Concrete contractors in Ohio - free quotes

Ohio homeowners rely on concrete for everything from driveways and patios to sidewalks, foundations, and retaining walls. The state’s freeze-thaw cycles, clay-heavy soils, and variable weather put concrete through demanding conditions that require experienced contractors who know how to build for longevity.

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

Ohio licensing requirements

Ohio does not require a statewide specialty license for residential concrete contractors. The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) licenses commercial contractors, but residential work falls primarily under local jurisdiction.

Key licensing and registration details for Ohio:

• No statewide residential license. Ohio does not require a state license for residential concrete contractors. This means homeowner due diligence is especially important.
• Local requirements. Many cities and counties require contractor registration, building permits, or both. Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron each have their own permit and registration requirements.
• Building permits. Most Ohio cities require permits for driveway installations, sidewalk replacements, and foundation work. Your contractor should pull all required permits.
• Insurance. Without statewide licensing, insurance verification is your primary protection. Confirm that your contractor carries general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask for certificates and verify they are current.

Since Ohio lacks the statewide licensing protections found in states like Oregon and Arizona, read our guide to hiring a concrete contractor to learn how to properly evaluate contractors in your area.

Average concrete costs in Ohio

Concrete costs in Ohio run near national averages, with prices slightly lower in rural areas and competitive in the Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati metros.

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

Ohio-specific cost factors

• Freeze-thaw cycles. Ohio winters bring repeated freezing and thawing that stress concrete surfaces. Columbus, Cleveland, and other northern Ohio cities experience 80 to 120 freeze-thaw cycles per year. Contractors should use air-entrained concrete mixes and proper curing techniques to prevent spalling and surface damage.
• Clay soils. Much of central and northeastern Ohio has clay-heavy soil that expands and contracts with moisture changes. Proper subbase preparation with compacted gravel is essential to prevent settling and cracking.
• Construction season. The busiest months for Ohio concrete contractors are April through October. Scheduling in early spring or late fall may get you better pricing and faster availability.
• Road salt exposure. Ohio’s heavy use of road salt affects driveways and sidewalks near streets. Salt accelerates surface deterioration, making proper sealing and higher PSI mixes important for driveways exposed to salt runoff.

Soil and climate considerations

Ohio’s geography creates different conditions across the state that affect concrete performance.

Northern Ohio. Cleveland, Akron, Toledo, and the Lake Erie region experience the harshest winters in the state. Lake-effect snow and sustained cold temperatures create more intense freeze-thaw cycles. Soils in northern Ohio tend to be clay-heavy with poor drainage. Air-entrained concrete with a minimum 4,500 PSI is strongly recommended for all exterior flatwork.

Central Ohio. Columbus and the surrounding Franklin County area sit on clay soils that expand with moisture and shrink during dry periods. The terrain is flat to gently rolling, making drainage planning important. Many mid-century neighborhoods have original concrete that is 50 to 70 years old and due for replacement.

Southern Ohio. Cincinnati, Dayton, and the Ohio River region have milder winters with fewer freeze-thaw cycles than northern Ohio. Soils are more variable, with some areas having better natural drainage. Concrete work in southern Ohio can extend later into fall and start earlier in spring.

Northeast Ohio. The Youngstown and Canton areas have industrial-era infrastructure with aging concrete throughout older neighborhoods. Heavy clay soils and harsh winters mean air entrainment and proper subbase preparation are non-negotiable.

Seasonal considerations for concrete in Ohio

Spring (April through June). The best time for concrete across most of Ohio. Temperatures warm into the ideal 50 to 80 degree range, and the risk of heavy rain is manageable. Spring is the busiest season for contractors, so book 6 to 8 weeks in advance.

Summer (July through August). Hot, humid weather with occasional thunderstorms. Concrete can be poured successfully, but contractors should schedule morning pours during heat waves. Ohio’s humidity helps prevent rapid moisture loss during curing.

Fall (September through October). An excellent window for concrete work. Cooler temperatures, lower demand, and stable weather conditions create ideal pouring conditions. Many experienced Ohio homeowners schedule their concrete projects for early fall.

Winter (November through March). Ohio winters are too cold for most outdoor concrete work without cold-weather precautions. Heated blankets, insulated forms, and accelerating admixtures add $2 to $5 per square foot. Most homeowners wait for spring unless the project is urgent.

Cities we serve

• Concrete contractors in Columbus

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

FAQ

Do concrete contractors need a license in Ohio?

Ohio does not require a statewide specialty license for residential concrete contractors. However, most cities and counties require building permits for driveway, sidewalk, and foundation work. Check with your local building department and verify that your contractor carries insurance.

What concrete mix works best in Ohio’s climate?

Air-entrained concrete with a minimum compressive strength of 4,000 PSI is recommended for exterior flatwork in Ohio. Air entrainment creates microscopic air bubbles that let water expand during freezing without damaging the concrete surface. For driveways exposed to road salt, many Ohio contractors recommend 4,500 PSI for added durability. Your contractor should specify the right mix for your project.

When is the best time to pour concrete in Ohio?

Spring (April through June) and early fall (September through October) offer the best conditions. Temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees produce ideal curing results. Avoid pouring during extreme heat or cold without appropriate measures from your contractor.

How does road salt affect my concrete driveway?

Road salt and deicing chemicals accelerate surface deterioration on concrete driveways and sidewalks. Salt dissolves into water, penetrates the concrete surface, and causes scaling and spalling during freeze-thaw cycles. Sealing your driveway every two to three years with a penetrating sealer creates a barrier against salt intrusion. Avoid applying deicing salts to new concrete during the first winter.

How much does it cost to replace a driveway in Ohio?

A standard two-car driveway replacement in Ohio (400 to 600 square feet) costs $3,200 to $10,800, including demolition and removal of the old surface. Stamped or decorative finishes cost more. See our driveway cost guide for detailed pricing by size and finish type.

Should I worry about foundation problems in Ohio?

Ohio’s clay soils are a common cause of foundation issues, particularly in central and northeastern Ohio. Signs include wall cracks, sticking doors, sloping floors, and gaps between walls and ceilings. If you notice these symptoms, schedule a professional evaluation. See our foundation repair guide for warning signs, repair methods, and cost details.