Concrete floors in garages, basements, or patios endure a lot of wear and tear, making them prime candidates for protective coatings. While many DIY products claim to make it easy and cost-effective, the reality is that tackling concrete coatings on your own may not deliver the long-term results you’re hoping for. In fact, it could end up costing you more time and money down the road. Here are three important reasons why DIY concrete coating isn’t always the best option.

1.   Proper Floor Preparation is Critical

Preparing the concrete surface is one of the most important steps in ensuring the coating adheres properly and lasts for years. Cracks, pitting, and stains must be repaired, and the surface should be meticulously smoothed before any coating can be applied. Unfortunately, most DIY kits don’t come with the specialized tools or materials needed to do this effectively. A professional concrete coating company will ensure that the surface is thoroughly prepared, using advanced equipment to fix imperfections and smooth out the floor. Without these steps, even the best coating won’t adhere properly, leading to peeling or bubbling.

2.   DIY Products Lack Durability

Many homeowners believe that simply purchasing a can of waterproof paint or an epoxy kit from a home improvement store will be enough to protect their concrete floors. However, these products are often not durable enough to handle long-term exposure to heat, moisture, or vehicle traffic. Water vapor escaping from the concrete can cause the paint to peel, and heat from car tires can damage DIY epoxy coatings. Professional-grade coatings, such as polyaspartic or polyurethane systems, offer superior protection, are non-absorptive, and are specifically designed to resist wear and tear from harsh conditions. This level of durability ensures a long-lasting finish that DIY products simply can’t match.

3.   Experience Matters

Watching a YouTube tutorial might make the coating process seem easy, but applying concrete coatings correctly requires expertise and experience. Professional contractors have spent years mastering the necessary techniques, and they understand the nuances of each coating material. From ensuring the right thickness to preventing uneven application, there are many critical details that DIYers may miss. A professional installer has the training and knowledge to handle these challenges efficiently, providing a flawless finish that will stand the test of time.

The Professional Difference

While DIY concrete coatings might seem like a quick fix, the truth is that hiring a professional is the smartest way to ensure a durable and beautiful finish. From proper surface preparation to high-quality products and expert application, professionals offer the experience and tools necessary to get the job done right the first time. If you want a long-lasting, professional-grade concrete coating, investing in an experienced contractor will save you the hassle—and cost—of future repairs.

Call the Team at Garage Store

Consider hiring a reputable contractor, like the experts at Garage Store, to transform your concrete floor into a lasting investment. Garage Store is Chicagoland’s leader in the floor coating industry, with more garage, basement, exterior and commercial floors sold and installed than any of our competitors. 

Contact us today for a free estimate and see how we can provide a superior finish for your garage, basement, or outdoor space.