Is this a resonable price for a cement job?

[jennielynn1970]

They told me if we dont' do it now (when they really need the work) and wait until next year, the price will be much higher!

Nice way to pressure a customer.

I'd bet if you got some other estimates, you might be able to get some other rates. I'd never go with the first one.

I'd also want someone who had more experience, but that's me. I know the only way to get experience is to get more jobs, but I guess I'd rather not be one of their firsts.

I had 5 different contractors look at my back yard area when I was interested in doing either hardscaping, landscaping or a deck. I went with a guy who actually gave me the best price, the best warranty (manufacturer had warranty on materials, he gave me a warranty on the labor of the same amount of years... 25yrs). I saw pics of the other work they had done, and even was invited to visit one of their work sites.

I'm extremely happy with my deck, and very happy that I had the amount of contractors look at it and give me prices and options.

[Medusa]

Yes, telling you that if you wait, the price will go up next year is just a sales tactic. The same people came to give me estimates again this year and their prices were the same. Not trying to tell you what to do but I'd feel more comfortable w/at least 3 estimates. Hope you're not confused now.

[M&M's Mommy]

We decided to let them do the work. $5000 is a HUGE amount of money, specially at this point in time.. but as long as we still earn salaries from our jobs, and that we're frugal in the way we live and hold off on our other project (building a planter), we'll be fine. It's a long term, one-time-only investment that will increase the value of our house - not like we want to sell it or anything - but it will greatly improve the outlook of our house. The old driveway is all cracked and bumpy and our frontyard was very poorly landscaped. After we finish, it should look much better.

I did have other estimates. One when we first bought our home last year, and one at the beginning of this year - both were a lot higher.

I did talk to my neighbor & get good words from them. so I am a bit more confident about making our most impulsive decision so far! I'm the type of person who always rather wanted to be safe than sorry, and who would normally do a thorough check on something before making any big decision. NOT this time! *sigh*. I'm crossing my fingers that I will not have to regret it!

[king2005]

about 15+yrs ago they wanted 5000.00 for a 2 car driveway!!! My folks laughed & said no thanks. We don't mind gravel, considering my dad is the one who dug 5' into the earth, hauled it away & replaced it with good earth & gravel.. + hes the one how dug under the house to make a basement. We were the only house in the whole area with a full sized basement hehe

So I guess it all depends on what you want & care to pay for. Most of the neighbours got their driveways paved & then they had to tar it nearly every year to keep it all pretty. We had to do nothing the 20+yrs we lived there.