A floor coating enhances your garage’s aesthetic appeal and functionality, making your garage feel like an extension of your home’s interior. If you’ve decided to install a garage floor coating, you now have an important decision to make: Should you attempt a DIY floor coating, or should you hire a professional coating service?
Pros of DIY Garage Floor Coating
Satisfaction
It can be incredibly rewarding to complete a project yourself, especially if you’re pleased with the results. Installing your own garage floor coating requires commitment and a lot of elbow grease, but at the end of the day, you can be proud of what you’ve accomplished with your own two hands.
Cheaper Solution
Of course, you won’t have any labor costs if you choose to coat your garage floors yourself. Though you still need to buy the supplies and equipment, the upfront cost will be cheaper if you go the DIY route.
Pros of Professional Garage Floor Coating
Longer-Lasting Results
Professionally installed coatings will almost certainly last longer than DIY coatings. In part, this is because professionals use high-grade diamond grinders or shot blasters to create an optimal surface for the coating adhesion. Professionals also use superior products than what you might select off the shelf.
Faster Installation
Interruptions can be an annoyance in everyday life. Due to their experience and efficient machinery, professional services can coat garage floors in just one day. Hiring out this project saves you lots of time.
Thicker Coat
Another main difference between professional and DIY coatings is the thickness of the application. Professionals use machinery to achieve a higher concrete surface profile (CSP). The higher profile allows for a thicker application, which is more durable and protective than a thinner coat. Typically, professional floor coatings are 3 to 6 times thicker than DIY coatings.
Cons of DIY Garage Floor Coating
Higher Cost of Equipment and Rentals
In addition to the actual coating products, the list of things you’ll need is extensive: protective gear, squeegees, vacuums, mixing tools, rollers, 5-gallon buckets, concrete repair products, tape, rags, and more. If you plan to mechanically grind the concrete, you’ll also need to rent a diamond grinder. Altogether, the equipment expenses can significantly add to the cost of a DIY installation.
Suboptimal Surface Preparation
Concrete preparation is the main determinant of how long your garage floor coating lasts. Professionals use industrial diamond grinding and shot blasting machines to achieve optimal CSP, but most DIY efforts use the acid-etching technique in place of renting these heavy machines. Acid-etching uses harsh chemicals and is less effective.
Harder Work
Installing a garage floor coating is hard labor, especially if you’ve never done it before. It will require time and effort to adequately research the products and process, as well as the physical exertion of applying the coating. Professionals have a larger team and mechanical equipment to help disperse the labor.
Cons of Professional Garage Floor Coating
Higher Upfront Cost
Cost is the primary factor that stops people from hiring a professional service for their garages. The upfront cost of professional labor, high-quality products, commercial equipment, warranty, and expertise tends to be significantly more than simply buying the products and doing it yourself. However, over time you will likely spend less on repairs or recoating the floor because a professional coat lasts longer.
Factors to Consider When Deciding Between a DIY and Professional Garage Floor Coating
When making this decision, the main factors to consider are your budget versus how long you want your garage floor to last. Secondary factors might include your knowledge of coating types and products, the labor you’re willing to put in, and your comfort level with the application process. In general, professional coatings are a more trustworthy investment, especially when they’re accompanied by a warranty.
Make the Right Choice for Your Garage with Sparks Concrete Coatings
Sparks Concrete Coatings offers premium coating services in Utah and Idaho. Our team is committed to high-quality results and your satisfaction, so we offer a 20-year warranty on our work. With our state-of-the-art equipment and top-of-the-line products, we can transform your garage in just one day. Visit our website to read more about our garage coating process.
Secure Your Free Professional Coating Quote Today
Ready to take the next step towards an amazing garage? Contact us online or at (435) 990-4699 today! We’ll discuss your project’s specifications and provide you with a free quote.
