When it comes to upgrading your garage, basement, or outdoor concrete surfaces, getting a professional coating installed can make a huge difference. The right coating adds durability, style, and long-term value. But the truth is, who you hire matters just as much as the coating itself.
Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how poor choices in contractors lead to bubbling, peeling, or stained floors. The good news? These mistakes are totally avoidable. So before you hand over a deposit, read this guide and avoid the seven most common pitfalls homeowners make when choosing a concrete coating company.
1. Choosing the Cheapest Quote Without Asking What You’re Getting
We get it, everyone wants to save money. But when it comes to coatings, you really do get what you pay for.
A homeowner once told me they went with the “$999 garage special” from a local flyer. Within a year, the coating started peeling where they parked their truck. Turns out, the company skipped surface prep entirely and used a low-grade product.
Why it matters: Cheap quotes often leave out the most important parts of the process; proper prep and high-performance materials. That’s like buying tires with no tread because they were on sale.
What to ask instead:
- “What kind of prep do you include?”
- “What product system are you using?”
- “Is this quote all-inclusive?”
2. Not Asking About Surface Preparation
This is a big one. The #1 reason coatings fail is poor surface prep.
Concrete coatings don’t stick well to dirty or improperly profiled surfaces. Proper prep involves mechanical grinding, not just pressure washing. Grinding opens the pores of the concrete and gives the coating something to bond to. If a contractor shows up with a broom and a hose, you should start asking questions.
Pro tip: Ask if they use a diamond grinder or shot blaster to prep the concrete. If they don’t mention grinding or don’t know what that means that’s a red flag.
3. Thinking All Epoxies and Polyureas Are the Same
They’re not.
There’s a massive difference between a DIY epoxy kit from the hardware store and a professional-grade polyurea system. Some epoxies are water-based and thin. Others are industrial-strength and designed for heavy traffic. Polyaspartic coatings cure faster and handle temperature swings better.
What to ask:
- “Are the materials commercial-grade?”
- “Is it a multi-coat system?”
- “What’s the chemical resistance like?”
At Accu-Seal, we use a multi-layer polyurea system for projects because it offers better durability, UV stability, and faster return to service than standard epoxies. The right product depends on your space, but don’t settle for the cheapest material just because it has a name you recognize.
4. Ignoring the Warranty (Or Not Getting One at All)
You’d be surprised how many companies don’t offer any warranty or offer one that disappears once they cash your check.
A good warranty shows that a company stands behind its work. A bad one? It usually means they’re expecting failures down the road.
Look for:
- Written warranties, not just verbal promises.
- Clear coverage terms (delamination, peeling, etc.).
- Multi-year guarantees (at least 10 years is a good standard for residential work).
If something goes wrong, and it rarely does with proper installation, you want to know you’re covered.
5. Not Reading Reviews or Asking for References
Let’s be honest, any company can say they’re the best. But the real proof is in what customers say after the job is done.
Check reviews on Google, Facebook, or even local community forums. Look for things like:
- Communication throughout the job.
- Cleanliness and professionalism.
- Durability of the coating 6–12 months later.
Better yet, ask for recent photos or references from nearby jobs. If a company is proud of their work, they’ll be happy to show it off.
6. Forgetting to Verify Insurance and Licensing
It’s not the flashiest detail, but it’s an important one.
Hiring a company without insurance puts you at risk. If someone gets hurt on your property or damages your home, you could be on the hook. Always verify:
- General liability insurance.
- Workers’ compensation coverage.
- Any required business licenses in your state or city.
If a company avoids this topic or says “we’re covered” without proof, move on.
7. Rushing the Process Without Asking Questions
I’ve had plenty of clients tell me, “I wish I asked more questions before hiring my last contractor.” Don’t be afraid to ask for details.
Good companies will take the time to explain:
- Their process from prep to finish.
- How long the job will take (and when you can walk or drive on it).
- How to care for the coating afterward.
Rushed decisions often lead to regret. Take a little time now, and your floor will reward you for years.
Final Thoughts: Choose Smart, Not Fast
Your garage, basement, or patio deserves more than a rush job or a quick fix. Choosing the right concrete coating company is a small decision that has a big impact on your home’s appearance, value, and safety.
Here’s a quick recap of the mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t choose based on price alone.
- Always ask about prep methods.
- Know what products are being used.
- Get a real, written warranty.
- Read the reviews (not just the pretty website).
- Make sure the company is insured.
- Take your time and ask smart questions.
Looking for a Coating Company That Gets It Right the First Time?
At Accu-Seal, we believe in doing the job right, not cutting corners. We use premium-grade products, prep the surface with professional equipment, and back every job with a real warranty.
If you’re thinking about coating your concrete, let’s talk. We’ll answer all your questions, no pressure, just facts.
