DIY or Pro Install? What to Know Before Tackling Your Own Coating Project

Jul 27

Applying a floor coating can enhance both the appearance and performance of your concrete surfaces. Whether it’s a garage, basement, patio, or commercial space, coatings protect your floor from wear, moisture, chemicals, and UV exposure. But when it’s time to coat your floor, a key decision arises: should you do it yourself or hire a professional?

This article breaks down the pros and cons of DIY and professional coating installations, helping you make a practical, informed choice.

Understanding Floor Coatings

Before choosing an installation method, it helps to understand the types of coatings commonly used:

Epoxy Coatings – Durable, chemical-resistant, popular for garages and high-traffic commercial floors (learn how to choose the right system for demanding environments).
Polyurea Coatings – Flexible, UV-stable, fast-curing, great for outdoor use.
Acrylic Sealers – Cost-effective, ideal for decorative finishes and low-traffic areas.
Polyaspartic Coatings – Quick cure time, excellent abrasion and chemical resistance.

Each type has different application requirements and surface preparation needs. For a deeper comparison of two of the most popular systems, read our guide on Epoxy vs. Polyaspartic coatings: What Every Property Owner Should Know Before Coating Concrete Floors.

DIY Coating Installation: What to Consider

DIY floor coating kits are widely available and appeal to homeowners looking to save on labor costs. But success depends on preparation, product quality, and application skill.

Pros of DIY Installation

Lower upfront cost – No labor fees.
Schedule flexibility – Work at your own pace.
Personal satisfaction – Sense of accomplishment from completing the project yourself.

Cons of DIY Installation

Surface prep challenges – Proper etching or grinding is critical for adhesion.
Weather sensitivity – Humidity, temperature, and moisture levels must be ideal. For more guidance on climate compatibility, learn which floor coatings perform best in extreme weather conditions.
Product limitations – Retail kits often contain lower-grade materials with thinner mil coatings.
Shorter lifespan – Improper application can lead to peeling, bubbling, or discoloration.

DIY can work well for small, low-traffic areas where aesthetics matter more than long-term durability.

Professional Coating Installation: What to Expect

Hiring a certified installer ensures the coating system is applied correctly, using professional-grade materials and tools. Contractors often offer warranties and maintenance advice, reducing long-term risk.

Pros of Professional Installation

Expert surface prep – Includes diamond grinding or shot blasting for proper adhesion.
Consistent quality – Trained crews follow proven systems for even coverage and durability.
Stronger materials – Commercial-grade polyurea or polyaspartic products.
Faster turnaround – Most projects are completed within 1–2 days.
Warranty coverage – Labor and product guarantees often included.

Cons of Professional Installation

Higher cost – Labor, equipment, and high-performance materials drive up the price.
Less control – You rely on scheduling availability and contractor timelines.

Professional installation is ideal for high-use spaces, large areas, outdoor surfaces, or when long-term performance is a priority.

Key Factors to Help You Decide

1. Project Size

DIY may be manageable for small rooms or patios.
Larger garages or commercial spaces require efficiency and experience.

2. Floor Condition

Cracks, pitting, or existing coatings complicate the prep and may require repair expertise.

3. Time and Equipment

DIY requires grinding tools, mixers, rollers, and respirators.
Professionals arrive with everything needed and work efficiently.

4. Expected Durability

DIY kits may last 2–5 years.
Professionally installed coatings can exceed 10–15 years with proper maintenance.

5. Budget

DIY: $1–$3 per square foot.
Professional: $4–$10+ per square foot depending on system type and prep required.

Maintenance Considerations

Regardless of installation method, proper maintenance affects coating lifespan:

Routine cleaning – Sweep or mop regularly to remove debris and prevent abrasion.
Avoid harsh chemicals – Use mild cleaners suited for your coating type.
Prompt spill cleanup – Especially for oil, salt, or battery acid.
Recoat if needed – High-traffic areas may require touch-ups after several years.

Explore simple maintenance tips for epoxy and polyaspartic floors to extend your coating's durability and appearance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a DIY or professional coating install comes down to your floor's condition, your budget, and how long you want the results to last. If you're confident in surface prep and product application, a DIY kit can be cost-effective for small areas. But if you're seeking long-term protection, durability, and professional finish quality, hiring a pro is usually worth the investment.

FAQs

1. Is it cheaper to apply a floor coating myself?

Yes, DIY kits generally cost less upfront since you're not paying for labor. However, if improperly applied, repairs or reapplication can increase long-term costs.

2. How long does a professionally applied coating last?

With proper surface preparation and high-grade materials, professional coatings can last 10–15 years or more, depending on traffic and maintenance.

3. Can I apply a coating over old paint or sealer?

It's not recommended. Existing coatings must typically be removed or thoroughly sanded to allow proper adhesion of the new coating.

4. What happens if I apply a coating in humid or cold conditions?

Improper temperature or moisture can cause bubbles, poor adhesion, or extended cure times. Always check manufacturer specs or consult a pro.

5. Are professional coatings really better than DIY kits?

Generally, yes. Professional systems use thicker, more durable materials and advanced prep techniques that result in longer-lasting, more resilient finishes.