FAQs
Answers to Your Most Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an epoxy floor cost?
Pricing is typically between $8-$13 per square foot for areas over 400 square feet. There are a number of variables that factor into the cost including the condition of the concrete and the coating style selected. Contact us for a free quote!
What do I need to do to get ready for the install?
- Clear the space and sweep up any large debris.
- Pull any installed toilets so they don’t leave a footprint on the new floor.
- If it is a temperature-controlled environment, make sure the area is at 70 degrees for several days prior to install.
- You will not have access to the space once we start installing, so plan accordingly.
How should I clean my coated floor?
For general cleaning, we recommend any cleaner that dries with a clear, streak free finish. PolyCare is an excellent choice. For heavy duty cleaning, we recommend EZ-Clean or Simoniz 969. These products are available for purchase through Ideal Coatings. Never use wax or wax strippers on your coated floor!
If your floor has grit or a sand broadcast, you will need to clean with a deck brush instead of a mop.
The cleaner you keep your floor, the longer the surface will last!
How long does it take to install a coated floor?
Install is often a week long process. A coated floor requires multiple steps. We do not skip steps or rush the process. We install floors that will last.
Do you only use epoxy?
No, we use several different coating chemistries including epoxy, urethane, polyaspartic, cement urethane and MMA/acrylic. The end use often determines which one we recommend. Epoxy is the most familiar term which is why we often use it to describe our work.
Who manufactures your product?
We only use high end, commercial grade manufacturers which include Dur-A-Flex, Koster, and Sika.
What are the benefits of a coated floor?
- It is seamless.
- It is easy to clean.
- Tough enough to drive on.
- Topcoat can be refreshed once it shows signs of wear.
Do your products smell?
Yes, similar to paint, our products have a smell. However, most of them are low to zero VOC and not toxic. If VOCs are a concern, please let us know, and we can select products accordingly.
What is your installation lead time?
During the summer, it is not uncommon to have an 8-12 week lead time. In winter months, it is generally 2-4 weeks.
Are your floors green/LEED?
Yes. Most of our floors are LEED compliant, have low VOC and use sustainable ingredients.
Why is my current coating failing?
- High moisture in the concrete
- Poor surface prep of the substrate
- Other contamination in the substrate
Contact us for a site visit to provide an initial evaluation.
How long will a coated floor last?
This depends on various factors.
- Type of coating
- Cleaning procedures
- Amount of traffic
- Exposure to chemicals
A highly used floor will likely need to have the topcoat refreshed in 5-7 years. With gentle use, we have seen topcoats last 15-20 years.
What is your warranty?
We offer a one year workmanship warranty for commercial spaces and a three year workmanship warranty for residential spaces. Product warranties are provided by the manufacturer and vary depending on the product.
Can you coat tile?
We can coat porcelain and ceramic tile, but the end result will depend on how sound and stable the tile is. If the tiles come loose down the road, we cannot warrant the effect that has on the coatings. We cannot coat VCT tile.
Can you coat unfinished wood?
Yes, we can coat unfinished wood. Epoxy bonds well to the wood. For flooring, we usually install a 1/4” lauan or plywood underlayment before coating.
Can you coat stained/finished wood?
No. Epoxy may not bond well to a stained wood.
Can you coat drywall?
Yes. For shower applications, we recommend installing moisture resistant drywall and mudding & sanding the walls like usual. There is no need to prime before we get started.
Does it matter if I have a sealer on my concrete?
No, it does not matter if you have a sealer. We will remove it along with the laitance (top layer of concrete) when we do the prep work. If you are installing new concrete and plan to get a coating, the sealer is an extra, unnecessary expense.
Should I put control joints in my new concrete if I’m planning to get a coating?
Yes. Adding control joints will help control future cracks. Control joints help keep cracking in straight lines which allows for easier repairs. Your concrete contractor will be able to advise you.
At what point in the building process should you install a coated flooring?
It is best to install after the walls are painted and other flooring (vinyl, tile, hardwood) has been installed. That way we can coat right up to the transition and seal it off. It is best to install before cabinets, baseboard, and door casing has been installed. The only time we install after cabinets and trim is if we are installing cove base as well. In this scenario, cabinets, door casing, and other flooring SHOULD ALL BE INSTALLED prior to our installation. Horizontal trim pieces that are not integrated with the floor would be installed after our work.
Will there be dust when you install?
There will be some dust, but it is minimal. We do our best to keep it contained. All of our equipment is hooked up to vacuums. Verticals & steps tend to create more dust because it is not possible to maintain a good seal.