Epoxy flooring is a coating or paint system which is often developed using two different materials. When these materials are combined, it results in a fast hardening substance that forms a durable high-gloss or semi-glossy floor surface. However, epoxy tends to fade or become yellowish when being directly exposed to sunlight. Epoxy is able to be used on cement, wood, metal or concrete surfaces, and may be used as an undercoat under other types of flooring, but commonly used with residential or commercial concrete garage flooring. Prior to drying, paint flakes can be sprinkled on epoxy to create granite simulated textures, or patterns. Alternatively, colored sand can be used to create a less slippery surface.
Our experts are available to answer any questions for your particular needs and which systems may be best able to meet them. We have designed flooring systems for a variety of industries.
The price of epoxy varies upon:
Job site
Condition
Square Footage
(Video) So you want an epoxy floor and have no idea the cost or process?Timing
Epoxy flooring costs ranged from $1,407 to $2,942 for the US in 2021 according toHomeAdvisor. Professional epoxy flooring installation costs anywhere from $3 to $12 per square foot including materials and labor. Equipment and material alone will cost about $2 to $5 per square foot.
Three epoxy flooring categories:
100% solid epoxy coating is the most expensive type, commonly used in commercial or professional flooring with water-based and solvent-based epoxies that both contain roughly 40% to 60% epoxy. Water-Based epoxy paint will be easier to apply and thinner. However, it will not have the durability compared to solvent-based epoxy coating as it is thicker and covers imperfections better. Although it requires respirators to be worn during applications, commonly solvent-based epoxy is more expensive than water-based systems. Additionally, thicker coatings can require additional gallons of epoxy compared to thinner paint for the same square footage.
Commercial Epoxy Flooring Cost
The price depends largely on the type of epoxy applied, how many coats are used, and the method of application (squeegee, roller, trowel, or sprayer).
Industrial Epoxy Flooring Cost
The price depends largely on the type of epoxy applied, how many coats are used, and the method of application (squeegee, roller, trowel, or sprayer).
DIY Epoxy Flooring Cost
A DIY epoxy flooring kit can range from $50 to $600 and up, depending on the square footage to cover, epoxy type, the number of coats needed, and how many tools and/or materials are included. Additional items could be required, including a squeegee or roller, solvent-resistant brush, rubber gloves, goggles, plastic pail or others that can be an additional $200. Furthermore, the application process often takes two people. When using a brush and roller to apply an epoxy paint kit, it is estimated that a moderate project requires nine hours of labor, spread over three days, with average costs being $120 to $160 for single car garage and $240 to $360 for double car garage.
What’s Included:
Moisture should always be checked for by the installer of concrete flooring prior to installation because the epoxy cannot be applied if there is moisture.
Application of epoxy flooring may need up to seven coats. Typical applications can include the base coat, 1-2 coats of epoxy, broadcast coating of flakes and/or sand for decorative purposes, or to reduce the slippery surface), finished with a top coat. The first step is patching, filling, or leveling areas which require repairs. The concrete is then cleaned and prepared to properly bond withepoxy. There are DIY approaches which includes a mild acid solution for etching concrete surfaces, but grinders or shot blasters with small steel balls are used by professionals for removing prior coatings while opening concrete surfaces.
The next step is combining the epoxy coating or paint together, spreading it according to manufacturer directions. Generally, epoxy applications must be done quickly, while the installers commonly have shoe cleats that allow them to walk on the wet epoxy flooring. Anti-slip substances or colored flakes should be added prior to the epoxy being fully dry, roughly 15 to 30 minutes. These substances, such as sand can be sprinkled using a broadcasting process. A demonstration video is provided by the manufacturer, Palma Inc. for application procedures of applying epoxy with a trowel. Meanwhile, a demonstration video is provided by ThisOldHouse.com showing the application process using a brush and squeegee. Additionally, there is a demonstration video by a car enthusiast which explains the application process using a roller.
Shopping for Epoxy Flooring Installers
There are many differenttypes of epoxy flooringto choose from. You should obtain recommendations of installers from friends, family, and staff at your local home improvement stores to locate the best professional for your needs.
You should ask for references from prior customers, then call and ask questions. Ensure the company has the proper licenses, insurance and they are bonded. Check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints.
Paint stores often carry do-it-yourself epoxy floor kits, including Ace Hardware, Home Depot, Lowes and Sears, or online retailers such as Amazon.
FAQs
How much should I expect to pay for epoxy flooring? ›
Epoxy is also available in metallic hues and customizable colors. Equipment and materials cost between $2 and $5 per square foot, and labor averages between $1 and $7 per square foot. Epoxy flooring averages between $3 and $12 per square foot, including installation fees.
Is an epoxy floor worth it? ›Garage floor epoxy projects can cost anywhere between $1,500 to $3,000 on average, which may seem like a dealbreaker to some consumers. However, epoxy floors are a long-term investment that will last for years, making them well worth the time and investment.
How do you quote an epoxy floor? ›The cost to epoxy a floor will run between $2 and $5 per square foot in material to seal your surface with a high-performance epoxy or urethane. If you decide to paint the floor first, estimate an extra $1.45 to $3 per square foot. The range in epoxy floor prices comes down to the type of epoxy used.
How many square feet will a 5 gallon bucket of epoxy cover? ›| Gallons | Square Feet |
|---|---|
| 4 | 48 |
| 5 | 60 |
| 6 | 72 |
| 7 | 84 |
Epoxy Garage Floors: The Most Cost Effective Way to Increase Your Homes Value. Epoxy garage flooring can increase a home's value by up to $8 per square foot! That's a lot of money considering that an epoxy floor is a relatively fast and comparatively inexpensive upgrade.
What are the disadvantages of epoxy flooring? ›- Epoxy floors are hard and therefore there is contact noise during walking. ...
- Without underfloor heating an epoxy floor feels somewhat cold, similar to tiled floors.
- If there are unevennesses or cracks in the substrate, ripples can become visible in the floor.
Polyurea has a higher resistance to chemicals than epoxy and is U.V. stable. It's better for garage floors and exterior spaces, and for protecting your floor against stains, damage, chemicals and wear. They are light reflective, easy to clean, and long-lasting.
Is epoxy cheaper than tiling? ›Epoxy flooring is usually cheaper than tiled flooring, but it depends on the qualities and finishes of what you compare. Epoxy can cost anywhere between $30-$100 per sqm installed. The price range for vinyl tiles is similar, while for ceramic tiles the average cost is a lot more – $90-$150 per square metre.
Is epoxy floor hard to maintain? ›Epoxy flooring is easy to maintain by keeping dirt and debris off of it through regular sweeping. A broom that has a soft bristle or even a clue commercial dust mop is perfect for sweeping up dirt, sand, debris, and other elements like dust, wood shavings, and trash that mess up your floor.
How long do epoxy floors last? ›Typically, epoxy flooring lasts 2 to 3 years in heavy traffic. Commercial properties—like garages, restaurants, or factory spaces—with lots of daily foot traffic can expect this experience. However, with proper care and maintenance, your epoxy flooring may last much longer.
Is epoxy cheaper than concrete? ›
Epoxy paint for garage flooring is somewhat more expensive than regular concrete paint, and the labor associated with its application is a bit more intensive as well, especially since proper prepping of the floor is essential before the epoxy can be applied.
Is epoxy floor cheaper than wood? ›Economical Flooring Choice
Compared to many other types of flooring, epoxy is relatively inexpensive per square foot. Additionally, installment doesn't require a complete overhaul; epoxy can be applied directly on top of pre-existing concrete, wood, or steel.
For heavy duty situations, standard epoxy floor coatings and resinous systems can be installed at thicknesses of 0.375 inches (375 mils or 3/8”) or greater. These typically incorporate various strengthening aggregates or powders, followed by application of select grout coats and topcoats.
How much floor does 1 gallon epoxy cover? ›How much will a gallon of floor coating cover? Based on a perfectly flat surface, 1 gallon of 100% solids epoxy floor coating will cover 1600 sq. ft.
How much epoxy do I need for 500 square feet? ›Typical two-car garage: Typically between 400 and 550 square feet, we recommend one (1) three-gallon kit and an additional 1.5-gallon kit.
Why epoxy floors fail? ›The most common reasons for a failure in your epoxy floor coating are, the floor was not properly prepared, the epoxy floor coating used was water based or other low grade type of epoxy, the epoxy was not rated for the type of traffic on it and or the floor has an issue such as moisture, oil stains, corrosion or ...
Does epoxy scratch easily? ›Due to its immense strength and resistance to moisture and chemicals, epoxy resin does not readily scratch, helping it to maintain its glossy finish without additional steps for years after installation.
What can damage epoxy floor? ›- Stained or wet concrete – If your concrete is old and used, chances are some oil, chemicals and water have been spilled on it. ...
- Sealant on concrete – If there is a seal on your concrete floor, it prevents the epoxy from properly bonding with the concrete.
The chemicals in epoxy resin systems can affect your health when they come in contact with your skin, or if they evaporate or form a mist or dust in the air you breathe. The main effects of overexposure are irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, skin allergies, and asthma.
Do epoxy floors crack? ›Do Epoxy Floors Crack? Epoxy floors are very rigid. As a material, epoxy has very little flexibility, so slight shifts in the foundation can lead to cracks forming in an epoxy coating, leaving you with cracked floors that are difficult to repair without recoating with a new layer of epoxy–an expensive proposition.
Is epoxy flooring smelly? ›
Epoxy Floor Coatings Have Strong Fumes
The smell is similar to that of ammonia. The pungent smell of epoxy does more than just make the application job uncomfortable. It can have side effects that affect your health. For instance, you may notice inflammation in your eyes, throat, and eyes.
Polyurea is more durable than epoxy and more flexible because it is an elastomer. It is also chemical resistant and can withstand stable heat up to 266℉ and 430℉ for a shorter amount of time according to Corrosionpedia. Polyurea is UV resistant and will not yellow in the sun.
Is there something better than epoxy? ›Polyurethanes are softer, more flexible and offer better color and gloss retention. They perform well as structural protection, are more versatile in terms of protecting assets in harsh weather conditions and offer better impact resistance than epoxy and urethane coatings.
Can epoxy floor be done in one day? ›If using 100% solids epoxy, your floor will be cured and walkable in about 12 - 18 hours. You can return to full heavy traffic after about 36 - 72 hours. Most epoxies reach full chemical cure within 7 days of application.
Are epoxy floors slippery? ›Epoxy floors are slippery
While epoxy floors may look slippy they are far from it. In comparison to most other smooth surfaces, you'll find that epoxy floors are far less slippery while they're also skid resistant. If you do install an epoxy floor there are slip-resistant options that come with it.
It is estimated that contractors' costs for installing epoxy flooring costs in the US will range between $5 and $12 per square foot. These prices will mostly depend on the contracting company that is hired and the decorative finish chosen for installation.
Is epoxy flooring waterproof? ›Many epoxy floors claim to be waterproof, but unless they are a resin-rich poured floor, they are only temporarily waterproof. The amount of aggregate needed for most quartz epoxy flooring leads to voids, which allow liquids to penetrate. They rely on a thin top coat of sealant to keep the water out.
Can you pressure wash epoxy floor? ›If the garage epoxy floor becomes extremely dirty you can mix up some dish washing liquid or some Simple Green and wash the floor down with that and a garden hose. Pressure washing is now no longer necessary but OK to do if you want to. Just don't zero point the nozzle.
Can you use a steam mop on epoxy floors? ›3. Once you apply the solution, use a mop with hot water to clean the floor and rinse frequently to rid your mop of the accumulated dirt and your floor of the soapy residual. We have also found that Steam Mop's do an excellent job as well.
How much does it cost to epoxy a 3 car garage floor? ›| Garage Size | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Car | $800 | $1,850 |
| 2 Car | $1,300 | $3,100 |
| 3 Car | $2,100 | $5,000 |
Can an epoxy floor be touched up? ›
Once it's fully cured, you can apply a new layer of epoxy. A good epoxy patching kit can replace mortar to speed up this process. If the damage is far more extensive than a handful of minor cracks and chips, you may need to take more extreme measures to repair the flooring.
Which is better epoxy or tiles? ›Tile can be durable, but it's also prone to cracks and chips. Epoxy flooring can last for many years without chipping, cracking, fading, or coming loose.
Do epoxy floors stay shiny? ›Installing an epoxy floor gives your home an elegant and glossy appearance. The surface may lose its sparkle due to high foot traffic as the years go by. As such, scheduling for thorough epoxy cleaning once or twice a year can restore your floor's lost glory.
Do epoxy floors scratch? ›Epoxy flooring doesn't scratch easily due to it being a hard resin coating, however like any surface if something sharp enough scratches the surface, scratches may appear.
What are the pros and cons of epoxy? ›In a Nutshell: Pros and Cons of Epoxy Floors
The strengths of epoxy flooring are relative affordability, high customizability, and great durability. On the other hand, the weaknesses of this material include long curing time, difficult installation process, and its possible slipperiness when wet or oily.
As discussed earlier, concrete and hard plaster are excellent resin epoxy alternatives. There are also plenty of other alternative to epoxy resin. Other substances that you can go for include metal, plastic, slush latex, and alabaster as a substitute for resin.
Can I epoxy over plywood? ›Unlike concrete which provides a stable substrate to apply epoxy over, plywood is extremely flexible, and experiences expansion and contraction. This means a standard epoxy coating is not going to be suitable as it will crack, tear, peel and ultimately fail, particularly along the joins, due to differential movement.
Is vinyl or epoxy flooring better? ›With proper engineering and additives, epoxy floors protect the concrete substrate from cracks, moisture, grease, and stains. On the other hand, vinyl flooring can rip and tear easily. This can be a detriment if water permeates the product and causes mold, mildew, and bacteria to form.
How many coats of epoxy flooring? ›With a garage epoxy floor, you will want to add at least two coats. Allow at least 12 hours to dry between coats and no more than 48 hours. Although the floor will be touch dry after a few hours, it takes a few days to cure properly.
Do I need to grind floor before epoxy? ›Floor grinding is a critical step in preparing the surface for an epoxy coating or paint.
Do I need a vapor barrier for an epoxy floor? ›
Typically, an epoxy moisture vapor barrier is unnecessary. Properly constructed garages that are at or above grade will have a stone base under the concrete slab. So, moisture vapor emission rates (MVER) will be very low.
How many layers of epoxy can you pour? ›Yes, you can apply a second coat of resin if you need to fix a mistake or a surface imperfection. You can also pour multiple layers if you need to cover areas of high relief, if you're pouring into a mold or if you simply like the look of a thicker coat.
How many coats of epoxy do I need? ›Most projects need between two and four. However many coats you're planning on, you need to recoat at the right time and in the right way and ensure your surface is properly prepared.
How much does it cost to epoxy 800 square feet? ›Equipment and materials cost between $2 and $5 per square foot, and labor averages between $1 and $7 per square foot. Epoxy flooring averages between $3 and $12 per square foot, including installation fees.
Is epoxy as strong as concrete? ›Standard concrete is typically 4,000-5,000 psi. Whereas, epoxy systems from Simon Surfaces typically reach at or above 10,000 psi. It can be two-to-three times stronger than concrete. Hardness is a measure of a material's resistance to indentation.
How many gallons of epoxy do I need for 1000 square feet? ›You need enough epoxy assigned to the slick coat to cover your full square footage. For example, if you have 1000 sq ft, you will need 15 gallon of epoxy assigned to your slick coat.
How much does it cost to epoxy a 2 car garage floor? ›Epoxy garage floor cost is $2.50 to $9.00 per square foot. The average epoxy flooring cost is $6.55 per square foot or about $3,050 for a two-car garage. This cost includes acid etching of the concrete, two coats of material and decorative flakes.
How long does epoxy last on floors? ›The longevity of an epoxy floor system will vary based on thickness, use and maintenance. Typically, epoxy floors last between 10 and 20 years; much longer than a painted concrete floor, which will chip and wear quickly in high-traffic areas.
Can I do epoxy floor yourself? ›If you're looking to give your garage floor or basement floor a makeover, epoxy flooring is a great option. It's durable, easy to clean, and can resist stains and spills. Plus, it can give your space a whole new look. Creating an epoxy floor is a popular do-it-yourself project.
What is better than epoxy for garage floor? ›Polyurea has a higher resistance to chemicals than epoxy and is U.V. stable. It's better for garage floors and exterior spaces, and for protecting your floor against stains, damage, chemicals and wear. They are light reflective, easy to clean, and long-lasting.
Are epoxy floors high maintenance? ›
In terms of daily maintenance, epoxy floors are pretty low-key. They don't need much, but a daily sweep and mop should be part of the cleaning routine.
Is epoxy floor slippery? ›Resinous garage floor coatings like epoxy, polyuria, and polyurethane are non-porous, which is why the surface tends to be extremely smooth. Although this type of surface works fine when dry, it becomes slippery, which can pose a threat with a mere introduction of water, oils, or mud.
Does epoxy damage easily? ›Durability. Epoxy resin has become a popular choice for lab furniture designers and manufacturers primarily for its incredible strength and durability. Once dry, epoxy resin is virtually impossible to break and can withstand regular heavy impact and pressure without splitting, splintering, or cracking.
How long after epoxy floor can you walk on it? ›Most experts agree that epoxy is safe to walk on after about 25 hours (that extra hour counts) and polyaspartic is ready after about 6 hours. But it's still a good idea to wait the full 48 - 72 hours before exposing your new floor to any heavy traffic or heavy equipment.
Do epoxy floors peel? ›An epoxy floor can peel for many reasons, some of them related to the surrounding conditions as professionals apply it. An epoxy floor can peel if during application or setting: The temperature is too high. The temperature is too low.