Contractors are an integral part of any thriving community. Leading teams of workers in building structures for residential and commercial purposes, these professionals use analytical, creative, and leadership skills to bring a concept to life.
But what type of contractor should you become? With so many routes to travel during your contracting career, it can be tricky to decide what your best fit is.
In this article, we'll walk you through an essential yet often overlooked type of contractor: the Concrete Contractor.
What Is a Concrete Contractor?
While you may never have known that there are contractors who specifically work with concrete, this profession is incredibly in-demand due to the continuous use of this product.
Working with concrete requires a specific set of skills and knowledge. Professionals who work with it must understand the various concrete stages, from a dry, premixed formula to the hard finished surface we all walk on every day. That's where the concrete contractor becomes key.
With this specialty, contractors can lead builds and artfully execute the plans of any home design or commercial structure. Utilizing their educational or experiential knowledge and techniques of the trade, concrete contractors create top-notch facilities as beautiful as well as safe, and functional.
What Are The Jobs and Responsibilities of a Concrete Contractor?
While some concrete contractors work hands-on and others direct teams of workers, the responsibilities of this specialty typically fall into these categories.
Concrete Specifications
Before beginning a build, the contractor will need to settle on what type of concrete to use. It may surprise most people to know that there are different options. The concrete contractor will need to work with the client to decide the appropriate color, depth, size, shape, and finish.
It's essential to get these details settled before construction begins, as last-minute changes can cause delays in the build or add extra, unnecessary expenses.
Location Prep
Next up is preparing the site. In this stage, the concrete contractor will make sure the location is ready, remove any debris or shrubs, and excavate and level the ground as needed. This step is imperative to ensure a safe foundation for years to come.
Formwork
Formwork is the process of using plastic, metal, or wood mold to shape the concrete.
One of the benefits of this material is its versatility, allowing for easy molding to fit different designs. A concrete contractor is in charge of building the formwork before concrete placement.
Placement and Finishes
This is when the concrete itself takes center stage.
Concrete is poured into the form and allowed to set. During this process, contractors will ensure no air is in the concrete and add any finishes desired by the client. Finishes could be simple textures or more decorative elements using intricate designs and dyes.
Becoming a Concrete Contractor
Here is an overview of what you need to do to become a concrete contractor:
Education
While all states have different educational requirements to become a contractor, many suggest or require formal education. Many opt for a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or something comparable.
Experience
Next, you'll want to gain some helpful experience. This teaches you essential skills of the trade, and it also allows you to network with future clients and meet others in the industry.
Gain experience in the field and also do behind-the-scenes work in an office setting. A successful contractor excels on-site and in the office.
Licensure
In most states, you will need a license from the state board or other regulatory agency to become a contractor. This typically involves coursework, taking an examination, and passing a criminal background check.
The requirements do differ state to state, so make sure you research what your specific home state requires.
Need some help figuring out what to do? No worries. Contractor Training Center has state licensing experts ready to walk you through the whole process.
Talk to an expert to sort out your next steps to getting licensed on a Contractor Licensing Start-Up Consultation today!
Business Plan
Once you have your contractor license, you'll also need to get a license for your business. This involves establishing a business entity and registering it with the state, paying relevant fees, providing evidence of insurance, and proving financial capability.
Take some time to think through your business plan. Do you want to work in the residential or commercial realm? Do you intend to stay local or work throughout the state? Do you need additional investors to secure the equipment you need to get started? The more thought you put in upfront, the more successful your business will be down the line.
The Bottom Line
If a rewarding, lucrative career that keeps you on your feet and constantly engaged in new projects is what you're looking for, then a career as a concrete contractor may be in your future.
Contractor Training Center is here to help. With exam prep and study guides for your specific state and specialty, you're sure to succeed with CTC at your side.
Reach out today!