Blog Layout
Maximizing Concrete Construction: Oahu's Local Experts vs. DIY – Why Choose Expertise?
Kurt Manalastas • Jul 18, 2024
Choosing whether to hire a concrete professional or simply build the project yourself is a question to ask that can pass through any homeowner’s mind when they think of having something made or redone on their property.
Opting to go DIY can be more affordable while at the same time offering a sense of personal achievement. It is flexible in terms of schedule and operations but it can come with challenges such as potential risks, mistakes, and putting in a lot of time and effort.
While cost can often be the biggest factor in making this decision, there are other important things to consider for the build such as the quality of the construction, the time and effort required to meet deadlines, and the specialized knowledge needed to complete the project.
But which of these two options are more viable and is there something more than being cost-effective when making this decision?
Experience
Professional
- Professional concrete workers and contractors are licensed and trained to specialize in working with concrete. They know the hows and whys in the processes and can work around surrounding issues or problems more smoothly to deliver the intended result.
- Having more experience as a professional meant knowing how to handle big and small projects. They are well versed in the techniques, are more connected with good quality supplies, and are savvy with current trends and styles allowing them many options to choose from just from understanding the requirements of a project.
DIY
- Because most homeowners are not trained in this field and rely mostly on individual knowledge, they would need to do intensive research on the process of handling concrete which can lead to the high possibility of many errors in the construction.
Equipment
Professional
- Professionals have access to specialized tools and equipment that can improve the efficiency and quality of the project, from concrete mixers and finishing equipment to heavy-duty machinery for more large-scale work.
DIY
- People who do DIY can lack the availability of tools specialized for the work, so they may either settle with basic tools which can affect the quality of the build or they would purchase or rent the equipment which would be another added cost.
Quality
Professional
- Trained and experienced professional techniques can deliver durable and high-quality results because of specialized expertise and the professional’s accessibility to good equipment.
DIY
- DIY projects can be a hit or miss. They may achieve close to what the intended design result should be but not quite the same in terms of quality and durability because of potential mistakes in the building process such as the mixing, pouring, and finishing.
Time
Professional
- Because of their extensive experience and access to skilled workers, professionals can complete projects faster with a more organized schedule to minimize the possibility of delays.
DIY
- DIY projects can sometimes take longer to build due to inexperience, limited knowledge of the process, and potential errors or unexpected challenges.
- Delays can also happen because of the lack of available time to work consistently on the project.
Cost
Professional
- Although hiring a professional can be more costly, keep in mind that you are not only paying them for their professional service but also the higher quality, durability, and longevity of your project.
DIY
- DIY projects can be seen as more affordable in terms of labor but very often there can be a stack of added costs due to problems that arise from the need to purchase equipment and supplies or the need to fix errors from the lack of experience.
Compliance and Safety
Professional
- Experienced professional workers are well-versed in the building code and regulations of your local area, this ensures your project follows the legal requirements in its construction.
DIY
- People who do DIY might not be fully aware of the local codes and regulations.
- Safety might be compromised in this method with people who are not familiar with safety procedures and protocols in the building process.
Overall, choosing between expertise and DIY all boils down to the scale and complexity of the project, the homeowner’s skill level and available time, and the importance of attaining a strong and high-quality result.
If still in doubt, it is always best to
consult your local experts for advice on which approach can balance all these factors within the scope of your construction project. Here at Oahu’s Local Experts, our seasoned professionals are well-versed in this field of work, not only are they most familiar with the regulations to adhere to when building structures in your area, but they additionally have more experience with the best techniques in constructing them.
Knowing all these and the processes required for the undertaking can help you in deciding whether to choose between doing it yourself or hiring an expert hand.
Learn about the essential tools and equipment Oahu concrete professionals use to ensure successful, high-quality projects. Get expert insights for your next concrete job.
Explore DIY concrete projects with creative ideas to enhance your home. From patios to planters, get inspired to take on your next concrete project.
Discover sustainable construction with eco-friendly practices, reduced cement use, recycled materials, and local sourcing from Oahu Concrete Professionals for durable, green projects.
Maximize concrete projects in Oahu: Compare DIY vs. local experts. Discover cost, quality, time, and safety benefits of hiring professionals for your build.
Get ahead with the Top Questions to ask your Oahu concrete contractor. Maximize results and avoid potential pitfalls.
Oahu Concrete Professionals stand out in the industry for their personalized approach to commercial concrete services delivering unmatched quality and precision for every project.
Many homeowners in Oahu choose to invest in concrete over other construction materials due to its versatility, durability, and affordability. It is a perfect choice for building both residential and commercial properties. But like any other thing in the world, concrete can deteriorate as time goes by due to Oahu’s weather conditions and harsh elements in the environment. But worry no more, because there are several ways you can enhance your concrete’s durability and prolong its lifespan. In this article, Oahu Concrete Professionals will guide you on how to achieve long-lasting results for your concrete investments. Regular Cleaning Leaving your concrete driveway, pathway, or patio to accumulate dirt and soil can lead to early deterioration. Cleaning on a regular basis is the first and easiest way to maintain the durability and beauty of your concrete investment. Just use a regular broom to sweep all the debris away, and water with a mild detergent and specialized concrete cleaner to get rid of hard to remove stains. Also, don’t use harsh chemicals because they can damage the surface of your concrete. Sealing Your Concrete Sealing is a process of putting a protective layer to the surface of your concrete making it protected from moisture, stains, and other damaging materials. It also helps to prevent water infiltration in the concrete, which leads to cracks and degradation. Due to Oahu’s climate, the usual reapplication of sealing is every two to three years. However, it is best to seek assistance from Oahu Concrete Professionals to ensure the best sealing result. Addressing Cracks Promptly Cracks are inevitable even with the best maintenance. It can still occur due to many reasons such as weather changes and natural calamities like earthquakes. However, addressing and repairing the cracks on your concrete ahead of time, will prevent them from expanding and the damages from getting worse. You can use a concrete patching compound to fill the small gaps in your concrete. But if the cracks are too large, it is best to ask for professional assistance to assess the damage properly. Protecting Against Heavy Loads As an owner of your concrete property, it is best to understand the amount of PSI that your concrete can carry. Different concrete types have various PSI strengths based on their purposes. Putting excessively heavy loads on concrete that doesn’t have the appropriate PSI strength for it can result in significant damage. It is best to distribute the weight evenly on the concrete surface and avoid using the area for activities that exceed its capacity to prevent stress and potential cracking. Managing Water Drainage Failing to manage the water drainage can result in pooling and erosion, which can lead to damage. That is why proper drainage is really important to secure your concrete. You can install drainage systems like French Drain to secure the grading of your property and direct the water away from concrete surfaces, extending its lifespan significantly. Regular Inspections To address the cracks promptly and provide a solution immediately, regular inspection is necessary. Look for any signs of cracks, discoloration, wear, and tear. By providing prompt solutions, it will help you save time, money, and your investment as time passes by. It is also helpful to schedule an annual inspection with Oahu Concrete Professional for thorough protection of your concrete property Professional Maintenance Services Many homeowners still prefer DIY solutions to severe problems, making the damages worse. Take note that it just looks easy but experts like Oahu Concrete Professionals can make all the difference. It is best to leave it in the hands of professionals to address the issue properly and provide appropriate solutions for repairing and maintaining the beauty and functionality of your concrete property. Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal The battle between your concrete and the damaging elements may be tough, but always remember that maintaining your concrete is not just about functionality. There are lots of decorative treatments such as staining or stamping that not only provide a decorative touch but also add an extra layer of protection against wear and tear. Educating Yourself Possibilities are endless and innovative concrete practices are being discovered and invented to help us maximize the potential of our concrete. It is best to keep yourself informed about the latest practices and technologies that you can incorporate into your concrete properties. You can also follow new trends and updates from Oahu Concrete Professionals to stay ahead in maintaining your property on the island. Concrete is notably durable among all other construction materials. But keep in mind that no material is strong enough without proper care and maintenance. By following this guide, you can help your investment maintain its beauty and functionality for many years to come. If you need professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Oahu Concrete Professionals today. Good luck with maintaining your concrete investment in Oahu!
Explore how Oahu concrete professionals use innovative materials and techniques to deliver superior results. Learn about the cutting-edge methods here!
There are many different popular types of stamped concrete to choose from. Check out this article for more information on your options for stamped concrete!
Concrete polishing is a great way to keep your home looking good and unique. GIve our professionals a call for more information on getting your new polished concrete today.