Myth vs. Reality: What You Need to Know About DIY Epoxy Floor Coatings

Myth: All Epoxy Floor Coatings Are Basically the Same

It’s a common belief—especially among DIYers in Akron and Cleveland—that all epoxy floor coatings are created equal. If it says “epoxy” on the label, it must work, right? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. DIY Epoxy kits sold at hardware stores are usually water-based or solvent-based formulas designed to be thin and easy to apply. But easy doesn’t mean effective.

Reality: Professional Coatings Are a Different Class Entirely

At Forte Garage Floor Coating, we install a 100%-solids, moisture-mitigating epoxy as our base (primer) coat—a commercial-grade product that:

• Doesn’t shrink or evaporate during curing
• Bonds deeply into the concrete surface for maximum durability
• Offers far better moisture mitigation, crucial in Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles

DIY coatings may look nice for a few weeks, but they can’t handle Northeast Ohio’s damp weather, snowmelt, or humidity. Peeling, bubbling, and discoloration are almost inevitable.

DIY Epoxy Myth: Surface Prep Isn’t That Important

Some DIY instructions suggest that sweeping and rinsing your garage floor is enough before applying a coating. But skipping proper prep is the fastest path to failure.

Reality: Prep Is Everything

Our Forte team uses industrial-grade diamond grinders to profile the slab. We:

• Repair cracks and damage
• Address moisture-vapor transmission
• Ensure the concrete is ready to bond with the coating

Without this prep, your epoxy floor coating will fail—no matter how many coats you apply.

GFC’s 2-Day System Leaves DIY Epoxy in the Dust

We never rush a quality job. Our 2-day process ensures a lasting result:

• Day 1: Full concrete prep (grinding and crack repair) and application of our 100%-solids, moisture-mitigating epoxy base coat
• Day 1: Broadcast of your chosen flake blend in a full-flake spread
• Day 2: Two 100%-solids polyaspartic topcoats for a seamless, durable finish