By The decision of whether you should pour concrete yourself or hire an expert is critical when planning a project that involves concrete, like a patio, driveway, or walkway. Cost is a major consideration. Pouring concrete can be a difficult task, even though DIY projects are often cheaper. We’ll break down all the factors and see if pouring your own concrete is cheaper.
Costs of Materials and Equipment
Concrete can be cheaper to pour yourself. Concrete is relatively inexpensive. Prices can range from $100 to 150 per cubic yard depending on where you live and the quality of your mix. The costs do not stop there. Renting or buying necessary equipment is also a factor to consider.
- Concrete Mixer: Concrete mixers are essential for large concrete quantities.
- Concrete Forms: These forms are needed to form the concrete according to your design.
- Tools: For spreading, leveling, and finishing concrete, you will need trowels, screeds, and floats.
These tools can cost hundreds of dollars. If you do not already have basic tools like wheelbarrows or shovels then these are additional costs.
Labor Investment and Time Investment
Even though doing it yourself can save you money on labor, it is important to take into account the value of your own time. Pouring concrete can be labor-intensive, especially when it comes to large projects. Concrete sets up quickly, so it requires precision timing and coordination. Incorrect leveling, poor finishing, or other mistakes can result in costly repairs, or even the need to restart the process.
The learning curve is steep for those who are inexperienced. A poorly poured concrete may result in a surface that is uneven, cracking, or drainage problems. This can lead to more expensive repairs and replacements in the future.
When to Consider Hiring Professionals
Although it may be tempting to cut labor costs by doing the job yourself, hiring professionals is more cost-effective when large projects are involved or precision is required. Concrete contractors are equipped with the tools and expertise to do the job correctly and efficiently. They are also able to handle any unexpected challenges, such as difficult terrain or adverse weather conditions.
Balancing Cost and Expertise
Pouring your own concrete is cheaper when you are working on a simple, small project. You will also save money if you have the right tools and confidence in your abilities. For larger, more complex projects, it may be cheaper to hire a professional. When deciding to DIY or hire professionals, you should consider the potential for costly errors, the value of time, and the final quality of the product.
This post was written by a professional at Apexx Enterprise LLC. Adam Ortega founded the company Apexx Enterprise LLC, in 2016 at only 20 years old. Mr. Ortega has become a licensed general concrete contractors Oro Valley AZ like his father and grandfather before him. Apexx Enterprise LLC is licensed, bonded, and insured and it is available for review at the Better Business Bureau. Apexx Enterprise LLC has won many achievements within the Home Advisor platform and we have multiple reviews as well. Their Mission Statement – “Our crew at Apexx Enterprise will perform the highest quality construction services for our customers. We aim to achieve our mission through total service satisfaction and by delivering our services while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and honesty.”
