Concrete resurfacing isn’t a project that homeowners are going to tackle themselves, and the results can vary heavily based on who you hire. If you’re in the process of comparing a few contractors and not sure how to tell them apart, here are seven helpful tips worth thinking about before you sign anything.
1. Confirm Their Licence And Insurance Directly
Ask for the actual licence number and check it yourself through NSW Fair Trading. Also confirm they carry public liability insurance and workers’ compensation. If something goes wrong on the job and a contractor isn’t properly covered, that risk can land back on you as the homeowner.
2. Read A Spread Of Reviews, Not Just The Star Rating
A 5.0 average means very little on its own, what actually matters is what’s written in the reviews. Do they mention specifics like communication, turnaround time, or the finished result, or are they vague and generic? We’re at 230+ Google reviews, and we’d genuinely encourage reading a handful before you decide, whoever you end up going with.
3. Ask To See Real, Local Jobs
A supplier’s marketing photos will always look perfect. What you actually want is projects that they have done elsewhere in your area, ideally something you can drive past. Our photo gallery shows real before-and-afters from driveways, patios and pool surrounds across Sydney, which is the kind of evidence worth asking any contractor for.
4. Compare Written Quotes, Not Verbal Ones
Get at least two or three written quotes before deciding. A proper quote should specify the surface area, the finish and colour, and exactly what’s included, e.g. masking, crack filling, sealing. If a quote is vague on any of that, ask for it to be spelled out before you commit.
5. Ask What’s Actually Being Sprayed On Your Concrete
Not all resurfacing products are the same. Ask whether it’s a proper bonded, cement-based coating or a cheaper paint-style product. Paint tends to last six to twelve months and can get more slippery when wet, not less. Also ask whether it carries a slip rating, ours is P5 which is the highest rating for exterior surfaces.
6. Ask How Long The Job Will Take
A contractor who’s actually inspected the job should be able to give you a firm timeframe, they shouldn’t give rough guesses. Most driveways take two to three days depending on size and weather. If someone’s quoting a same-day turnaround on a full driveway with no inspection, that’s worth questioning.
7. Ask What Happens If Something Goes Wrong Afterwards
Cracks can occasionally reappear over time due to ground movement, which is outside any contractor’s control, a good contractor should be upfront about that rather than promising it’ll never happen. Ask what their process is if you notice an issue after the job’s done, and whether that’s covered.
If you’re comparing quotes for a job in Sydney, get in touch for a free, no-obligation estimate. We’re also happy to answer any of the above directly.