Concrete contractors in Florida - free quotes

Florida’s year-round construction season keeps concrete contractors busy every month. From driveways and pool decks to patios and seawalls, concrete is one of the most in-demand home improvement services in the state. But Florida’s sandy soils, high water table, and hurricane-driven building codes create conditions that demand experienced contractors.

We connect Florida homeowners with concrete professionals who understand local soil and weather conditions. Get free quotes and compare prices before you commit.

Florida licensing requirements

Florida has one of the most rigorous contractor licensing systems in the country. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) oversees all construction contractor licensing.

The most common license classifications for concrete work are:

• Certified General Contractor (CGC). Covers all types of concrete work statewide, including structural and flatwork. This license requires passing a comprehensive exam covering business, financial management, and construction knowledge.
• Certified Building Contractor (CBC). Authorizes residential and commercial concrete work on buildings up to three stories. Also requires passing state exams.
• Registered Contractor. Licensed at the county level rather than statewide. Valid only within the issuing county.
• Concrete Finishing Specialty Contractor. Some counties issue specialty licenses for concrete flatwork and finishing.

All licensed Florida contractors must carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage for their employees. Before hiring any contractor, verify their license status at the DBPR website. Florida’s MyFloridaLicense.com portal lets you search by name, license number, or business name and shows license status, disciplinary actions, and complaint history.

For additional guidance, see our guide to hiring a concrete contractor.

Average concrete costs in Florida

Concrete costs in Florida generally fall near national averages. Labor rates are slightly lower than the northeast but higher than some southeastern states. Material costs can spike during hurricane season due to demand surges.

For detailed pricing, see our concrete driveway cost guide and patio installation guide.

Florida-specific cost factors

• Sandy soils. Much of Florida sits on sandy, porous soil that drains quickly but offers poor structural support. Proper subbase compaction and thicker slabs are often necessary to prevent settling and cracking.
• High water table. Florida’s water table is close to the surface in many areas, particularly along the coast. This affects foundation work, requiring dewatering or raised slab designs in some locations.
• Hurricane building codes. Florida’s strict building codes, especially in wind-borne debris regions, can affect concrete work on structures. Foundation tie-downs and reinforced concrete are common requirements. These codes protect your home but add to project costs.
• Year-round season. Unlike northern states, Florida contractors pour concrete year-round. Peak demand runs October through May when snowbirds and seasonal residents schedule projects.
• Pool decks. Florida’s pool culture drives high demand for pool deck concrete work. Cool-deck coatings and textured finishes that reduce surface temperature are popular additions that increase cost.

Soil and climate considerations

Florida’s geology is unlike most other states, and concrete work here requires region-specific knowledge.

South Florida. Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach sit on porous limestone with a very high water table. The limestone base provides decent bearing capacity but is susceptible to dissolution (sinkholes). Concrete work near the coast requires sulfate-resistant cement due to elevated sulfate levels in the soil and groundwater. Hurricane wind load requirements are the most stringent in the state.

Central Florida. Orlando, Lakeland, and the I-4 corridor have sandy soils with occasional clay deposits. The water table is variable, and sinkholes are a concern in some areas. Foundation work may require additional investigation in known sinkhole-prone zones.

Tampa Bay area. A mix of sandy soil and clay with variable water table depth. Sulfate resistance may be needed in low-lying areas near the bay. Hurricane building codes apply throughout the region.

North Florida. Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and the panhandle have more diverse soil conditions including clay deposits similar to Georgia. Mild freeze-thaw cycles occur during winter, making air entrainment a smart addition to exterior concrete mixes.

Seasonal considerations for concrete in Florida

Fall through spring (October through May). The best time for concrete work in most of Florida. Moderate temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal afternoon thunderstorms create ideal conditions. This is also peak demand season, so book 4 to 8 weeks in advance.

Summer (June through September). Hot, humid, and punctuated by daily afternoon thunderstorms. Concrete can still be poured successfully, but contractors should schedule morning pours that finish before the typical 2 to 6 PM storm window. The heat accelerates the curing process, and retarding admixtures may be needed for larger pours.

Hurricane season (June through November). Active hurricane seasons can disrupt construction schedules and spike material costs. Concrete and aggregate prices may rise 10% to 20% after a major storm as rebuilding demand surges. If you are planning a project during this window, discuss weather contingency plans with your contractor.

Cities we serve

• Concrete contractors in Tampa

More Florida cities coming soon. Get a free quote for your concrete project anywhere in Florida.

FAQ

Do concrete contractors need a license in Florida?

Yes. Florida requires concrete contractors to hold an active DBPR license, typically a Certified General Contractor (CGC) or Certified Building Contractor (CBC) classification. Some counties also issue specialty licenses for concrete work. Verify any contractor’s license at the DBPR website before hiring.

What concrete mix works best in Florida?

Standard concrete with a minimum compressive strength of 3,000 to 4,000 PSI works well for most Florida flatwork. In coastal areas, sulfate-resistant concrete (Type II or Type V cement) is recommended to protect against sulfate attack from the soil and groundwater. For pool decks, ask about cool-deck coatings that reduce surface temperature. Your contractor should specify the right mix for your location and project.

When is the best time to pour concrete in Florida?

Fall through spring (October to May) offers the most comfortable conditions for concrete work. Summer pours are common but require extra care with curing to prevent rapid moisture loss in heat and humidity. Avoid scheduling outdoor pours during afternoon thunderstorm season (June through September) when sudden rain can damage fresh concrete.

How do Florida’s sandy soils affect concrete work?

Sandy soil drains quickly, which is generally positive for concrete, but it offers poor structural support. Contractors need to compact the soil thoroughly and may need to bring in base material or use geotextile fabric to create a stable foundation. Skipping proper compaction leads to uneven settling and cracking within a few years.

Do I need sulfate-resistant concrete in Florida?

In many coastal and low-lying areas, yes. Sulfates in Florida’s soil and groundwater attack standard Portland cement and cause internal deterioration. Your contractor should evaluate conditions at your site and recommend Type II or Type V sulfate-resistant cement where needed. This is especially important for foundations and any concrete in direct ground contact.

How do Florida’s building codes affect concrete projects?

Florida’s building codes are among the strictest in the country, driven by hurricane resistance requirements. For flatwork like driveways and patios, the primary concern is proper grading and drainage. For structural concrete (foundations, tie-down systems, attached structures), the code specifies reinforcement, connection methods, and wind uplift resistance. Your contractor should be thoroughly familiar with the Florida Building Code requirements for your area.