7 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Concrete Contractor in East Tennessee

Choosing a concrete contractor for your driveway, patio, or foundation is a major decision. The concrete is the literal foundation of your property, and you need a partner who understands both the technical demands of the material and the unique conditions of the East Tennessee environment.

From the clay soil near Knoxville to the seasonal moisture and temperature swings, the wrong approach can lead to cracks and failure in just a few years.

To protect your investment and ensure a lasting result, here are the seven most critical questions you must ask any concrete contractor before signing a contract.

1. Are You Fully Licensed, Insured, and Bonded to work in Tennessee?

This is non-negotiable and should be your first question. A reputable contractor will have the following:

• License: Confirms they are legally registered to operate in the state and adhere to industry standards.
• General Liability Insurance: Protects your property from damage in the event of an accident.
• Worker’s Compensation Insurance: Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your job site.

If a contractor hesitates or says they don’t carry full insurance, politely end the meeting. The risk of being financially liable for an accident is simply too high.

2. What is Your Specific Experience with Projects Like Mine in this Area?

Concrete work is not one-size-fits-all. Poured foundation footers require different expertise than a decorative stamped concrete patio.

• Ask for a Portfolio: Review photos of their completed projects, focusing on those similar to yours (driveways, slabs, etc.).
• Ask for Local References: Since East Tennessee features diverse soil types (especially heavy clay), look for contractors who have successfully completed projects near your specific town (Knoxville, Chattanooga, Maryville, etc.). References confirm their track record and quality of work.

3. What Concrete Mix and Reinforcement Will You Use?

This is a technical question, but it’s essential for longevity. The quality of the concrete mix and the internal reinforcement determine how well your slab will resist cracking and settling.

• Ask about the Mix: For residential projects like driveways, most contractors use a standard PSI mix. An expert will explain why their specific mix is suited to local freeze-thaw cycles and heavy loads.
• Ask about Reinforcement: Will they use rebar, wire mesh, or a combination? A quality job, especially for heavy-duty areas, requires robust reinforcement to handle the shifting and expansion caused by changing East Tennessee weather.

Local Tip: A contractor who emphasizes proper sub-base preparation—ensuring the ground is stable and compacted before the pour—shows a commitment to long-term quality over speed.

4. Does Your Detailed Quote Include Site Prep, Permits, and Cleanup?

A low bid often means essential steps are excluded. Your final estimate should be an itemized contract, not just a single number. Ensure the following are clearly included:

• Demolition and Removal: Hauling away your old concrete, soil, or debris.
• Site Preparation: Excavation, grading, and compacting the sub-base.
• Permit Acquisition: Who is responsible for pulling necessary city or county permits? A professional contractor should handle this entirely.
• Cleanup: Will they leave your yard and project area broom-clean?

5. What is the Estimated Timeline for the Entire Project, Including Curing Time?

Understanding the schedule prevents surprises and helps you plan your life around the project. Be wary of contractors who promise impossibly quick turnaround times.

• Ask for the Project Duration: How many days for demolition, prep, and pouring?
• Ask for the Curing Schedule: A professional will specify exactly how long the concrete needs to cure (harden) before you can walk on it (typically 24–48 hours) and drive on it (usually 5–7 days, or more). Rushing the curing process compromises the concrete's strength.

6. Do You Provide a Written Warranty on Your Workmanship?

A quality concrete installation should last for decades. A contractor who stands behind their work will offer a warranty in writing.

• Clarify the Terms: What does the warranty cover (e.g., defects in workmanship, premature cracking, settling)? What is the duration (e.g., one year, five years)?
• Understand Exclusions: A warranty will usually not cover damage caused by misuse or extreme external forces, but the terms should be clear and understandable.

7. Who Will Be My Main Point of Contact, and How Do You Handle Communication?

Clear, consistent communication is the key to a stress-free project. You need to know who to call if you have a question or if a concern arises on site.

• Is the project manager or the business owner the point of contact?
• How often should you expect updates (daily, weekly)?
• How will they notify you of unavoidable delays (e.g., weather-related)?

Ready to Lay a Strong Foundation for Your Project?

At JNM Construction LLC, we pride ourselves on transparent communication, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of East Tennessee's unique construction needs. We welcome all these questions and are ready to provide the licensed, insured, and experienced answers you need.

• Contact us today to schedule a site visit and receive your detailed, no-obligation estimate.