more harm than good.

The best way to avoid such mistakes and save yourself from unnecessary expenses is to take time researching about a contractor. Consider their experience, whether they are licensed or not, as well as some reviews from recent customers. It may take time and effort but it will be all worth it in the end.