As with any building project, the level of quality and workmanship is dependent on the skill and experience of the tradesperson contracted to do the work, and the degree of supervision undertaken to ensure the finished job meets expectations. Determine the finish you require ‑ exposed aggregate, textured, coloured or stamped pattern - and seek paving contractors experienced in the type of work you have chosen.
For every concreter you contact, ask for a short list of recently completed jobs so that their work can be inspected. Take the time to visit these sites. If possible, talk to the homeowner to confirm their satisfaction with the concreter and the completed job. Following different site inspections, select two or three contractors to tender for your project.
Re-contact these contractors and describe the work and finish required. Invite them to quote and arrange a suitable time to meet and discuss the most practical options to suit the particular project ‑ driveway, path, pool surround, etc.
If the person contacted is a franchisee for a particular type of decorative patterned concrete, request that the same tradesperson be used who has done the work you have previously inspected.
Be sure to discuss guarantees and warranties and request them in writing. Discuss maintenance of the finished surface and how soon the path or drive can be used after construction. Consider quotations, work inspected and after‑sales service guarantees ‑ then choose a contractor.
The Tradesperson 
