Choosing the right concrete coating company is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your garage, basement, or patio project. The difference between an expert installation and a subpar job can mean the difference between a floor that lasts 30+ years and one that fails within 3-5 years. As certified Penntek dealers, we've seen firsthand the costly mistakes homeowners make when they don't properly vet their coating contractor. Here's your complete guide to making the right choice.
Many homeowners focus primarily on price when selecting a concrete coating company. However, the quality of installation can impact your floor's lifespan by 500%. A poorly installed coating—regardless of the product quality—will fail prematurely, costing you thousands in repairs and replacements.
Consider this: while prices between coating companies might vary by only 10-30%, the longevity and performance differences can be dramatic. A properly installed Penntek floor lasts 30-40 years, while a poorly installed epoxy floor might fail in just 2-3 years.
Be extremely cautious of companies that show up unannounced offering "leftover materials from a job down the street." Legitimate concrete coating companies don't need to resort to high-pressure door-to-door tactics. These operations often use inferior materials and disappear when problems arise.
If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Companies offering significantly lower prices often cut corners on:
Avoid companies that only provide cell phone numbers or P.O. boxes. A reputable coating company should have a physical business location where you can visit, see their operation, and verify their legitimacy.
Be wary of contractors who demand you sign a contract immediately or claim their "special pricing" expires that day. Professional coating companies understand this is a significant investment and will give you time to make an informed decision.
A knowledgeable contractor should be able to explain the differences between epoxy, polyaspartic, and polyurea systems. They should also explain why they recommend a specific system for your particular concrete conditions.
Look for: Contractors who discuss the importance of matching the coating system to your concrete's hardness, moisture content, and intended use.
Red flag: Contractors who only offer one type of coating regardless of your specific needs.
Certification demonstrates that the contractor has received proper training in product application, surface preparation techniques, and quality control procedures. For Penntek systems, look for contractors who have completed certification training at Penntek headquarters.
A reputable contractor should gladly provide references from customers in your area. Don't just ask for references—actually call them and ask about:
This is perhaps the most critical question. Proper surface preparation is essential for coating adhesion and longevity. The contractor should explain:
Red flag: Contractors who minimize the importance of preparation or suggest shortcuts like acid etching instead of proper grinding.
Verify that the contractor has:
Ask to see certificates and verify coverage directly with their insurance company.
Look for contractors certified by reputable coating manufacturers. For example, Penntek certified dealers undergo rigorous training that covers:
This certification ensures your contractor has the knowledge and skills to deliver professional results.
While everyone starts somewhere, concrete coating installation requires specific expertise. Look for contractors with at least several years of experience and a portfolio of completed projects you can review.
Professional concrete coating requires specialized equipment:
Be cautious of contractors using consumer-grade equipment from home improvement stores.
The concrete coating industry continues to evolve with new products and techniques. Look for contractors who invest in ongoing education and stay current with industry best practices.
Companies like Penntek work exclusively through certified dealers who receive comprehensive training and ongoing support. This model ensures consistent quality and proper warranty support.
Some coating companies operate through franchise models. While this can provide some consistency, verify that your local franchisee has proper training and support.
Many skilled independent contractors do excellent work. However, ensure they have proper training, use quality materials, and can provide ongoing warranty support.
Not all concrete is the same. Factors that affect coating selection include:
A professional contractor should test your concrete and recommend the appropriate system for your specific conditions. Contractors who use a "one-size-fits-all" approach are likely to deliver subpar results.
A comprehensive warranty should cover:
The strongest warranties are backed by both the manufacturer and the contractor. For example, Penntek provides a lifetime manufacturer warranty, while certified dealers provide installation workmanship warranties.
If you plan to sell your home, look for warranties that transfer to new owners. This can be a valuable selling point and demonstrates confidence in the product and installation.
Be cautious of contractors who provide estimates without thoroughly inspecting your concrete. Proper estimates require:
Your estimate should clearly specify:
Professional contractors don't need to pressure you into immediate decisions. Be wary of:
Check multiple review platforms including:
Look for patterns in reviews rather than focusing on individual complaints. Pay attention to how companies respond to negative reviews.
Membership in professional organizations like the National Association of Floor Coating Manufacturers (NAFCM) or local contractor associations demonstrates commitment to industry standards.
Look for contractors who have received recognition from:
A thorough consultation should include:
The lowest bid is often the worst choice in concrete coating projects. Consider:
If something feels off during the sales process, trust your instincts. Professional contractors should be transparent, knowledgeable, and pressure-free.
Before signing any contract, ensure all details are documented:
As a certified Penntek dealer, we're committed to transparency and education throughout your decision-making process. Our consultation process includes detailed concrete analysis, system recommendations, and comprehensive written estimates with no pressure to decide immediately.
Contact us to schedule your free consultation, or learn more about our certification and training to understand why we're qualified to handle your concrete coating project.
Explore our recent projects to see examples of our work, or read customer testimonials to hear directly from homeowners who chose our team for their concrete coating needs.
Choosing the right concrete coating company requires research, but the investment in due diligence pays off tremendously. A professional installation using quality materials will provide decades of satisfaction, while a poor choice can cost you thousands in repairs and replacements.
Take time to thoroughly evaluate your options, ask the right questions, and choose a contractor who demonstrates expertise, integrity, and commitment to your long-term satisfaction. Your future self will thank you for making the investment in quality.
