DIY vs. Professional Epoxy Flooring – Which is Best for Your Garage?

Epoxy flooring is one of the best investments for a garage—durable, stain-resistant, and sleek, it transforms dull concrete into a tough, long-lasting surface. But when it comes to installation, homeowners often wonder: Should I use a DIY epoxy kit, or is it worth hiring a professional? While DIY kits promise a quick and budget-friendly solution, the reality is that epoxy installation is a technical process where mistakes can be costly. From surface preparation and mixing to application and curing, even small errors can lead to peeling, bubbling, or a failed floor within months. In this guide, we’ll break down the real differences between DIY and professional epoxy flooring, helping you decide which option is best for your garage in Raleigh, NC.

Table of Contents
1️⃣ What Makes Epoxy Flooring the Best Choice for Garage Floors?

• How epoxy works and why it’s different from regular paint
• Key benefits of epoxy for garages
• Why epoxy is ideal for Raleigh’s climate

2️⃣ DIY Epoxy Flooring: What Homeowners Need to Know

• The step-by-step DIY epoxy process
• Why surface preparation is the most critical step
• How mixing and application affect durability
• The importance of a protective topcoat (and why most DIY kits don’t include one)

3️⃣ Common DIY Epoxy Flooring Mistakes

• The biggest causes of peeling, bubbling, and failure
• How incorrect mixing and poor application lead to an uneven finish
• Why Raleigh’s climate makes DIY epoxy even harder to install correctly

4️⃣ DIY vs. Professional Epoxy Flooring: Cost Breakdown

• Real cost comparison: DIY kit vs. professional installation
• The hidden costs of fixing a failed DIY epoxy floor
• How professional epoxy provides better long-term value

5️⃣ When is DIY Epoxy Worth It? When Should You Hire a Pro?

• The rare cases where DIY might work
• Why professional installation is the better option for most homeowners

6️⃣ Why Concrete Conversions is Raleigh’s Best Choice for Garage Epoxy Flooring

• How we ensure flawless, long-lasting epoxy floors
• Our high-performance materials and expert application process
• Warranty-backed installations for long-term durability

1. What Makes Epoxy Flooring the Best Choice for Garage Floors?
Garage floors take a beating. From vehicle traffic and oil spills to moisture and heavy storage, the concrete in your garage needs a durable, long-lasting surface that can handle daily wear and tear. That’s why epoxy flooring has become the go-to solution for homeowners looking to upgrade their garage space. Unlike standard concrete or painted floors, epoxy creates a seamless, high-strength coating that resists stains, impact, and chemicals while delivering a clean, professional finish.
For homeowners in Raleigh, NC, epoxy flooring is especially beneficial. With fluctuating temperatures and high humidity levels, traditional garage flooring options often crack, stain, or absorb moisture over time. Epoxy provides a protective, moisture-resistant barrier that ensures your garage floor remains in top condition for years to come.

1.1 How Epoxy Works and Why It’s Different from Regular Paint
A common misconception is that epoxy is just another type of floor paint. In reality, epoxy is a two-part chemical compound made of resin and a hardener. When mixed together, these components chemically bond to create a hard, plastic-like surface that is far more durable than any paint or sealant.
Regular garage floor paint sits on the surface of the concrete, offering minimal protection and eventually peeling or wearing away. In contrast, epoxy penetrates the pores of the concrete and cures into a solid layer, creating a strong, long-lasting surface that won’t flake or peel.

1.2 Key Benefits of Epoxy for Garage Floors
There’s a reason why epoxy flooring is widely used in commercial, industrial, and residential garages. The benefits go beyond aesthetics—epoxy improves functionality, safety, and durability.
Durability and Impact ResistanceEpoxy coatings are three to five times stronger than traditional concrete sealers. They can withstand:

• Heavy vehicle traffic, including trucks and SUVs
• Dropped tools, jacks, and equipment
• Storage racks, workbenches, and heavy shelving

Oil, Stain, and Chemical Resistance
One of the biggest challenges of maintaining a garage floor is dealing with oil, gas, and other automotive fluids. Unlike bare concrete, which absorbs spills and stains, epoxy repels liquids and allows for easy cleanup.

Low Maintenance and Easy Cleaning
A smooth, sealed epoxy floor means no more concrete dust, grime buildup, or difficult-to-remove stains. Maintenance is simple:

• Sweep or use a dust mop to remove dirt
• Mop with mild soap and water for deeper cleaning
• No need for special treatments or frequent reapplications

Customizable Aesthetic OptionsEpoxy is not just functional—it also enhances the appearance of your garage. Homeowners can choose from a variety of finishes, including:

• Solid colors for a sleek, modern look
• Decorative flakes for added texture and depth
• Metallic coatings for a high-gloss, custom finish

Slip Resistance for Added Safety
For homeowners who use their garage as a workshop or have frequent foot traffic, epoxy coatings can be customized with anti-slip additives to improve traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls.

1.3 Why Epoxy is Ideal for Raleigh’s Climate
The climate in Raleigh, NC, poses unique challenges for garage floors. Fluctuating temperatures, high humidity, and seasonal rainfall can lead to moisture-related issues in untreated concrete. Epoxy helps prevent these problems in several ways:

• Moisture Resistance – Epoxy acts as a protective barrier that prevents water from seeping into the concrete, reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and cracks.
• Heat and Cold Tolerance – Unlike some coatings that expand and contract with temperature changes, epoxy remains stable in hot summers and cold winters.
• Prevents Freeze-Thaw Damage – Concrete absorbs moisture, which can expand when frozen and cause cracks. Epoxy eliminates this issue by sealing the concrete completely.

Epoxy flooring clearly provides exceptional benefits for garages, but many homeowners wonder if they should install it themselves or hire a professional. While DIY kits are readily available, installing epoxy isn’t as simple as rolling on a coat of paint.
In the next section, we’ll break down what it really takes to install epoxy flooring on your own, including the necessary surface preparation, mixing process, and application techniques. Many homeowners start a DIY project without realizing how much work is actually involved—and that’s where costly mistakes happen.


2. DIY Epoxy Flooring: What Homeowners Need to Know
Many homeowners consider installing epoxy flooring themselves, assuming it’s a simple weekend project. Hardware stores sell DIY epoxy kits that claim to offer professional results for a fraction of the cost, but what they don’t tell you is that epoxy application is a technical process that requires precision, proper preparation, and the right environmental conditions.

A flawless epoxy floor doesn’t just depend on the product—it depends on how well the concrete is prepared, how the epoxy is mixed and applied, and whether the right topcoat is used. Skipping or rushing any of these steps can lead to peeling, bubbling, uneven color, and premature failure.

In this section, we’ll break down each step of the DIY epoxy process, highlighting the challenges that often lead homeowners to reconsider doing it themselves.

Step 1: Surface Preparation – The Most Critical Step
The biggest reason DIY epoxy floors fail is improper surface preparation. Epoxy won’t bond correctly if the concrete is dirty, smooth, or contaminated with oil, grease, or moisture.

Grinding vs. Acid Etching: What’s the Difference?

• Grinding – Professional installers use industrial-grade grinders to create a rough surface profile that allows epoxy to penetrate the concrete and bond properly.
• Acid Etching – Most DIY kits recommend acid etching instead of grinding, but this method doesn’t fully open up the concrete pores, leading to weaker adhesion and peeling over time.

Common Surface Preparation Mistakes in DIY Projects

• Skipping concrete grinding and relying only on acid etching
• Not fully cleaning or degreasing the surface (oil stains will cause peeling)
• Failing to repair cracks and damage (epoxy won’t cover flaws—it will highlight them)
• Not testing for moisture issues (trapped moisture leads to bubbling and failure)

Professional installers always grind the concrete, ensuring maximum adhesion and a long-lasting finish. DIY kits rarely include proper surface preparation tools.

Step 2: Mixing and Applying the Epoxy
​Once the surface is prepped, it’s time to mix and apply the epoxy coating. This step requires precision, as epoxy starts curing as soon as the two components are mixed.

Challenges with Mixing Epoxy

• Epoxy consists of a resin and a hardener that must be mixed at the exact correct ratio.
• Mixing too much at once can cause the material to harden in the bucket before it can be applied.
• Mixing too little or too slowly results in an inconsistent cure, leaving soft spots or streaky areas.

Challenges with Applying Epoxy

• Rolling too thick or too thin leads to patchy or uneven areas.
• Applying epoxy in the wrong weather conditions (high humidity, excessive heat, or cold temperatures) can affect how it cures.
• Not working fast enough can result in visible seams and roller marks.

Professional installers use specialized tools, trained techniques, and experience to ensure smooth, even coverage. DIYers often struggle with consistency, leading to a blotchy or uneven finish.

Step 3: Applying a Protective Topcoat – The Step Most DIY Kits Skip
Many homeowners don’t realize that an epoxy topcoat is necessary for long-term durability. Most DIY kits only include a single epoxy coat, but professional floors always have a protective polyurethane or polyaspartic topcoat to:
✔ Increase scratch and impact resistance
✔ Protect against UV rays (DIY epoxy without a topcoat can turn yellow over time)
✔ Add chemical and stain resistance
✔ Provide a more durable, glossy finish
Without a high-quality topcoat, DIY epoxy floors are more likely to show wear, scratches, and stains within just a few years.

Professional epoxy floors include a commercial-grade topcoat, which extends the life of the floor by 10+ years. Most DIY epoxy floors lack this added protection.

Curing Time – The Final Step Before Use
After the epoxy and topcoat are applied, the floor needs time to fully cure before it can handle foot traffic or vehicles.

Typical Epoxy Curing Timeline

• Light foot traffic: 24–48 hours
• Heavy foot traffic: 3–4 days
• Vehicles & heavy loads: 7 days

Many DIYers don’t wait long enough before parking on the floor, leading to hot tire pickup (a common issue where warm tires lift sections of epoxy off the concrete).

Professional installers provide curing guidelines and use fast-drying, high-performance coatings that reduce downtime. DIY kits take longer to cure and are more prone to damage during this period.

Installing epoxy might seem simple in theory, but as we’ve covered, even small mistakes can result in a failed floor. In the next section, we’ll go over the most common DIY epoxy flooring mistakes, including why improper surface prep, humidity, and skipping the topcoat lead to peeling, bubbling, and premature failure.

3. Common DIY Epoxy Flooring Mistakes
Many homeowners start a DIY epoxy project with the expectation that it will be a quick and easy weekend job. However, once they begin, they often realize that epoxy installation is far more complex than anticipated. Even small mistakes can result in peeling, bubbling, uneven coverage, or a floor that wears out within a few years.
In this section, we’ll go over the most common DIY epoxy flooring mistakes and how they can impact the final result.

3.1 Poor Surface Preparation – The #1 Reason DIY Epoxy Floors Fail
The most important step in epoxy flooring is surface preparation. If the epoxy doesn’t bond properly to the concrete, it will start peeling and chipping within months. Many homeowners underestimate how much prep work is required, which leads to weak adhesion and failure.
Common DIY Surface Prep Mistakes

• Skipping Concrete Grinding: Many DIYers rely on acid etching, which is not as effective as professional grinding. Acid etching only removes surface contaminants, but it doesn’t create the proper rough texture that epoxy needs to bond to concrete.
• Failing to Clean & Degrease the Surface: Oil, grease, or dust on the concrete prevents epoxy from bonding, leading to weak spots and delamination.
• Not Repairing Cracks and Pits: Epoxy doesn’t hide imperfections—it actually highlights them. Any cracks, holes, or uneven surfaces need to be filled and leveled before epoxy application.
• Not Testing for Moisture Issues: Moisture in the concrete slab can cause bubbling, peeling, and adhesion failure. Professional installers use moisture meters to determine whether a moisture-blocking primer is needed.

Why Professionals Do It Better:

• They grind the concrete instead of relying on acid etching
• They deep-clean and degrease the surface to remove all contaminants
• They properly repair cracks and level the surface for a smooth finish
• They test for moisture and use the right primers to prevent future issues

3.2 Applying Epoxy in the Wrong Weather Conditions
Many DIYers don’t realize that temperature and humidity levels affect how epoxy cures. If epoxy is applied in the wrong conditions, it can cure too quickly, too slowly, or unevenly, leading to cloudiness, soft spots, or peeling.
How Weather Impacts Epoxy Application

• Too Cold: Epoxy cures too slowly, leading to a soft or sticky surface that never fully hardens.
• Too Hot: Epoxy cures too quickly, making it difficult to spread evenly and increasing the risk of roller marks.
• High Humidity: Excess moisture in the air can cause bubbles, cloudiness, and improper bonding to the concrete.

Why Professionals Do It Better:

• They check weather conditions and adjust application timing accordingly
• They use commercial-grade materials designed to handle environmental fluctuations
• They use industrial dehumidifiers if necessary to reduce humidity levels

3.3 Mixing and Application Errors
Epoxy is a two-part system that requires precise mixing for proper chemical bonding. DIYers often make critical mistakes during this step, resulting in an epoxy floor that is soft, streaky, or uneven.
Common DIY Mixing & Application Mistakes

• Mixing Too Much Epoxy at Once: Once mixed, epoxy has a limited working time before it starts to harden. If a DIYer mixes too much at one time, it can begin curing in the bucket before it’s applied.
• Not Mixing Long Enough: If epoxy isn’t mixed thoroughly, the hardener and resin won’t activate correctly, leading to patchy curing and weak spots.
• Using the Wrong Roller or Application Method: DIYers often use cheap rollers or brushes, which can leave streaks, roller marks, and bubbles in the epoxy.
• Applying Epoxy Too Thin or Too Thick:
  • Too Thin: The epoxy doesn’t fully coat the surface, leading to weak spots and early wear.
  • Too Thick: Excess epoxy traps air bubbles, causing bumpy or uneven textures.

Why Professionals Do It Better:

• They mix epoxy in precise, controlled batches to ensure consistent curing
• They use industrial-grade rollers and squeegees for even application
• They follow a methodical rolling pattern to eliminate roller marks and air bubbles

3.4 Uneven or Patchy Epoxy Coverage
A common complaint from DIY epoxy floors is that the finish looks streaky, patchy, or uneven. This usually happens because of inconsistent rolling techniques, improper mixing, or working too slowly.
Why DIY Epoxy Floors Look Uneven

• Epoxy was applied in sections with visible overlap marks
• Roller strokes were uneven, causing streaking
• Not enough epoxy was used, leading to thin spots and color inconsistencies
• Epoxy started to cure before it was spread evenly

Why Professionals Do It Better:

• They apply epoxy quickly and evenly to avoid overlap lines
• They mix and spread epoxy at the correct thickness for uniform coverage
• They use backrolling techniques to smooth out streaks and marks

3.5 Skipping the Protective Topcoat
One of the biggest failures in DIY epoxy flooring is skipping the topcoat. Many DIY kits don’t include a protective topcoat, leading homeowners to assume that one coat of epoxy is enough.
What happens if you skip the topcoat?

• The floor is more prone to scratches and scuff marks
• UV exposure can cause yellowing and fading
• Epoxy will lose its glossy appearance much faster
• Chemical spills and tire marks will stain the surface

Professional epoxy floors always include a high-performance polyurethane or polyaspartic topcoat, which:

• Adds an extra layer of durability against scratches and wear
• Protects against UV rays and discoloration
• Provides additional chemical and stain resistance
• Keeps the floor looking new for years

Why Professionals Do It Better:

• They apply a commercial-grade topcoat to extend the lifespan of the epoxy
• They use UV-stable materials to prevent fading and discoloration
• They ensure the floor remains scratch-resistant and stain-proof

3.6 The Real Cost of DIY Mistakes
Many homeowners choose DIY epoxy because it seems like a cost-saving option, but mistakes can make it far more expensive than hiring a professional from the start.
If a DIY epoxy floor fails, there are two options:

1. Live with a peeling, bubbled, or uneven garage floor
2. Pay to have the epoxy removed and redone by a professional (which can cost more than the original installation)

Correcting a failed epoxy job often requires grinding off the entire coating and starting over—an expensive and time-consuming process.
Why Hiring a Pro is the Smarter Investment:

• Professionals do it right the first time, saving homeowners from costly repairs
• Their floors last 10+ years, while many DIY floors fail in just 2–5 years
• They provide warranties, giving homeowners peace of mind

Now that we’ve covered the biggest DIY epoxy flooring mistakes, let’s compare DIY vs. professional epoxy flooring costs, durability, and long-term value. Many homeowners assume DIY epoxy saves money, but when factoring in materials, tools, and potential rework, professional installation is often the better long-term investment.



4. DIY vs. Professional Epoxy Flooring: Cost Breakdown
For many homeowners, the biggest factor in deciding between DIY and professional epoxy flooring is cost. At first glance, a DIY epoxy kit seems like the cheaper option, but once you factor in surface preparation, tools, and the risk of mistakes, the price difference is not as significant as it first appears.
In this section, we’ll break down the real costs of DIY epoxy flooring vs. professional installation, covering materials, tools, durability, and long-term value.

4.1 The Real Cost of a DIY Epoxy Garage Floor
Most DIYers assume that installing an epoxy floor is as simple as buying a kit from a home improvement store and rolling it on. However, there are several hidden costs that can make a DIY project more expensive than expected.
Materials & Equipment Needed for a DIY Epoxy Floor (Based on a 400 sq. ft. Garage)

• DIY Epoxy Kit – $150–$500 (varies by brand and quality)
• Concrete Grinder Rental – $150–$300 per day (essential for proper surface prep)
• Cleaning & Degreasing Supplies – $50–$100
• Crack Repair & Patching Materials – $50–$150
• Application Tools (Rollers, Squeegees, Brushes, Mixing Buckets, etc.) – $50–$100
• Optional Decorative Flakes – $50–$150
• Optional Clear Topcoat (Highly Recommended for Durability) – $100–$300

Total DIY Cost: $500–$1,500+
If you already own the necessary tools or skip the grinder rental, the cost could be slightly lower, but cutting corners on surface prep almost always leads to a failed epoxy floor.
Hidden Costs of DIY Epoxy:

• Fixing Mistakes – If the floor peels, bubbles, or cures unevenly, removing and redoing it can cost as much as hiring a professional from the start.
• Redoing the Job in a Few Years – Most DIY epoxy floors last 2-5 years before needing replacement, while professional floors last 10-20 years.

4.2 The Cost of Professional Epoxy Installation
Hiring a professional costs more upfront, but it provides a longer-lasting, better-looking, and more durable result.
Typical Professional Epoxy Cost (Based on a 400 sq. ft. Garage)

• Surface Preparation (Grinding & Repairs) – Included in the total cost
• High-Quality, Industrial-Grade Epoxy – $5–$10 per square foot
• Decorative Finishes (Flakes, Metallics, Custom Colors) – Optional but included in many packages
• Professional Application & Even Coverage – Ensures no roller marks, streaks, or air bubbles
• Commercial-Grade Protective Topcoat – Extends floor lifespan and prevents UV damage, stains, and scratches
• Warranty Coverage – Many professional installations come with 5–10-year warranties

Total Professional Cost: $2,000–$4,000
While professional epoxy flooring costs more upfront, it lasts 3-5 times longer than a DIY floor, making it the more cost-effective choice over time.

4.3 Why Professional Epoxy Floors Last Longer (and Cost Less in the Long Run)
A properly installed epoxy floor can last 15–20 years before needing reapplication. A DIY epoxy floor, on the other hand, typically lasts only 2-5 years before it starts peeling, cracking, or losing its gloss.
What Makes Professional Epoxy Last Longer?
✔ Industrial-Grade Surface Preparation – Professionals grind the concrete to create a proper bonding surface, ensuring the epoxy doesn’t peel.
✔ High-Performance Epoxy Materials – Contractors use 100% solids epoxy that is stronger, thicker, and more resistant to wear than DIY kits.
✔ Multiple Layers & Protective Topcoat – Professional installations include primer, basecoat, decorative elements (if desired), and a clear topcoat to maximize durability.
✔ Expert Mixing & Application – Prevents common DIY issues like air bubbles, streaks, and uneven curing.
Even though DIY epoxy is cheaper upfront, having to redo it every few years means homeowners often spend more over time than if they had hired a professional in the first place.

4.4 Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Over 15 Years
If a DIY epoxy floor lasts 3 years on average and a professional epoxy floor lasts 15 years, here’s what the total cost looks like:
DIY Epoxy (Redoing Every 3 Years)

• Initial Installation: $1,000 (average)
• Redo Every 3 Years (5x over 15 years): $5,000
• Total Cost Over 15 Years: $6,000

Professional Epoxy (Lasts 15+ Years)

• One-Time Installation Cost: $3,000 (average)
• Total Cost Over 15 Years: $3,000

Hiring a professional actually saves money in the long run, because you don’t have to keep redoing the floor.

4.5 DIY Epoxy: Worth the Risk or Better to Hire a Pro?
DIY epoxy might be worth it if:
✔ You have a small, low-traffic garage where imperfections don’t matter.
✔ Your concrete is in perfect condition (no cracks, stains, or moisture issues).
✔ You already own the necessary tools and have experience applying coatings.
However, professional installation is the better choice for:
✔ Homeowners who want a flawless, showroom-quality garage floor.
✔ Those with cracked, stained, or moisture-prone concrete that needs expert prep.
✔ Anyone who doesn’t want to waste time, effort, or risk costly mistakes.
✔ Those looking for a long-term flooring solution with a warranty.
If you plan to stay in your home for years or want a garage floor that adds value and lasts, professional epoxy installation is the smarter investment.


Now that we’ve compared the costs and long-term value of DIY vs. professional epoxy flooring, it’s time to discuss when DIY epoxy might be a reasonable option and when it’s better to hire a pro. In the next section, we’ll outline the scenarios where DIY epoxy could work and when calling a professional is the best decision.


5. When is DIY Epoxy Worth It? When Should You Hire a Pro?
At this point, it’s clear that professional epoxy flooring provides better durability, appearance, and long-term value than DIY kits. However, some homeowners still wonder: Are there situations where DIY epoxy makes sense?
The answer depends on a few key factors, including your garage’s condition, your experience with coatings, and your expectations for the final result. In this section, we’ll break down when DIY epoxy might work and when hiring a professional is the better choice.

5.1 When DIY Epoxy Might Be a Reasonable Option
Although DIY epoxy has its risks, there are a few cases where it might be an acceptable choice.
✔ Your Garage is Small and Low-Traffic

• If you’re applying epoxy in a single-car garage, storage shed, or workspace that doesn’t see a lot of foot or vehicle traffic, DIY might be a practical option.
• Fewer seams and less surface area make it easier to achieve an even coat.

✔ Your Concrete is in Perfect Condition

• If your garage floor is new or in near-perfect shape, meaning no cracks, no stains, and no moisture issues, DIY epoxy is less likely to fail.
• However, even new concrete needs proper grinding to ensure adhesion.

✔ You Have Experience with Coatings & Surface Prep

• If you’ve worked with epoxy, polyurethane, or concrete coatings before, you may have the skills to properly mix, apply, and level the epoxy.
• You should be comfortable using a concrete grinder since acid etching alone is not enough for long-term adhesion.

✔ You Understand the Risks and Are Willing to Fix Mistakes

• If you’re prepared for the possibility that the epoxy might peel, bubble, or wear out sooner than expected, and you’re okay with redoing it in a few years, DIY may be a suitable option.
• However, if you expect a flawless, professional-grade finish, DIY is unlikely to meet your expectations.

5.2 When You Should Hire a Professional
In most cases, hiring a professional epoxy installer is the smarter choice. Here’s when you should skip the DIY kit and call a pro.
✔ You Want a Floor That Lasts 10+ Years

• DIY epoxy typically lasts 2–5 years before showing signs of wear.
• Professional epoxy lasts 10–20 years with proper maintenance.

✔ Your Garage Floor Has Cracks, Stains, or Moisture Issues

• Epoxy doesn’t bond well to cracked or oil-stained concrete. Professionals repair and prep the surface correctly to ensure a strong bond.
• Moisture is a major issue in Raleigh garages—if you don’t test for it, DIY epoxy may bubble or peel within months.

✔ You Want a Flawless, Professional Appearance

• Many DIY epoxy floors end up streaky, uneven, or blotchy due to inconsistent application.
• Professionals use commercial-grade tools and techniques to create a smooth, seamless, high-gloss finish.

✔ You Need a High-Performance Floor That Can Handle Heavy Use

• If you park heavy vehicles, use your garage as a workshop, gym, or high-traffic space, you need industrial-grade epoxy with a protective topcoat.
• Most DIY kits don’t include a proper topcoat, making them more prone to scratching, yellowing, and wear over time.

✔ You Don’t Want to Spend Your Weekend Grinding & Mixing Epoxy

• Properly installing DIY epoxy takes 2–3 full days of surface prep, mixing, application, and curing.
• Professional installers complete the job in 1–2 days while ensuring perfect results.

✔ You Want a Warranty & Peace of Mind

• If a DIY epoxy floor fails, you’re on your own—most DIY kits don’t offer warranties.
• Professionals provide warranty-backed installations, so if something goes wrong, you’re covered.

5.3 The Smart Investment: Long-Term Costs of DIY vs. Professional Epoxy
Many homeowners choose DIY because they think it’s the cheaper option, but when you factor in repairs, reapplication, and time spent, hiring a professional is the better long-term investment.
Cost Over 10 Years: DIY vs. Professional🔹 DIY Epoxy Floor (Redo Every 3–5 Years)

• Initial Cost: $1,000 (average)
• Redo Every 3 Years: 3x over 10 years = $3,000
• Total Cost Over 10 Years: $4,000

🔹 Professional Epoxy Floor (Lasts 10+ Years)

• One-Time Installation Cost: $3,000 (average)
• Total Cost Over 10 Years: $3,000

Professional installation is not only a better investment, but it also saves time, effort, and frustration.

5.4 Final Verdict: Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
If you want a durable, long-lasting garage floor that looks amazing and withstands years of use, hiring a professional is the best choice.
DIY epoxy might work if:

• You have a small, low-traffic space where imperfections aren’t a big deal.
• Your concrete is in excellent condition with no cracks, stains, or moisture issues.
• You own the right tools and have experience with epoxy coatings.
• You’re okay with the risk of having to redo it sooner than expected.

Professional epoxy is the better choice if:

• You want a floor that lasts 10+ years with minimal maintenance.
• Your garage has cracks, stains, or moisture issues that need proper repair.
• You want a flawless, high-gloss, slip-resistant finish.
• You don’t want to spend a weekend grinding, mixing, and hoping for the best.
• You want a warranty-backed installation and professional results.

For most homeowners, a professional epoxy floor is the best investment. It saves money in the long run, looks better, and lasts longer than any DIY kit on the market.


Now that we’ve covered when DIY epoxy might work and when hiring a pro is the better option, it’s time to discuss why Concrete Conversions is Raleigh’s top choice for garage epoxy flooring.
In the next section, we’ll cover:

• What sets Concrete Conversions apart from other epoxy installers
• How our installation process ensures a flawless, long-lasting epoxy floor
• The benefits of working with a professional team instead of gambling on DIY results

6. Why Concrete Conversions is Raleigh’s Best Choice for Garage Epoxy Flooring
​By now, it’s clear that professional epoxy flooring lasts longer, looks better, and provides the best long-term value compared to DIY kits. But choosing the right contractor is just as important as choosing epoxy itself. Not all epoxy installers use the same materials, techniques, or attention to detail, which can impact the durability and performance of your floor.
At Concrete Conversions, we specialize in high-quality, professionally installed epoxy flooring for garages, basements, and commercial spaces in Raleigh, NC. Our team is committed to delivering a flawless, long-lasting epoxy floor that enhances the look and function of your space while standing up to heavy use, vehicles, and the elements.

6.1 Our Proven Epoxy Installation Process
Unlike DIY kits, which cut corners on materials and surface preparation, we use a multi-step process to ensure maximum adhesion, durability, and performance.
Step 1: Concrete Grinding & Surface Preparation

• We use industrial-grade grinders to mechanically open the concrete pores, ensuring proper epoxy adhesion.
• We deep clean and degrease the surface to remove oil, stains, and contaminants that could cause peeling.
• We fill cracks, pits, and imperfections so the final surface is smooth and seamless.

Step 2: Professional-Grade Epoxy Application

• We apply a penetrating primer coat that strengthens the bond between the epoxy and the concrete.
• We mix and apply high-performance, 100% solids epoxy, which is thicker and more durable than DIY products.
• Our team uses specialized squeegees and rollers to ensure even coverage and eliminate roller marks or streaks.

Step 3: Customization & Decorative Options

• We offer solid colors, decorative flakes, metallic finishes, and custom blends to create a unique look.
• Anti-slip additives are available for added traction and safety.

Step 4: Protective Topcoat for Maximum Durability

• We finish with a commercial-grade polyurethane or polyaspartic topcoat that resists UV rays, chemicals, tire marks, and scratches.
• This topcoat extends the floor’s lifespan, making it easier to clean and maintain.

Our detailed application process ensures that your epoxy floor will remain strong, beautiful, and resistant to wear and tear for years to come.

6.2 Why Homeowners in Raleigh Choose Concrete Conversions
✔ Locally Owned & Operated – We’re based in Raleigh, NC, and understand the unique challenges of installing epoxy flooring in North Carolina’s climate.
✔ Experienced & Skilled Team – We have years of hands-on experience installing epoxy in residential and commercial garages, warehouses, and industrial spaces.
✔ High-Quality, Commercial-Grade Materials – We use 100% solids epoxy, high-performance primers, and industrial topcoats that last 10+ years.
✔ Fully Customized Epoxy Floors – Whether you want solid colors, decorative flakes, or metallic finishes, we offer a range of options to match your style.
✔ Slip-Resistant & UV-Stable Coatings – Our anti-slip additives improve safety, and our topcoats prevent yellowing or fading from sunlight exposure.
✔ Fast, Efficient, & Hassle-Free Installation – We complete most garage epoxy installations in just 1–2 days, minimizing disruption to your home.
✔ Competitive Pricing & Warranties – We offer fair, transparent pricing and warranty-backed installations for peace of mind.

6.3 Transform Your Garage with a High-Quality Epoxy Floor
A garage epoxy floor is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Whether you use your garage for parking, storage, a home gym, or a workshop, epoxy provides a seamless, durable surface that enhances both appearance and function.
Rather than risk costly mistakes, early wear, or a patchy DIY finish, trust Concrete Conversions to deliver a professional, long-lasting epoxy garage floor that you’ll love for years to come.

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📞 Call Concrete Conversions at (919) 273-4233
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Let’s make your garage look better than ever with a flawless, professional epoxy floor. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and estimate!