Epoxy Floor DIY vs Hiring a Flooring Expert
Are you considering upgrading your garage floor with an epoxy coating and flake system? It's a fantastic way to enhance both the durability and aesthetic appeal of your garage space. We love a home project as much as the next person. When it comes to adding an epoxy coating and flake system to your floor, however, one question often arises: should you tackle the project yourself or hire a professional installer? Let's explore the differences between the two options to help you make an informed decision.
Do It Yourself (DIY) Installation:
PROS
The biggest pro of a DIY installation of upgrading your garage floor with epoxy on your own is the cost. By taking on the installation on your own, you avoid the fees that are associated with hiring an expert installer. Other factors that make a DIY install appealing are being able to install on your own schedule and the satisfaction that comes from taking on a home project and seeing the finished results (as long as it matches your vision).
CONS
Let’s talk about the cons. Upgrading a garage concrete floor isn’t just for aesthetics, it’s about creating a durable floor that will last over time. A proper installation of an epoxy flake system requires specific tools and application experience to ensure your floor will last. Some tools that are needed:
A commercial grinder - to remove oil stains and/or existing coating, and make the floor porous to absorb the epoxy base coat
Application equipment - floor patching compound, rollers, paint trays, spiked shoes, shop vac and floor scraper
Safety equipment - respirator, safety goggles, ear protection, and gloves
HEPA vac - attaches to the grinder to extract dust as the floor is being ground
Experience is needed to ensure that all epoxy components are mixed and applied correctly. Incorrect application can lead to your floor bubbling, peeling or obtaining a less than desirable result.
Professional Installation:
PROS
When you hire a professional flooring expert, you are hiring someone with the knowledge, skills, and the experience to deliver a gorgeous floor. They have all of the equipment to ensure that your garage concrete floor is properly prepped and the epoxy flake system is installed correctly. Epoxy floor experts can transform your garage in 1—2 days, for a standard two car garage, which allows you to get back to your normal routine quickly. Hiring a reputable installer gives you peace of mind that any issues will be covered under warranty and addressed promptly.
CONS
The cons of hiring a professional flooring installer are very simple and straightforward:
Higher cost - your project will cost more, however you are paying for their expertise and the assurance of a professional result
Scheduling - your installation date will depend upon the installers availability
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the decision between DIY and professional installation depends on your priorities, budget, and level of expertise. If you're confident in your abilities and willing to invest the time and effort, DIY can be a rewarding option. However, if you value precision, efficiency, and guaranteed results, hiring a professional installer may be the preferable choice. If you decide to go the professional route, take the time to research installation companies to ensure you are working with a reputable company that will treat your garage like it’s theirs. Whichever path you choose, investing in an high quality garage floor is sure to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space for years to come.
We would love to hear about your project and answer any other questions you may have.