Is it time to consider new concrete floor coatings? Many property owners consider DIY solutions for covering a concrete floor surface.
In this post, Armor Coating Co. discusses the differences between professional and DIY solutions to help you make an informed decision.
DIY Concrete Floor Coatings
DIY concrete coatings consist of floor paints and epoxy floor coatings you can find in your local hardware store.
The Advantages of These Garage Floor Coatings
There are a few advantages to DIY floor coatings.
- Labor. The cost of these projects is lower because you are going to perform the labor yourself rather than hire someone to do it. Labor costs make up a large part of the expense, as you are paying for the skill to complete the project properly.
- Convenience. There is no need to vet contractors because you are the contractor. All you need to do is to set aside the time.
- Scheduling. You set the timeline for installation instead of waiting for the contractor to be free. Popular contractors book up quickly, especially during summer. Avoid this issue and book early.
- Products. Simple concrete coatings DIY kits offer a distinct improvement over floor paints because they are less prone to damage and do not require refinishing as often.
Cons of DIY Polyaspartic Coatings
The downsides of installing your own polyaspartic floor coatings include the following:
- Poor quality. A professional installation will last at least 5 to 15 years, depending on traffic. A DIY product doesn’t provide the same level of quality and lasts a fraction of the time. The product will also scratch more easily and yellow in the sun.
- Subpar results. The quality is lower, so getting professional results is challenging. This is the reason that professional installers will not use DIY kits. It’s difficult to get the results you require, even if you have years of experience with these products.
- Rough finishes. Getting a smooth finish is challenging. If you pour the mixture too quickly, bubbles form, and if you don’t work quickly enough, the mixture dries too fast. In the worst-case scenario, mixing the hardener incorrectly means the mixture may never dry.
- No warranty. With a professional installation, your warranty is usually up to 15 years. If you install the product yourself, you become fully responsible for repairs and other alterations.
- Timing. While you don’t have to wait for a contractor, it can be difficult to find the time to set aside for the project. The work will take at least a full day.
- Extra costs. There’s a higher chance of installation errors. Unfortunately, this also means that you may need to pay someone else to remove the original coating and apply a new one.
Professional Concrete Floor Coatings
Do you want the best possible results? It is well worth considering hiring a professional service. While the initial expense is higher upfront, you are going to achieve better results on a floor that lasts longer overall.
The Advantages of Hiring Professionals
Here are the advantages of employing a professional team:
- Durable. Professionals use the best quality supplies to ensure a durable result. The coating should last 5 years in a commercial setting and 15 years in a residential one.
- Value. The cost per use is low compared to DIY options because the product lasts for such a long time.
- Versatility. You have many design options not available in the DIY kit. The more skilled the contractor, the wider your range of options is. You may select solid colors, stone effects, vinyl flakes, and even custom logos and designs.
- Training. The best contractors undergo manufacturer training to ensure that they use best practices when installing your garage floor coatings.
- Warranty. Do you want a fully-backed warranty? Our warranty is 5 years in a commercial setting and 15 years for residential projects. If the coating cracks or peels within this time, we will repair it.
- Proper evaluation. Prior to the project, was there a moisture issue in the slab? No concrete floor coatings will adhere properly. Professionals use state-of-the-art equipment to detect any issues that might interfere with the finish.
- Budget. Many firms partner with finance companies to make the installation more affordable.
- Tools. Professionals have access to industrial-grade products so they can ensure you get the results that you deserve.
Cons of Hiring Professionals
While we recommend hiring professionals, we admit that there may be some negatives in doing so. These include the following:
- Costs. It costs more upfront than DIY options. You are paying more for the product and for someone to install it. This increases the upfront cost.
- Reliability. The results depend on the contractor’s skill, so it takes longer to find someone on whom you can rely. There are some contractors who have neither the experience nor the skill to complete the work properly.
- Time. It takes longer because the professional will insist on an on-site evaluation and will order fresh supplies. With the DIY option, you can pick up the product and start immediately.
- Scheduling. You might have to wait a little while for popular contractors because they book up quickly. Although different teams can handle many projects on the go.
Choose the Professionals Today!
Is it time to upgrade your drab or broken concrete flooring with brand-new concrete floor coatings? Contact Armor Coating Co. for your free estimate by calling (715) 934-9037 today!