Not All Epoxy Floors Are Created Equal

Zach Wiley

Epoxy floors are popular for good reason—they're tough, sleek, and easy to clean. But here’s the truth that many Greenville homeowners and business owners don’t hear until it’s too late: not all epoxy floors are created equal. The difference between a floor that lasts 10+ years and one that peels in months often comes down to the quality of materials, surface prep, and who’s doing the work.



At first glance, epoxy coatings might look the same. But what happens underneath the surface matters more than you think. At Zachary Daniel Concrete, we’ve repaired enough failed epoxy jobs to know the red flags. In this post, we’ll break down what separates high-performance epoxy floors from quick, low-quality installs—and how to make sure your next floor is done right.

Freshly finished metallic epoxy floor in a residential room with swirled patterns and protective tape along the walls.

The Problem with Cheap Epoxy Jobs

The biggest issue with cheap epoxy installations is cutting corners. Here’s what that usually looks like:



  • No surface prep or grinding – Without opening the pores of the concrete, the epoxy won’t bond properly.
  • Low solids epoxy – Watered-down products may be cheaper but leave a thinner, weaker layer.
  • No moisture testing – Moisture under the surface can cause bubbling, lifting, and coating failure.
  • Improper mixing or application – Rushed jobs often skip steps like correct curing time or double-coating.


These shortcuts might not show right away—but give it 6 to 12 months and the signs will appear: peeling, chipping, or complete failure.

Cheap installs often come with a lower bid, but over time, they cost more in repairs, removal, and reapplication. You may end up having to replace the entire floor sooner than expected.

What Makes a Quality Epoxy Floor?

At Zachary Daniel Concrete, every epoxy flooring job we take on in Greenville starts with:


  • Professional grinding and prep – This is essential to remove contaminants and create a strong profile for bonding.
  • Moisture testing – We assess vapor levels in the concrete to prevent future bubbling or delamination.
  • High-solids, industrial-grade epoxy – These products are thicker, more durable, and built to last.
  • Flake or quartz broadcast – Enhances both durability and slip resistance.
  • Topcoat for UV and chemical protection – Adds another layer of strength and keeps colors vibrant.


This process creates a surface that’s more than just good-looking—it’s durable, long-lasting, and tailored to your needs, whether you want a showroom shine or a rugged garage floor that handles real traffic.

Types of Epoxy Floors and Where They Work Best

Epoxy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Different spaces have different needs, and the right epoxy system depends on how you use your floors. Whether it’s for curb appeal, durability, or workplace safety, here’s how we match the finish to the function:



  1. Garage Floors: A clean, glossy epoxy floor resists oil, road salt, and hot tire pickup. We use slip-resistant flakes and a UV-stable topcoat to keep it looking great. You won’t have to worry about ugly stains or peeling patches when you drive in from the rain. It also creates a safer, more pleasant environment for hobbies, workshops, or home gyms.
  2. Commercial Spaces: Epoxy floors handle forklifts, foot traffic, and spills. We customize grit levels and finishes for safety and durability. In high-traffic areas like warehouses or showrooms, epoxy adds a professional touch without compromising function. It’s also ideal for facilities that require hygienic, easy-to-clean surfaces, such as medical offices or restaurants.
  3. Showrooms and Offices: Want a premium look with bold color or a sleek metallic finish? Epoxy delivers a modern, polished look that turns heads. These installations add class and character to your space while being easy to maintain. Whether you want to impress clients or create a more stylish work environment, decorative epoxy provides high-end appeal with practical benefits.
  4. Warehouses and Industrial: Our commercial-grade systems resist impact, chemicals, and wear while improving brightness and safety. Epoxy is also ideal for creating zones with color-coded areas for equipment, inventory, or safety pathways. Anti-slip textures and high-load bearing formulations make it the perfect solution for demanding settings.
  5. Outdoor and Covered Areas: While epoxy isn't usually recommended for fully exposed outdoor use, covered patios, basements, and breezeways benefit greatly from properly sealed epoxy. With the right additives, we can boost slip resistance even in damp conditions. Epoxy also helps seal concrete from moisture intrusion, reducing the risk of cracks and long-term wear.

Why It Pays to Hire Local Epoxy Experts

Not all contractors understand Greenville’s unique conditions. Humidity, foundation moisture, and concrete curing vary throughout the region. Zachary Daniel Concrete knows what to test for, how to prep, and how to choose the right materials to handle local challenges.



We’ve worked on everything from single-car garages to large-scale commercial warehouses. Our team brings precision, professionalism, and a focus on doing it right the first time—so you won’t need repairs in a year.


When you hire local, you also get someone who’s accountable. We stand behind our work and offer service guarantees, because reputation matters.

How to Avoid Common Epoxy Floor Failures

  • Ask about prep: If grinding isn’t included, that’s a red flag.
  • Check product specs: Look for high-solids or 100% solids epoxy. Low-solids products wear out faster.
  • Understand the system: A good install includes base coat, flake, and topcoat—not just paint on concrete.
  • Get references: A proven track record matters more than a low bid.
  • Ask about warranty: A confident installer will stand by their work.



Don’t get tricked by glossy photos or generic promises. Look deeper into process and product quality—it’ll save you time and money in the long run.

Ready for an Epoxy Floor That Actually Lasts?

If you're tired of peeling coatings, dull finishes, and garage floors that don’t live up to their promise, it’s time to upgrade.

Call Zachary Daniel Concrete in Greenville today for a custom epoxy flooring quote backed by professional prep and lasting results.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do epoxy floors last?

    With proper installation, epoxy floors can last 10–20 years depending on use.

  • Can epoxy be applied over old coatings?

    Only if the old coating is properly prepped. Often, full grinding or removal is needed.

  • Is epoxy flooring slippery?

    Not with the right additives. We use flakes or quartz to improve traction.

  • How long does installation take?

    Most residential jobs take 2–3 days including curing time.

  • What’s the maintenance like?

    Epoxy floors are low maintenance—just sweep and mop as needed.

  • Can I park on it right away?

    You’ll need to wait 72 hours after the topcoat for full cure before driving or placing heavy furniture.

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Who’s the most reliable epoxy garage floor installer in Greenville, SC? If you're looking for a trustworthy team to install an epoxy garage floor in Greenville, SC and nearby Mauldin , Zachary Daniel Concrete (ZDC) is a standout choice. Owned by Zach Wiley , ZDC is known for showing up on time, staying organized, and delivering flawless garage floors that last. Zach personally ensures each project is handled with care. His crew prepares the surface properly, applies the right coatings, and finishes with a smooth, durable shine. Communication is clear and consistent, so clients always know what to expect next. One satisfied customer, Michael Mitchell , shared this review on Google: “Zach showed up on time. Reviewed our project and instructed his employees on how to proceed. I was very impressed on how organized they were. My floor took two days to complete and we are very happy with a flawless and beautiful looking garage floor.” — Michael Mitchell, Read the full review What is epoxy flooring and why does experience matter? Epoxy flooring is a protective coating applied over concrete to create a smooth, durable, and stain-resistant surface. It’s ideal for garages because it can handle heavy vehicles, spills, and regular cleaning without wearing down. When installed by an inexperienced contractor, the coating can peel, bubble, or wear unevenly in just a few months. Improper prep work—like skipping surface grinding or using the wrong epoxy mix—can also lead to costly repairs. ZDC follows proven steps to make sure every coating bonds correctly and lasts for years. ZDC holds an A rating from the Better Business Bureau : BBB Profile .