The pool was delivered on time from the factory. The day prior to it's arrival Mr. Starr showed up to mark the area and dig the hole for the new pool. He used a full size backhoe for this procedure. That included stripping off the existing sod. The weight of the machine left deep tire ruts in the remaining sod. As well, moving back and forth over an existing sidewalk broke up much of the sidewalk. The one slab not broken was tipped enough to jam a gate going through a backyard fence. While digging out area for the pool, the sod was piled against palm trees and the neighbor's fence. The bulk of the dirt was piled next to a canal seawall and fence, with a lot of the dirt actually going through the fence. There was room to put this in a different area that would not have infringed upon the fences. The pool was placed in the hole alright. It was leveled quite well. Then the forming was done for the concrete deck. Because the yard slopes, the backside had to be deeper. The forms were originally placed to end about 6 inches above the existing grade level, with dirt shoveled in to make up the difference. I complained and said the concrete forms had to go all the way down at least to the existing grade. They then dug out a little more of the dirt and added another 6 inches of forms to get it lower. However, their bracing was not at all adequate. The deck required 18 cubic yards of concrete. They attempted to manage the pour with just two people on a 90 degree day. The weight of the concrete pushed out one corner of the forms to the point where the deck is 8 inches out of square. As well, by the time they tried to do the surface finishing, the concrete was way to hard to properly float. The result was a mess of highs and lows, with almost nothing level. The next five weeks were spend grinding and filling the surface a little area at a time. I complained on an almost daily basis about the fact that it needed to be surface ground to level and fix. Rather than do that, Mr. Starr used a hand grinder to try to grind down some of the highs and used a concrete patching formula to fill in some of the lows. The concrete is supposed to slope away from the edge of the pool, but there are numerous areas where the water from a rain actually drains into the pool washing in any dirt that might be on the deck. I made sure to comment on the number of humps and hollows, but was told by Mr. Starr that "it looked good to him". The cantilever edge on the pool was patched repeatedly to try to get it to look decent. There are areas where it sags very noticeably. It edge looks like a old farmhouse window thats been repeatedly scraped and painted. When the lanai screen enclosure was erected, there are still so many low areas and unevenness that the subcontractor had to send a crew to return. They had to loosen the metal bottom plates and put rolled up screening into the hollows to keep the insects out. They absolutely couldn't believe how poorly the concrete had been finished/left. Once the enclosure had been erected, starr-lite returned to paint the deck (for about the fourth or fifth time). We now have deck paint on many areas of the bronze aluminum base plate for the enclosure. When it came time to backfill the dirt, the full size backhoe was again used. That did more damage to the remainder of the yard than it was worth. We had to pay for a different contractor to come in with a bobcat to properly grade the backfill. Using full size backhoe in restricted area made no sense. The construction dust, dirt, etc. was left in the bottom of the pool for this entire time. That left a very scaly feeling on the surface of the pool. It took multiple applications of a chemical product to soften it up enough whereby we could rub it off ourselves. The pool was simply left in that condition. It was so bad initially, that I called the regional sales manager for Blue Hawaiian pools to complain and ask about this. A day later, Mr. Starr showed up again to reapply chemicals. Before we started this process, we contacted Blue Hawaiian pools to ask about this contractor. They gave him their full recommendation. If you want something to hold water, Starr-lite pools is for you. If you want your dream oasis, look somewhere else. Since completion of our pool, we have contacted multiple contractors to determine how to repair the deck. Prices range from almost $5,000 to $8,000. That is an expense that no one should have to endure just to make things right! "},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/fl/sebring/starr-lite-pools-reviews-8432775.htm"},"position":6},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@type":"LocalBusiness","name":"SHEPPARD ROOFING SERVICE, INC.","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressRegion":"FL","addressCountry":"US"},"review":{"@type":"Review","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Daniel C."},"reviewBody":"They were fast, neat and very professional. We are very happy with the price and very satisfied with the work that was done. The cleanup was good and they were finished with the job on time. The workers were courteous and friendly. When you spend this kind of money you want to feel you can trust the people you give it to. Well, I do! It's a good feeling to watch the work and know your job was completed the way it should have been completed. "},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/fl/winter-haven/sheppard-roofing-service%2C-inc-reviews-4388590.htm"},"position":7},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@type":"LocalBusiness","name":"RK Marble Tile Inc.","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressRegion":"FL","addressCountry":"US"},"review":{"@type":"Review","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Kim T."},"reviewBody":"This contractor has done a few jobs for me now on my home and a couple rental properties. They are professional from start to finish and they do quality work at a competitive price. I would highly recommend this company for any tile project."},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/fl/riverview/rk-marble-tile-inc-reviews-7923955.htm"},"position":8},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@type":"LocalBusiness","name":"Hamilton Fence","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressRegion":"FL","addressCountry":"US"},"review":{"@type":"Review","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Patricia H."},"reviewBody":"Mark had given me an estimate for this job when he was on site for another job several months before. They came out as soon as I had the fence line cleared of trees and large brush and dug the holes and set the fences posts, having to stopped to cut out several large tree roots. The came back once the concrete was hardened and put up the cross runners (2 x 4s) with screws, the installed the dog earred slats vertically with a nail gun. They even stopped to trim the bottom of the boards to fit around the old tree stumps in the way. Fantastic job...as always! "},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/tn/chattanooga/hamilton-fence-reviews-485199.htm"},"position":9},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@type":"LocalBusiness","name":"Sea Quest Builders","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressRegion":"FL","addressCountry":"US"},"review":{"@type":"Review","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"CORNELIUS O."},"reviewBody":"Calling one person,actually Carl & Mike.was easier than trying to get estimates from 3 or 4 different contractors.Carl & Mike gave the quote,we're on time every day and finished the job ahead of schedule.We are very satisfied with the work and workmanship.The condo unit next hired them to do the same type of work in their unit."},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/fl/seminole/sea-quest-builders-reviews-2017416.htm"},"position":10}]}
Concrete Finishing reviews from real Angi homeowners in Lake Wales, FL
Done very well. Good price. And was able to get it done on our time frame. This is the second time I have had him do concrete work done . Our other home he did a slab for our carport. Will use them again. All the workers were very nice.
Vickie A.
5.0
11/2024
Jason did an excellent job. he is very meticulous about his work his estimate was good and he finished the job in a timely manner I would recommend him highly
It included the materials, and their installation of it. They installed it with concrete post at the corners and stuff, and they did a great job. Its not unattractive looking. It looks like a white picket fence on the outside of it. Excellent. Price is excellent. Quality is also excellent....
Scott R.
1.0
12/2015
Starr-lite pools was a huge disappointment. The total crew consists of the owner and two elderly helpers. They arrived at our home daily around 11:00 am and departed between 3:30 and 4:30, with numerous smoke breaks throughout their 5 hour work day. The pool was delivered on time from the...
Daniel C.
5.0
05/2015
They were fast, neat and very professional. We are very happy with the price and very satisfied with the work that was done. The cleanup was good and they were finished with the job on time. The workers were courteous and friendly. When you spend this kind of money you want to feel you...
Kim T.
5.0
03/2015
This contractor has done a few jobs for me now on my home and a couple rental properties. They are professional from start to finish and they do quality work at a competitive price. I would highly recommend this company for any tile project.
Patricia H.
5.0
12/2012
Mark had given me an estimate for this job when he was on site for another job several months before. They came out as soon as I had the fence line cleared of trees and large brush and dug the holes and set the fences posts, having to stopped to cut out several large tree roots. The came...
LRE Foundation Repair has been Florida’s trusted foundation and concrete repair expert since 1989, with over 26,000 projects completed. We repair settling foundations, lift and level concrete, and repair and encapsulate crawl spaces. We also handle deep foundation solutions and soil stabilization. With over 35 years of experience, we offer free inspections, lifetime transferable warranties, and a satisfaction guarantee—so you can feel confident your home or property is protected.
"The company charged $4000 for a pop-up drainage system to prevent flooding in my stand-alone backyard office. When heavy rain came, it was apparent that the system in place was not working, and despite multiple emails, no one responded for six months. When they did, they sent workers out to do the same job that was already done. They also told me that the system in place would not work and should never have been placed and in the end, recommended I hire an irrigation company, stating that they are not an irrigation company and, when asked about a partial refund since the system placed did not work, they refused. In short, I cannot recommend this company. Poor work, poor customer service."
DONALD K on July 2024
LRE Foundation Repair has been Florida’s trusted foundation and concrete repair expert since 1989, with over 26,000 projects completed. We repair settling foundations, lift and level concrete, and repair and encapsulate crawl spaces. We also handle deep foundation solutions and soil stabilization. With over 35 years of experience, we offer free inspections, lifetime transferable warranties, and a satisfaction guarantee—so you can feel confident your home or property is protected.
"The company charged $4000 for a pop-up drainage system to prevent flooding in my stand-alone backyard office. When heavy rain came, it was apparent that the system in place was not working, and despite multiple emails, no one responded for six months. When they did, they sent workers out to do the same job that was already done. They also told me that the system in place would not work and should never have been placed and in the end, recommended I hire an irrigation company, stating that they are not an irrigation company and, when asked about a partial refund since the system placed did not work, they refused. In short, I cannot recommend this company. Poor work, poor customer service."
We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Check out our services offered and call or click to schedule an estimate today!
We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Check out our services offered and call or click to schedule an estimate today!
Top Notch Grading specializes in, Grading, sod, driveways concrete or asphalt. Drainage issues, ponds, Ditches, clearing land, road work, curb, house pads, shop pads, sweeping and cleaning parking lots or driveways, sidewalks.
"Top Notch Grading did an outstanding job from start to finish. On time, thorough and neat. I love this company and recommend them whenever I can. They have performed quality work time and time again."
Holly H on January 2025
Top Notch Grading specializes in, Grading, sod, driveways concrete or asphalt. Drainage issues, ponds, Ditches, clearing land, road work, curb, house pads, shop pads, sweeping and cleaning parking lots or driveways, sidewalks.
"Top Notch Grading did an outstanding job from start to finish. On time, thorough and neat. I love this company and recommend them whenever I can. They have performed quality work time and time again."
Ameripave Blacktopping LLC provides asphalt paving, New installs, resurfacing, sealcoating and other paving services. We offer free estimates.
"Ameripave was a pleasure. They responded quickly, and ended up doing an excellent job, exceeding my expectations. They're a family affair, and everyone does everything, from driving the truck, to operating the roller, to spreading the asphalt. The job was also done quickly and they did a great job of cleaning up after. Go forward care instructions were provided. My best recommendation is that I plan to go with Ameripave when it's time to seal the surface at the one year mark."
Allan H on September 2025
Ameripave Blacktopping LLC provides asphalt paving, New installs, resurfacing, sealcoating and other paving services. We offer free estimates.
"Ameripave was a pleasure. They responded quickly, and ended up doing an excellent job, exceeding my expectations. They're a family affair, and everyone does everything, from driving the truck, to operating the roller, to spreading the asphalt. The job was also done quickly and they did a great job of cleaning up after. Go forward care instructions were provided. My best recommendation is that I plan to go with Ameripave when it's time to seal the surface at the one year mark."
Fencing business locally owned and operated we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. Call or message us to schedule an estimate today!
"Excellent communication and responsiveness. Excellent quality of work. Definitely recommend!"
Christine R on February 2025
Fencing business locally owned and operated we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. Call or message us to schedule an estimate today!
"Excellent communication and responsiveness. Excellent quality of work. Definitely recommend!"
With over 35 years of experience in construction, J M Handymen offers reliable handyman and construction services, specializing in home repairs, renovations, and custom builds. Our experienced team delivers high-quality craftsmanship for a wide range of projects, from minor fixes to major construction work, ensuring timely, professional, and affordable solutions for all your property needs.
"Everything went well he's a great worker and know what he is doing I will definitely recommend him to everybody he is very good"
Hyacinth H on January 2025
With over 35 years of experience in construction, J M Handymen offers reliable handyman and construction services, specializing in home repairs, renovations, and custom builds. Our experienced team delivers high-quality craftsmanship for a wide range of projects, from minor fixes to major construction work, ensuring timely, professional, and affordable solutions for all your property needs.
"Everything went well he's a great worker and know what he is doing I will definitely recommend him to everybody he is very good"
FAQs for concrete finishing projects in Lake Wales, FL
Concrete repair costs range anywhere from about $0.10 to $0.15 per linear foot to fill minor cracks, to about $6 to $14 per square foot to replace damaged concrete slabs. Repair costs vary widely depending on the size and type of work needed. For example, replacing 100 square feet of driveway will cost between $600 to $1,400, on average.
The average cost of stamped concrete is around $12 per square foot, but you might pay anywhere from $8 to $28 per square foot. The average 12-foot by 12-foot patio costs $1,730 on average. Your exact pricing will depend on the patio’s square footage, the condition of the area where you want to pour the concrete, the desired stamp pattern, concrete coloring, concrete grade, and local labor prices. Don’t forget to budget for extra costs like land preparation and additional concrete fortifications if necessary.
Depending on the cost to repair your driveway, it may be more cost effective to tear out and replace it with a new concrete driveway. The cost to repave a driveway ranges between $1,400 and $12,100, including removal of the old concrete. Contact a reputable concrete contractor for advice and an estimate. They may have a good reason for going with repairs or replacement after assessing your driveway. You may also have the option to resurface your driveway or pave over it without taking out the existing one.
It’s possible to create stamped concrete yourself, but we don’t recommend it and it’s often not cost-effective. It’s easy to mess up the pattern of a stamped concrete patio or walkway, leaving you with an unsightly home exterior rather than the elegant solution you wanted. Any mistakes made during the ground leveling and concrete pouring process will also increase the risk of cracks forming on your concrete. Additionally, buying enough stamps to get the pattern in before your concrete cures can cost as much as hiring a professional to do the work for you.
Concrete contractors typically charge anywhere from $6 to $14 per square foot. Cost factors include job size, site prep, base material, accessibility, your location, concrete finish, and concrete thickness. Removal of existing concrete, asphalt, deck, pavers, and grass will cost anywhere from $1 to $6 per square foot. Homeowners can often save money by removing and disposing of existing pavers, decks, and grass. Breaking up and hauling away concrete and asphalt is difficult and time-consuming without the proper equipment and may be worth having the pros do that work.
The Lake Wales, FL homeowners’ guide to concrete finishing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Dealing with cracked or crumbling concrete on your property? Learn who to call to repair concrete in this guide and the benefits of using a professional.
Concrete resurfacing is a much more affordable option than replacing a slab. Learn how long concrete resurfacing lasts and if it’s a better option for you.