How to Start a Concreting Businesss

Concreting is the backbone of much of America’s infrastructure, from sidewalks and driveways to foundations, patios, and industrial floors. For those looking to build a hands-on career with solid demand and income potential, becoming a concreter (also known as a concrete finisher) is a strong choice. Here’s what you need to know about entering this field in the United States.

What is a Concreting Business?

A concreting business provides a range of services related to the preparation, pouring, and finishing of concrete. Concrete is used in a variety of construction projects, from residential driveways and sidewalks to commercial foundations and industrial floors. As a concreting business owner, you would be involved in everything from mixing concrete to forming, pouring, and finishing surfaces.

Some common services offered by concreting businesses include:

1. Driveways: Pouring and installing concrete driveways, whether for new construction, replacement, or expansion.

2. Patios and Sidewalks: Installing and repairing decorative or functional concrete surfaces for outdoor spaces.

3. Foundations: Pouring concrete for building foundations, whether for residential homes, commercial buildings, or industrial sites.

4. Slabs and Floors: Installing concrete slabs for flooring, including in garages, basements, warehouses, and other large spaces.

5. Stamped Concrete: Offering decorative concrete services, including stamped, stained, or polished concrete surfaces that mimic stone, tile, or brick.

6. Retaining Walls and Curbs: Building retaining walls, curbs, and barriers for landscaping and commercial purposes.

Starting a concreting business can be highly profitable, especially in markets with high demand for construction or renovation work. The business involves a blend of manual labor, technical skills, and project management, and offers the flexibility to work on a range of projects.

Is Starting a Concreting Business Enjoyable?

For those who enjoy hands-on, physical work and being part of large-scale construction projects, a concreting business can be very enjoyable. Here’s why:

1. Variety of Projects: The work involves a wide variety of projects, from residential driveways to large commercial foundations. This variety can keep the job interesting and engaging.

2. Tangible Results: Concrete is a durable, lasting material, and the work you do will have long-term visual and functional results. Seeing a completed concrete driveway, patio, or foundation can be highly satisfying.

3. High Demand: Concrete is a crucial part of construction, and the demand for concreting services tends to remain steady, especially in growing regions where new homes and businesses are being built.

4. Flexibility and Independence: If you decide to start your own concreting business, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to set your own hours and pick the types of projects that interest you. Running a business also offers the potential for growth and financial independence.

5. Physical Work and Outdoor Environment: For those who prefer outdoor work and staying physically active, the concreting trade offers a rewarding way to stay engaged. However, the work can also be physically demanding, requiring long hours in varying weather conditions.

Education and Qualifications Needed

To start a concreting business, you don’t necessarily need a formal college degree, but you will need practical experience, some technical knowledge, and certain business skills. Here’s a breakdown of the typical path:

1. Experience in the Trade: The most important qualification for becoming a successful concrete contractor is hands-on experience. Many concreters start by working as laborers or apprentices for established companies. This allows them to gain practical knowledge in mixing, pouring, finishing, and curing concrete.

2. Trade Schools or Certification Programs: Some people choose to attend trade schools or certification programs that teach concrete finishing techniques, safety practices, and other essential skills. These programs typically last from 6 months to 2 years and can help you gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice.

3. Licensing: In many states, contractors, including concrete contractors, are required to obtain a license to operate legally. The requirements for licensing vary by state, but they generally include passing a written exam, demonstrating experience in the field, and having insurance and bonding. The exam may test knowledge of construction codes, laws, and business practices.

4. Safety Training and Certifications: Concrete work involves certain risks, such as lifting heavy materials and working with machinery. It’s essential to have safety training and certifications to prevent accidents and injuries. Many companies require OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certifications for their employees, and it’s a good idea to complete first-aid training as well.

5. Business Skills: If you’re running your own concreting business, you’ll need some basic business skills. Understanding how to estimate project costs, manage finances, and market your services is essential for success. You may want to take courses or read up on small business management, or even hire an accountant or business consultant as your business grows.

Tools and Equipment Needed

A concreting business requires a variety of specialized tools and equipment. Below are some of the essential items you’ll need to get started:

1. Basic Hand Tools:

   • Trowels (Float, Finishing, and Margin): $15 – $50 each

   • Concrete Edgers: $10 – $50

   • Hand Tamper: $20 – $40

   • Shovels and Rakes: $10 – $30

   • Concrete Brooms (for finishing): $20 – $100

2. Power Tools:

   • Concrete Mixers (Portable): $400 – $1,000

   • Concrete Vibrators (to remove air bubbles): $150 – $400

   • Power Trowels: $500 – $3,000 (depending on size)

   • Concrete Cutters (Sawing): $300 – $1,000

3. Heavy Equipment (for Larger Jobs):

   • Concrete Trucks (for mixing and delivering large volumes): $50,000 – $150,000 (for a used truck)

   • Skid Steer or Mini Excavator (for digging and moving materials): $15,000 – $60,000

   • Forklifts or Material Handlers: $10,000 – $40,000

4. Safety Gear:

   • Hard Hats: $20 – $50

   • Gloves and Knee Pads: $10 – $40

   • Steel-Toe Boots: $50 – $150

   • Eye Protection: $10 – $30

   • Hearing Protection: $10 – $50

5. Other Supplies:

   • Forms (for molds and shapes): $50 – $300 depending on size and type

   • Rebar and Steel Reinforcement (for added strength in slabs): $100 – $500 per project, depending on size

Estimated Startup Costs: To start a concreting business, your initial costs will vary depending on the size and scope of the operation. For a small, equipment-focused business, expect to spend between $10,000 to $30,000 on tools and equipment. If you plan to purchase a truck or larger machinery, you may need to invest $50,000 or more.

How Profitable is a Concreting Business?

Concreting can be a highly profitable business, especially if you’re able to secure large commercial contracts or establish a good reputation in residential markets. Here’s an overview of potential earnings:

1. Hourly Rates:

   • Laborer/Helper: $15 – $25 per hour

   • Experienced Concreter/Finisher: $25 – $50 per hour

   • Specialized Work (e.g., Stamped Concrete, Foundations): $50 – $100 per hour, or more

2. Project Pricing: Concreting businesses typically charge per square foot or by project. For example:

   • Driveways: $3 to $10 per square foot (depending on location, size, and complexity)

   • Patios or Sidewalks: $5 to $15 per square foot

   • Foundations or Slabs: $4 to $10 per square foot

   • Decorative or Stamped Concrete: $12 to $25 per square foot (due to the additional labor and materials)

3. Annual Earnings:

   • Small Business (with a few employees): Expect to generate $150,000 to $500,000 annually in revenue. Profit margins can range from 10% to 30%, depending on your operating costs and the types of projects you take on.

   • Established Business (with steady contracts): With larger contracts, particularly in commercial construction, revenue can exceed $1 million per year. This depends on securing regular projects and developing a reputation for high-quality work.

4. Additional Income Sources: If you own heavy machinery like concrete mixers or excavators, you may be able to rent out this equipment when not in use, generating additional income. Offering specialized services like decorative concrete or landscaping can also increase your revenue.

How to Find Clients

1. Word of Mouth and Referrals: Like many construction-based businesses, the concreting industry thrives on referrals. Building a reputation for quality work and excellent customer service can lead to repeat clients and word-of-mouth recommendations.

2. Online Presence: Establishing a website and maintaining active social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram) can help attract new clients. Showcasing before-and-after photos of your completed projects is a great way to demonstrate your expertise.

3. Networking: Partnering with general contractors, architects, landscapers, and other construction professionals can help you secure larger projects. Networking with property developers and real estate agents can also lead to consistent work.

4. Local Advertising: Flyers, local newspapers, and targeted online ads (Google Ads, Yelp) can help spread the word. Listing your business on platforms like Angie’s List, Thumbtack, and Houzz can help attract customers actively seeking concrete services.

5. Home Improvement Shows and Expos: Attending local trade shows or expos can give you the opportunity to meet potential clients and market your services directly.

Conclusion

Starting a concreting business can be both profitable and rewarding, especially if you enjoy working with your hands, managing construction projects, and building lasting structures. With steady demand for concrete services in both residential and commercial sectors, the opportunity for growth and success is high.

While it requires an investment in tools, equipment, and training, the potential for financial independence and business growth is significant. By building a strong reputation, networking with key industry players, and offering high-quality service, you can establish a thriving concreting business.