A Bold Leap During a Global Shutdown

When COVID-19 hit and the world shut down, many people took up hobbies like baking sourdough or learning to knit. But Ed Rivas chose a path far less conventional: he launched a concrete and epoxy flooring business. While most were adjusting to life indoors, Ed was laying the groundwork for what would become Concrete & Epoxy by CSI, now one of North Dallas’s most trusted names in quality concrete work.

Ed’s background wasn’t in construction. He had built a solid career in the financial industry, but his early hands-on experience with concrete projects—such as installing running tracks at schools—left a lasting impression. During the pandemic, working from home gave him space to reflect. With his daily work wrapped up efficiently, the extra time fueled a desire for something more meaningful and hands-on. That curiosity turned into action.

He began researching business opportunities and kept circling back to those early days of working with concrete. On a whim, he tested the market with some epoxy flooring projects over a weekend. It didn’t take long to see that there was a serious demand for reliable, high-quality concrete and flooring services throughout the region.

From Side Hustle to Established Brand

What started as a weekend side gig quickly turned into a full-fledged business. Ed noticed a recurring problem: homes and businesses throughout North Dallas were plagued with cracked driveways, uneven walkways, and deteriorating patios. These weren’t just unsightly—they were real safety hazards.

From the beginning, Ed made a commitment to doing things differently. He refused to cut corners and insisted on quality in every aspect of the business. “No shortcuts” became a central tenet of Concrete & Epoxy by CSI. His company would stand out by getting the job done right the first time, every time.

With quality as the foundation, Ed shifted his focus to building awareness. He dove into marketing, regularly updating the company’s Google Business profile, sharing before-and-after projects on social media, and encouraging satisfied customers to leave reviews. To reach those less active online, he advertised in local magazines, including those focused on community storytelling and small business promotion.

Networking was another vital pillar in growing the company. Ed actively joined referral-based business groups and created strong relationships with other tradespeople—plumbers, roofers, electricians—offering mutual referrals and support. “Give to receive” wasn’t just a strategy for him; it reflected the collaborative, community-first mindset that continues to shape his business model.

More Than Just Concrete

While concrete may seem mundane to some, Ed sees it as a blank canvas with endless potential. Whether it’s decorative patios, sleek epoxy garage floors, or custom pathways, he’s passionate about helping clients reimagine their spaces. It’s about aesthetic transformation just as much as it’s about function and durability.

He also brings an environmentally conscious mindset to the business. Sustainability is a growing focus at Concrete & Epoxy by CSI, with ongoing efforts to minimize waste and use better materials. To Ed, every project is more than just another job—it’s a chance to uplift a home or neighborhood.

Balancing work with personal life remains a priority, even amidst the demands of entrepreneurship. Ed enjoys spending time with his family, especially at the grill. Though his teenage sons are increasingly wrapped up in their own social circles, Sundays remain sacred family time. When he's not with family or on a job site, Ed finds joy in cycling—a sport he once raced competitively—and his love for motorcycles offers a burst of adventure when he needs it most.

For Ed Rivas, building Concrete & Epoxy by CSI has been one of life’s most rewarding challenges. It's a testament to how vision, hard work, and integrity can turn a small idea into a thriving, impactful business.

The company’s success is grounded in more than just concrete—it’s built on strong relationships, honest work, and a deep commitment to serving the local community. As Ed puts it, when you pour a strong foundation—in both your projects and your principles—you create something that truly lasts.

And that's exactly what Concrete & Epoxy by CSI is doing, one pour at a time.

To learn more about Concrete & Epoxy by CSI visit: 
https://www.CSIUS.net 
Concrete & Epoxy by CSI 
945-400-4362