How to Start a Concrete Business: Ideas That Turn a Profit

Cement. Pavement. Asphalt. These terms are frequently used to refer to surfaces made of concrete, even though they are not correct. So, what exactly is concrete?

Concrete is a material composed of cement, aggregate (materials like gravel, crushed stone, or sand), and water. When cement and water mix, a chemical reaction causes the cement to harden and bind the aggregates together. This process continues over time, making concrete stronger as it cures. The ratio of water to cement is critical, as it significantly affects the concrete's strength.

Concrete is known for its durability and versatility, making it a fundamental material in modern construction. The ability to mold it into different shapes makes it useful for applications such as buildings, bridges, roads, and dams. Once hardened, concrete can withstand enormous loads and resist environmental stresses, contributing to its popularity as a building material.

Concrete is the most widely used building material on Earth after water. The raw materials required to make concrete — cement, sand, aggregate, and water — are abundant and widely available, which contributes to its extensive use globally. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global concrete industry generated $617.2 billion in 2020 and is anticipated to generate $972.04 billion by 2030, which reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2021 to 2030.

What You Need to Start Concrete Business

If you’re considering starting a concrete business, you’ll need a mix of construction training and experience, as well as the ability to run a business and manage employees. You must hire skilled workers, including drivers and machine operators, and ensure all staff are well-trained on safety procedures and equipment operation.

You’ll need to thoroughly research the market to understand the local demand for concrete services; identify potential clients such as contractors, developers, and homeowners; and analyze your competition. Once you understand the market landscape, you can choose which type of concrete business to start. The world of concrete is broader than you might think.

Here are some options to consider, depending on your interests and resources:

• Concrete contracting: This primary type of concrete business involves the hands-on aspect of laying and finishing concrete for various construction projects. Contractors handle tasks from pouring foundations for new buildings to laying concrete for driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
• Concrete mixing and supply: Businesses in this area produce ready-mix concrete that is delivered to construction sites. This service is crucial for clients who require large volumes of concrete that are ready to use on demand. This type of business requires a significant investment in machinery and equipment, such as cement mixers, trucks, and a batching plant.
• Concrete pumping: This service provides a solution for transporting concrete to sites that are inaccessible to conventional concrete trucks. It involves the use of specialized pumping vehicles and can be a lucrative niche in urban or developed areas where building spaces are confined.
• Concrete repair business: This area focuses on the longevity and upkeep of existing concrete structures. Services provided by concrete repair businesses include filling cracks, resurfacing old concrete, and applying protective coatings to extend the life of concrete surfaces.
• Concrete recycling: Focusing on sustainability, this business involves processing demolished concrete to make it reusable. It’s a growing field as more emphasis is placed on sustainable construction practices.
• Precast concrete: This type of business manufactures concrete products like blocks, pavers, and slabs. These products are then transported and installed at construction sites. This method is known for its speed and efficiency.
• Decorative and stamped concrete: For those with a creative streak, this niche involves using techniques like staining, polishing, and stamping to create aesthetically appealing concrete surfaces. This sector is popular in both residential and commercial markets for projects like decorative patios, floors, and countertops.

The Benefits of Opening a Decorative Concrete Business

By specializing in decorative concrete, you can set your business apart from general contractors. This specialization can be a strong selling point, making your business the preferred choice for clients looking for high-quality, decorative concrete work. Decorative concrete is versatile, suitable for new construction and municipal projects as well as home renovations. And since decorative concrete can resemble more expensive materials like stone, tile, brick, and even hardwood, it’s a popular choice for consumers trying to save money.

Decorative concrete techniques can be applied to floors, walls, patios, driveways, and more, offering versatile service options to clients. This versatility can help keep business opportunities plentiful.

Plus, if you have a creative streak, decorative concrete allows you to express this through your work.

Why Franchise with Concrete Craft

The processes involved in stamping, staining, and resurfacing concrete involve a lot of technical skill. If you have no experience in these techniques, decorative concrete can be a tough field to break into. That’s why, instead of starting a business from scratch, it’s wise to consider investing in a concrete franchise.

As a Concrete Craft franchisee, you don’t need any experience in concrete or construction, or even any artistic ability. We provide all our franchisees with intensive training — in both the classroom and the field. You’ll learn our proprietary stamping, staining, and resurfacing techniques, as well as how to efficiently run your business.

Concrete Craft is the largest decorative concrete franchise in North America. We’re backed by Home Franchise Concepts, a company that’s been in franchising for 30 years.

Get Started with Concrete Craft Today

Our proven business model and dedicated support structure simplify the startup process, allowing you to quickly launch and operate your business. If you’re ready to own a niche franchise in the profitable concrete industry, contact Concrete Craft today. We’ll show you how to make your mark in the dynamic world of decorative concrete.