Epoxy/Polyaspartic Floor: DIY vs Hiring a Flooring Expert in central florida
Are you considering upgrading your Central Florida garage floor with an epoxy/polyaspartic flake and coating system? It's a fantastic way to enhance both the durability and aesthetic appeal of your Central Florida garage space. We love a home project as much as the next person. However, when it comes to adding a high-quality epoxy flake system to your concrete garage floor, one question often arises: should you tackle the project yourself (DIY epoxy floor) or hire a professional installer? Let's explore the differences to help you make an informed decision for your Florida home improvement project.
Do It Yourself (DIY) Installation in Florida:
PROS
The biggest pro of a DIY installation of epoxy flooring is the upfront cost savings. By taking on the installation yourself, you avoid the fees associated with hiring an expert installer. Other factors that make a DIY install appealing are being able to work on your own schedule and the satisfaction that comes from 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 concrete coating that will last. A proper installation of an epoxy flake system requires specific tools and application experience to ensure your floor will last with regular usage. Some essential tools and requirements:
A commercial grinder: To remove contaminants and open the pores in the concrete floor for proper absorption of the epoxy base coat.
Specialized equipment: Floor patching compound, rollers, paint trays, spiked shoes, shop vac, and floor scraper.
Safety equipment: Respirator, safety goggles, ear protection, and gloves (essential for proper application).
HEPA vac: Attaches to the grinder to safely extract harmful dust as the floor is being prepped.
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 and ultimately re-work.
Professional Epoxy/polyaspartic floor Installation:
PROS
When you hire a Central Florida professional garage 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. You will have peace of mind if you hire a reputable installer knowing that any issues will be covered under warranty and addressed promptly.
CONS
The cons of hiring a professional epoxy flooring installer are very simple and straightforward:
Higher cost: Your project will cost more upfront; however, you are paying for their expertise, specialized moisture-blocking materials, and the assurance of a professional, long-lasting result.
Scheduling: Your installation date will depend upon the installer's availability.
Conclusion: Investing in Quality Garage Floor Coating
Ultimately, the decision between epoxy 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 epoxy/polyaspartic flooring 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 Central Florida garage project and answer any other questions you may have. Contact Garage Rehab today for a free, no-obligation quote!