Prep is the job
A garage coating fails at the slab more often than in the can. We inspect, measure, and choose prep after we see cracks, contaminants, old coating, and moisture, not from a product name on a website.
Numbered steps
01
We size the slab, note doors, drains, expansion joints, and how the garage is used. Photos plus dimensions get a starting quote moving; a walk-through confirms it.
02
Cracks, oil, rust, tire marks, previous coating, and moisture all change prep. If the slab is holding a failing coating, that coating has to be dealt with before a new system goes down.
03
Prep is selected after inspection, not from a phone photo alone. Diamond grinding is generally the stronger mechanical profile for many coatings. Etching may suit limited conditions if the approved system allows it. It does not replace every prep step and may not address coatings or contamination.
04
Cracks, spalls, and joints are addressed as needed. The surface is profiled so the basecoat has something to bite. Dust from grinding has to be controlled.
05
The approved base system goes down, then a broadcast of vinyl flakes if that is the chosen look. Density and blend are chosen in person, not from a screen.
06
Loose flake is scraped and vacuumed. A clear topcoat locks the system. Texture and cleanability come from this step as much as from the flake blend.
07
Walk-on and vehicle return times depend on the system, slab temperature, and jobsite conditions. Southern Utah heat changes the clock. We set those expectations after inspection, not as a blanket promise.
Grind vs. etch
Diamond grinding
Generally the stronger mechanical profile and useful for many coatings. It can take down high spots, open the surface, and help with existing coatings. Dust must be controlled with shrouds and vacuum. Southern Utah wind does not get a vote.
Etching
May suit limited conditions if the approved system allows it. It does not replace every prep step. It may not address old coatings or contamination. We will never say etching is always enough.
If a previous coating is peeling, grinding or removal is usually in play. If the slab is oily, chemistry and mechanical work both show up on the quote. Moisture can change the system entirely.
Comparing installers? Bring 9 questions to ask before hiring an epoxy floor installer.
Calling is fastest. Texting a wide floor photo, close-ups of cracks or old coating, the garage size, and your ZIP works too.