1.What’s the difference between a professionally installed coating and the DIY kit at the home improvement store? The biggest difference between a professional coating and a do-it-yourself kit from the home improvement store is that the professional coating will provide longer lasting protection. Professional coatings are specifically designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, harsh chemicals, and other factors that cause wear and tear on floors. They are also applied in layers with specialized tools to ensure even coverage over large areas. Home improvement kits typically only contain one or two coats of product with minimal protective qualities compared to professionally installed coatings

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2.Are there different types of epoxies? Yes, there are different types of epoxy floor coatings available. The type that you choose will depend on the needs of your project and/or facility. Epoxy resin is most commonly used for industrial and commercial applications due to its high durability and resistance to water, chemical spills, abrasions, impact wear, heat, cold and UV radiation. There are also specialty epoxies designed for specific applications such as decorative finishes or antibacterial surfaces. Additionally, there are self-leveling epoxies that can be used to create a seamless flooring surface without seams or gaps. Professional coating contractors can help you choose an appropriate type for your application requirements.

3.How do you prep the floor? Preparing the floor is an important step in concrete floor polishing. The surface needs to be completely clean, free of any dirt and grease, so it’s important to sweep and vacuum the area thoroughly. Once this is done, a diamond grinding machine should be used to grind down any irregularities or cracks on the surface. After that, a densifier can be applied to fill small pores and strengthen the concrete. Finally, a commercial-grade diamond impregnated pad should be used to polish the floor until it shines like glass!

4. Does grinding make a lot of dust? No, modern concrete grinding machines have dust containment systems that ensure an incredibly low amount of dust is released into the surrounding environment. Additionally, many contractors will use a vacuum system during the grinding process to keep the work area as clean as possible. This combination of methods reduces dust levels to well below OSHA safety standards for indoor air quality.

5. How many layers do you put down? It depends on the condition of the existing concrete and the desired outcome. As a general rule, I will typically put down 4 layers of products, including a grinding layer, an etching layer, a densifying layer and then a polishing or sealing layer. This number may vary depending on the job specifics, but this is usually standard for most professional concrete floor polishing jobs.

6. How long does the process take? The concrete floor polishing process typically takes between 2-4 days to complete, depending on the size and condition of the floor. Additionally, a curing time is required at the conclusion of the job to ensure an optimal finish. After this curing time has passed, you can expect your polished concrete floors to be ready for use and enjoyment.

7. When can I use my garage again? Once the curing time has passed and your polished concrete floor is ready for use, you can begin using your garage again. However, to ensure an optimal finish and lasting beauty of the floor it is important to follow any specific instructions provided by your contractor regarding care and maintenance of the finished product.

8. How long will the coating last? It depends on the type of floor coating that you choose, but generally the coatings we use have a durability of up to 10 years when properly maintained. We can provide more specific details about expected longevity depending on the type of coating you select.

9. Can a new top coat be applied? Yes, a new top coat can be applied on an already-polished concrete floor. However, it is important to ensure that the concrete surface has been properly prepped and sealed before applying a new layer of sealant. The application of a new top coat should also be done in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions for maximum effectiveness.

10. How much does a garage floor coating cost? 

The cost of a garage floor coating can vary depending on the size of your garage, the quality of materials used, and any additional services that may be needed. Generally speaking, you can expect anywhere from $2 to $5 per square foot for a basic coating. However, more substantial coatings can cost up to $20 or more per square foot. Ultimately, it’s best to consult with an experienced contractor for an estimate tailored to your needs.