Hiring an epoxy flooring contractor for your concrete floor coating? Asking the right questions can avoid a WHOLE lot of frustration and help you get the best floor for your money.
Here are the top questions to ask an epoxy flooring contractor to make an informed choice – and a reliable one.
An Important Note To Begin
It’s important to recognize early on here that while we (and our clients) often use the term “epoxy”, most professional floor coatings these days are actually polyaspartic concrete coatings. This superior alternative to true epoxy is more durable, ever-so-flexible, and resists UV yellowing, meaning it’s an all-around better product!
While DIY projects are often done with epoxy, polyaspartic is what you really want! In fact, that’s all we do. Learn more in our poly vs epoxy blog post.
How Long Have You Been in the Epoxy Flooring Business?
Experience matters, especially when it comes to installing epoxy floors. The longevity and quality of your epoxy floor largely depend on the contractor’s expertise!
A seasoned epoxy contractor not only brings technical know-how but also the ability to troubleshoot unexpected issues that can (and inevitably will!) arise during the project.
When evaluating a contractor, understanding their longevity and years of experience in the epoxy flooring business is crucial. Contractors with a longer track record deliver better outcomes hands-down, having honed their skills and processes over time. They’ve seen mistakes and learned how to fix them!
Viewing before and after images of past projects can provide a tangible sense of their capabilities and attention to detail.
Are You Insured or Licensed?
Checking a contractor’s insurance coverage is a non-negotiable.
Liability insurance protects your property from potential damage during the project, meaning financial coverage for any mishaps. Contractors should also have insurance covering their workers in case of on-site injuries, preventing you from being held liable for accidents.
In some states, a valid contractor’s license confirms they meet legal requirements and provides a basic level of trustworthiness.
While some people might balk, you might even request copies of the contractor’s insurance or bonding documents. This provides peace of mind and confirms you’re dealing with a legitimate professional. Proper licensing and insurance can lead to a smooth and worry-free project.
Can You Provide References from Past Clients?
One of the best ways to gauge a contractor’s reliability and quality of work is by speaking with their past clients. Asking for references allows you to hear firsthand about other customers’ experiences and satisfaction with the contractor’s services.
Besides direct references, check online company reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp. These can offer additional insights and help you make a more informed decision. Doing your homework helps avoid potential pitfalls and ensures you select a well-regarded and trustworthy contractor.
What is Your Process for Installing Epoxy Floors?
Knowing a contractor’s process for installing epoxy floors can set the right expectations towards a high-quality outcome. A detailed and well-executed installation can be the difference between a floor that lasts for years and one that quickly deteriorates. Every good epoxy flooring project starts with good surface preparation. This involves thoroughly and carefully cleaning and roughing up the concrete floor to ensure proper epoxy adhesion or polyaspartic. For previously coated concrete, existing coatings should be removed to allow the new epoxy to bond effectively. Thorough cleaning and drying are also essential, as moisture can compromise adhesion and longevity.
The application process typically involves multiple layers: a base coat and a final topcoat for durability and aesthetics. Each layer requires adequate curing time to ensure a strong bond and a flawless finish.
What Safety Measures Do You Take During the Project?
A reputable contractor should have a comprehensive safety plan to protect their workers, your property, and the environment.
First and foremost, the contractor should provide personal protective equipment (PPE) for their team, including gloves, safety glasses, or respirators when needed. This equipment helps to safeguard against the potentially harmful fumes and chemicals involved in epoxy flooring installation.
Additionally, proper ventilation is a must. The work area should be well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of toxic fumes from the epoxy coating. This not only protects the workers but also ensures a safer environment for you and your family.
The contractor should also be vigilant about potential hazards such as slippery surfaces or the use of heavy equipment. They should take proactive steps to mitigate these risks, ensuring a safer workspace. Moreover, having a plan in place for emergency situations, such as spills or accidents, is a sign of a responsible contractor.
Do You Offer Written Estimates?
Written estimates are helpful in managing budget expectations and transparency. A detailed estimate helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for, minimizing the risk of unexpected expenses or shortcomings.
Obtaining a written estimate also reflects the contractor’s professionalism and commitment to transparency. It shows they’re willing to provide a clear and detailed cost breakdown, helping build trust between you and the contractor.
In the long run, a written estimate helps avoid cost disputes and ensures you stay within your budget, often at half the cost. Get everything in writing before the project begins to prevent any surprises later.
Do You Use Industrial Grade Epoxy Products?
The type of epoxy products your contractor will use significantly impacts the durability and longevity of your floors.
Industrial-grade epoxy coatings – really, polyaspartic coatings these days – can withstand heavy foot traffic and the rigors of commercial environments so floors remain in top condition for years. These high-quality coatings are also more resistant to wear and tear, making them a better investment for residential and commercial spaces.
What Kind of Warranty Do You Provide?
It’s easy to overlook the value of a warranty when paying for a brand-new garage floor or basement floor. But a warranty is one of the best ways to gauge how a company stands behind their work and the products they use!
Comparing warranty details among contractors can also help you understand the scope and limitations of the coverage offered.
A good warranty can reduce long-term costs, as epoxy coating services can last many years with proper care. Knowing your investment is protected provides peace of mind and ensures you get the most out of your epoxy coating flooring.
Here at Everlast, we provice a 15-year warranty on every project.
Do You Offer Any Alternatives to Epoxy Coating?
Epoxy coatings are historically known and used for their strong protective qualities, shielding surfaces from chemical exposure, rust, and wear. They’re versatile enough for various applications.
BUT . . . newer polyaspartic coatings outperform epoxy in longevity, resistance to cracking, and color retention.
Polyaspartic coatings represent a more advanced option for safeguarding concrete surfaces. Flooring contractors are switching to polyaspartic for quick drying times, ability to withstand sunlight and UV rays without yellowing, and overall resilience. Polyaspartic coatings excel in scenarios requiring defense against heavy use, strong impacts, or prolonged sun exposure.
Epoxy isn’t a terrible option for concrete floor coating, but if you’re paying for a professional installation, your concrete coating contractor should really be using polyaspartic coatings. It might be a better alternative for your project.
Everlast Concrete Coatings: Epoxy Flooring Alternatives for the Finger Lakes, NY Region
If you’re in the Finger Lakes of New York State and are looking for an experienced, professional local company to coat your basement, patio, or garage floor, give Everlast Concrete Coatings a call. We use state-of-the-art polyaspartic coatings to create a beautiful and durable surfaces that will last for decades.
Remember, a well-chosen contractor will not only deliver a fantastic job but also provide peace of mind through the process. Take the time to ask these questions and select a contractor who meets your needs and expectations. Give us a call today for a free quote!
