If you’ve been researching options for your garage floor, you’ve likely seen ads promoting “epoxy garage floor” installations at what seems like an unbelievable price. And while we totally get the appeal of a great deal, it’s worth taking a step back before jumping in.
Because when it comes to concrete coatings, you truly get what you pay for.
In this post, we’re breaking down the hidden costs that often come with going the cheapest route—and why doing your research before you choose an installer can save you money, time, and frustration in the long run.
1. Cheap Materials = Short Lifespan
Many “budget-friendly” epoxy systems—especially DIY kits—use low-solids formulas or thin, single-coat applications. These coatings might look fine on install day, but they’re prone to:
- Peeling under hot tires
- Yellowing in the sun
- Failing from poor adhesion
- Chemical staining or moisture issues
And most of all, they lack durability. DIY kits in particular often can’t stand up to the day-to-day wear of a garage—especially in Colorado’s temperature swings and winter chemicals. A floor that fails in a year or two isn’t saving you money—it’s costing you more in repairs or a full replacement.
2. Minimal Prep Means Maximum Risk
Some companies cut costs by skipping proper surface prep. Instead of using mechanical diamond grinding (the gold standard), they might do a quick acid wash—or skip prep altogether.
That’s a recipe for delamination.
Even the best product won’t stick if the surface beneath it isn’t properly prepped.
And here’s the thing—DIY kits still require proper prep, too. You’ll need access to specialized equipment like grinders or shot blasters, which can be expensive to rent. Plus, knowing what a correctly profiled surface looks and feels like takes experience. If the prep is off, the whole system is compromised.
3. The Price May Be Low—But What’s Actually Included?
A lot of low-cost epoxy garage floor quotes don’t tell the full story. Once the job starts, you may find that the initial quote didn’t include:
- Repairs to the concrete
- Flake application (especially the flake coverage rate)
- Topcoat (yes, really)
- Surface preparation
That low quote can quickly balloon—or worse, lead to a finished product that just doesn’t hold up. Be sure to read the fine print—and ask plenty of questions before you sign.
4. High Price Doesn’t Always Mean High Quality Either
On the flip side, don’t assume the most expensive company is the best either.
Some national franchises and big-name brands charge a premium just for their label—not necessarily because their products or prep process are better. We’ve seen firsthand that great results come from great practices, not a flashy logo.
The goal is to find a company that’s experienced, honest, and uses high-quality materials—without overcharging for things you don’t need.
5. Do Your Research & Ask the Right Questions
Here are a few smart questions to ask when comparing epoxy garage floor installers:
✅ How do you prep the concrete before applying the coating?
✅ What kind of materials are being used—epoxy, polyurea, polyaspartic?
✅ How long have you been in business?
✅ Are you a franchise or a privately owned company?
✅ What is the flake coverage? (Full, heavy, or partial broadcast?)
✅ How long does the installation take? (1-day installs can sound great, but proper cure times in between layers matter. Rushed timelines can mean cut corners or missed details.)
The best choice is often somewhere in the middle—not the cheapest, not the most expensive, but the team that values quality, transparency, and craftsmanship. Checkout this article about what Epoxy Flooring cost to learn what the range is, and what factors play into the pricing when you receive quotes.
Why We Don’t Offer “Cheap” Coatings
At NuWave Garages, we install professional-grade, polyaspartic floor systems designed to outperform traditional epoxy. They’re UV-stable, non-yellowing, chemical resistant, and backed by a lifetime warranty.
We only use high-quality, commercial-grade products—not all coatings are created equal, even in the professional space. We believe our customers deserve a floor that performs and lasts.
And honestly, we hate seeing homeowners who already spent money on a floor that failed, only to turn around and invest even more to have it redone. We’d rather get it done right the first time.
Final Thoughts
A cheap epoxy garage floor might look like a bargain—but the hidden costs can sneak up fast.
Do your homework, ask the right questions, and choose a team that cares about the details just as much as you do.
Have questions or ready for a quote? Contact us today. We’re happy to walk you through the process—no pressure, no surprises.