Looking for a legitimate and trustworthy contractor can be a daunting task. If you’re in the market for a concrete driveway or porch, be wary of scammers pretending to do professional, quality work.

Recently, a scammer hit our area scamming residents offering resurfacing. Concrete resurfacing is a process where someone bonds their current concrete to new concrete, polymer or epoxy product to repair the look and durability.

The scammer told the victim the company could resurface his asphalt/blacktop driveway.

But that process can’t be done.

“These two products aren’t stable enough to hold a new surface on top, and therefore (asphalt) can only be sealed with a tar-based-sealer,” said Chuck Thokey of Re-Deck of Southern Ohio.

Thokey says the only surface that can be resurfaced is concrete.

“They’re using an inferior product and installing it,” Thokey said.

He said a concrete driveway needs to be sealed every two to five years when temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees.

Here are tips on what to look for in a concrete resurfacing contractor:

• Check with family and friends for recommendations on a contractor.

• Consider the contractor’s reputation, years of services and services provided.

• Get at least three bids in writing and be sure to compare each bid. Don’t settle for the lowest bid.

• Make sure you feel comfortable with the contractor you have chosen.

• Determine if permits are required and who’s responsible for getting them.

• Avoid those going door-to-door in your neighborhood. A reputable, trustworthy company has plenty of business through advertising and referrals.

• Verify contractors are in compliance with current licensing, bonding and insurance requirements.

• Get a written contract, detailing everything agreed upon.

• Don’t pay cash. Pay by check or credit card which is able to serve as proof of payment.

For more information, go to www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.

John North is president of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.