The world's foremost resource on decorative concrete
Estimating for a concrete project is a must for virtually every type of concrete project. It’s also one of the most time-consuming jobs in running a successful business. The phone rings, the receptionist answers the call. A friendly dialog ensues, and the receptionist takes down the person’s name, number, and […]
1build is the only real-time data platform for construction estimating. Recently, the company announced new features for its all-in-one construction and cost estimation platform. Th software now comes with real-time pricing data for labor and materials in every US county built right in. The result is the only solution in […]
Ever wonder where 21 square feet per bag or 300 square feet per gallon comes from? Coverage or application spread rates aren’t just a made-up number or educated guess. Determining coverage rates is always based on a mathematical constant known as the Theoretical Coverage Rate of a Coating. This in […]
As Benjamin Franklin once said, “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” This is very insightful and still holds true today, maybe more than ever. A relentless search for lower cost is par for the course among owners and general contractors, and […]
Floor flatness (FF) and floor levelness (FL) are measurements by which architects can hold concrete placement contractors accountable and provide a quality control level during the initial placement of concrete slabs.
There’s a lot riding on your price. It’s a reflection of your brand value and the perceived quality of your work. Customers will even use heuristics to determine if your price per square foot is consistent with what they would expect to gain from hiring you.
Pricing a polished concrete job is hardly cut and dried. There are many things to consider. There are more obvious factors, such as labor, fuel (diesel will probably be your largest expense next to labor), tooling, and travel expenses. There are also various factors about the floor itself that must be considered.
I wish I had 10 cents a square foot for every time I’ve been asked this question. And other questions such as: How much more does stamping cost compared to regular concrete? Are stained floors more than tile? I’ve realized over the years that all the above questions are legitimate and deserve an honest answer.
For the decorative concrete contractor — or any contractor — the estimating stage of any project is critical. Here at the Renew-Crete Systems training seminars, I stress the importance of a complete and thorough estimate.
Take your time… and get it right! The good news is that you can make more money on decorative concrete than on plain old flatwork. Prices can increase by anywhere from $2 per square foot to as much as $13 per square foot in some states.
