Installing polyaspartic and epoxy floors can be one of the best upgrades for your garage, patio, or commercial space, but only if it’s done right. When it’s not, the consequences show up fast: bubbles, peeling, discoloration, or even full system failure. The truth is that many of these problems stem from simple but critical mistakes that occur before, during, or just after installation.
If you’re searching for epoxy flooring near me, it’s essential to understand these seven common mistakes and how to avoid them. At Kongcrete Coatings, we’re committed to helping property owners make smart, lasting investments. Let’s walk through the top epoxy flooring missteps and what you can do differently.
1. Poor Surface Preparation
Skipping proper surface prep is the most frequent (and costly) error in epoxy flooring projects. Epoxy requires a clean, dry, and textured concrete surface to bond effectively. If the concrete isn’t profiled or cleaned properly, adhesion suffers, and failure begins.
Signs of poor prep include:
- Peeling or flaking within months
- Bubbling due to trapped air or contaminants
- Corners lifting or edges separating from the base
Contractors must grind the concrete mechanically, remove contaminants, and test for porosity and moisture. Kongcrete Coatings performs full prep (including diamond grinding and dust removal) on every job to ensure strong bonding and long-term performance.
2. Applying Epoxy Over Moisture
Florida’s humidity isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a threat to epoxy systems. When water vapor escapes from under the concrete slab, it pushes up through the epoxy, creating bubbles, clouding, and lifting.
Common outcomes of moisture issues:
- Blistering and delamination
- Discoloration under clear coats
- Floor lifting or peeling in patches
We use moisture meters to check for vapor emissions and apply a moisture barrier when needed. A solid polyaspartic-epoxy floor system depends on a dry, sealed foundation.
3. Choosing the Wrong Type of Epoxy
If you’ve been on the look out for epoxy floor installers near you, remember, not all epoxy is created equal. Off-the-shelf kits at home improvement stores often include one-part water-based coatings that lack durability. These coatings:
- Yellow with UV exposure
- Break down with vehicle weight
- Stain from oils, gas, and chemicals
Kongcrete Coatings uses multi-layer systems that combine an industrial-grade epoxy base with a polyaspartic topcoat. This formula offers exceptional UV protection, chemical resistance, and long-term visual appeal. The difference is night and day, both in appearance and lifespan.
4. Ignoring Weather Conditions
Installing epoxy at the wrong time can compromise the cure. Orlando weather brings heat, humidity, and surprise rain, which must all be accounted for during scheduling. Applying the coating during the wrong window can lead to surface imperfections, inconsistent curing, or even full system failure if not properly managed.
Mistakes caused by poor timing:
- Cure failure from humidity
- Debris embedding in wet coatings
- Water exposure before the floor sets
Our team actively monitors weather forecasts and adapts our installation schedule to suit environmental conditions. We also avoid applying epoxy during mid-day heat to ensure a smoother finish and minimize the risk of bubbling or surface clouding. Proper timing ensures maximum adhesion, longevity, and visual clarity.
5. Skipping the Topcoat
Think of the topcoat as the armor for your epoxy system. Without it, the underlying coating is vulnerable to UV rays, spills, scratches, and wear from vehicles or foot traffic. Over time, exposure without this protective layer leads to fading, chipping, and faster overall degradation of the floor.
A high-performance polyaspartic topcoat offers:
- UV resistance to prevent yellowing
- Easy-to-clean surface that resists chemicals
- Optional grit for slip resistance
At Kongcrete, every system includes a professionally applied topcoat that boosts longevity, visual clarity, and durability. It also enhances color depth and provides a seamless, glossy finish that keeps your floor looking new even in high-traffic or outdoor environments.
6. Rushing the Cure Process
You might be eager to walk or drive on your new floor, but moving too soon causes permanent damage.
What happens if you rush the cure?
- Tire marks or footprints get embedded
- Surface becomes uneven
- Adhesion and durability are compromised
We recommend:
- Light foot traffic after 24 hours
- Heavy objects or cars after 72 hours
Following post-installation guidelines preserves the system’s integrity and gives you a stronger, more reliable surface.
7. Neglecting Long-Term Maintenance
Even the toughest floors need upkeep. Without occasional maintenance, you risk:
- Dulling of finish
- Dirt buildup in textured coatings
- Gradual breakdown of sealants
Best practices include:
- Routine cleaning with pH-neutral products
- Avoiding abrasive tools or cleaners
- Resealing every 5–7 years, depending on use
At Kongcrete Coatings, we offer tailored maintenance plans so clients can protect their floors and maximize their investment.
What to Ask Before Hiring an Epoxy Flooring Contractor
Avoiding these mistakes starts with selecting the right team. If you’re looking for epoxy floor coating near you, vet your contractors carefully. Here are some questions to ask:
- Do you perform moisture testing before installation?
- What type of epoxy system do you use: single-part or multi-layer?
- Do you include a polyaspartic or UV-stable topcoat?
- What is your preparation process?
- Can you provide photos or references from recent jobs in Orlando?
- Do you offer a warranty?
Kongcrete Coatings meets and exceeds these standards with every project. Our focus is on durable, attractive floors built to last in Florida’s challenging environment.
Why Avoiding These Mistakes Matters
Epoxy flooring is more than a surface; it’s a system. Cutting corners anywhere in the process weakens the entire installation and leads to costly fixes down the line.
With Kongcrete Coatings, you get:
Thorough surface prep
- Moisture protection
- UV-resistant coatings
- Detailed aftercare instructions
- Friendly, transparent service
We’ve installed hundreds of floors across Greater Orlando and surrounding communities like Windermere, Ocoee, and Winter Garden. Our clients trust us for clean installations, high-quality materials, and proactive support.
There’s a right way to install epoxy and a lot of wrong ways. By understanding and avoiding these top seven mistakes, you can protect your space, your time, and your budget. Whether it’s a garage, patio, showroom, or workshop, Kongcrete Coatings is ready to help you get it right from the start.
Still searching for epoxy flooring near me? Let Kongcrete Coatings show you what long-lasting, professional-grade floors really look like.
Visit kongcretecoatingsco.com to schedule your consultation today.