The Cost of a Bargain

Epoxy flooring has exploded in popularity among Vancouver homeowners looking for a durable, sleek, and long-lasting solution for their garages, basements, and commercial spaces. And for good reason—when done right, epoxy can withstand heavy traffic, resist stains, and enhance the look of any floor for 15 to 20 years.

But what happens when you go with a cheap epoxy solution? Whether it’s a DIY kit from a big-box store or a low-budget contractor cutting corners, the appeal of a “bargain” epoxy floor can quickly turn into a nightmare. What seems like a great deal up front often leads to peeling, bubbling, discoloration, and costly repairs—sometimes within just a few months.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we’ve seen it all. Homeowners who thought they were saving money on an inexpensive epoxy install ended up paying thousands more to have it removed and redone properly. In this guide, we’ll break down the hidden costs of cheap epoxy flooring, including:

• Why cheap epoxy coatings fail so quickly
• The real cost of fixing a bad epoxy job
• How to spot unqualified epoxy contractors
• Why investing in a professional installation actually saves you money

By the end of this article, you’ll understand why quality matters when it comes to epoxy flooring—and how to avoid the expensive mistakes that come with a bargain installation.

1. Cheap Materials = A Short Lifespan

Not all epoxy is created equal. High-quality epoxy flooring systems use 100% solids epoxy resin, which creates a thick, durable, and chemical-resistant coating. On the other hand, cheap epoxy—often found in DIY kits or used by low-cost contractors—contains solvent-based or water-based formulas that cure thinner and weaker.

Why This Matters

A thin, low-quality epoxy layer might look good when first installed, but it doesn’t take long before it starts showing wear and tear.

🔴 Common Problems with Cheap Epoxy:

• Thinner coatings = faster deterioration. A professional-grade epoxy system is typically 2-3 mm thick, while cheap epoxy may only be 0.5 mm—leaving it vulnerable to damage.
• Weak chemical resistance. Cheap epoxy stains easily from oil, gasoline, and household cleaners.
• Less impact resistance. Dropping tools, parking cars, or moving furniture can chip and crack a weak epoxy coating.
• Discoloration over time. Cheap epoxy lacks UV stability, causing floors to turn yellow or amber when exposed to sunlight.

Real-World Example: A Costly Mistake

A homeowner in Vancouver used a big-box store DIY epoxy kit to coat their garage floor. It looked great—until about three months later, when tire marks became permanently embedded in the epoxy. Soon after, the floor began peeling, revealing bare concrete underneath.

The cost to fix it? $3,500 for professional removal and reinstallation—on top of the $800 they already spent on the DIY kit.

What You Can Do Instead

Instead of wasting money on an inferior product, invest in a high-quality, professionally installed epoxy floor. A proper epoxy system will:

• Be at least 2mm thick for maximum durability
• Resist stains and chemicals without degrading
• Stay color-stable even in UV exposure
• Last 15+ years with minimal maintenance

When it comes to epoxy flooring, you really do get what you pay for. Going cheap may seem like a deal, but you’ll end up paying more in the long run.

2. Poor Surface Preparation Leads to Peeling

Even the best epoxy in the world will fail if the concrete isn’t properly prepared before installation. This is where most cheap epoxy jobs—whether DIY or done by an inexperienced contractor—go wrong.

Epoxy doesn’t just stick to any surface; it needs a clean, porous, and properly prepped concrete base to bond effectively. If the prep work is rushed, skipped, or done incorrectly, your epoxy floor is almost guaranteed to peel, bubble, or crack within months.

The Right Way vs. The Wrong Way to Prep Concrete

A professional epoxy installer will follow a multi-step preparation process to ensure proper adhesion. Here’s how it should be done:

• Mechanical Grinding: The concrete is ground down using industrial-grade diamond grinders to create a rough, porous surface. This ensures the epoxy penetrates and bonds properly.
• Moisture Testing: Concrete naturally holds moisture, and excessive moisture can cause epoxy to bubble or delaminate. A moisture test helps determine if additional sealing or prep work is needed.
• Crack & Joint Repair: Any existing cracks, pits, or surface damage are filled and leveled before applying epoxy.
• Dust & Oil Removal: The entire surface is thoroughly vacuumed and degreased to eliminate dust, grease, and contaminants that could interfere with adhesion.

Now, let’s look at how cheap epoxy installations cut corners—and why they fail:

🔴 Common Prep Mistakes in Cheap Epoxy Installs

• Skipping Mechanical Grinding: Some installers or DIYers rely on acid etching instead of grinding, which doesn’t create enough surface texture for proper bonding.
• Ignoring Moisture Issues: Without a proper moisture test, you might install epoxy on a damp slab, leading to bubbling, lifting, or soft spots.
• Failing to Remove Oils & Grease: Epoxy won’t bond if the concrete is contaminated with oil, wax, or old sealers.

Signs of Poor Prep Work

If your epoxy floor is peeling, lifting, or bubbling, improper surface preparation is likely the culprit. Here’s what to watch for:

🔸 Epoxy peeling off in sheets – The epoxy isn’t bonded to the concrete because the surface wasn’t prepped correctly.
🔸 Visible air bubbles or pinholes – Moisture is escaping from the slab, causing bubbles in the coating.
🔸 A dusty or chalky surface – Indicates the epoxy is loosely adhered and breaking down.

Real-World Example: A Costly Lesson in Surface Prep

A Vancouver homeowner hired a budget contractor who promised “high-quality epoxy” for a fraction of the price.” The job looked great at first—but within four months, large sections of the floor began lifting and peeling.

The problem? The contractor had acid-etched the surface instead of grinding it, leading to poor adhesion. The only fix was to grind off the failed coating and reinstall it properly, costing the homeowner $4,000—on top of what they already paid for the failed job.

What You Can Do Instead

• Always choose a contractor who grinds the concrete—never one who just acid-etches.
• Ask if they perform moisture testing before installation.
• Make sure they properly clean, repair, and prep the surface before applying epoxy.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we follow a rigorous prep process to ensure your epoxy floor lasts decades, not months. Cutting corners on prep is one of the biggest mistakes you can make—don’t let a cheap install cost you thousands down the road.

3. The Hidden Costs of a “Cheap” Installation

At first glance, choosing a budget-friendly epoxy floor might seem like a smart way to save money. But here’s the reality—what you save upfront, you’ll likely pay back (and then some) in repairs, replacements, and frustration.

A poorly installed or low-quality epoxy floor doesn’t just look bad—it can lead to costly reinstallation, damage to your concrete, and even safety hazards. Let’s break down the real costs of choosing cheap epoxy.

The True Cost Breakdown of Cheap Epoxy Flooring

Homeowners are often drawn to DIY kits or ultra-low contractor quotes, thinking epoxy should be a quick and cheap upgrade. But cheap installations typically fail within 1–3 years—leading to major repair costs.

Here’s what homeowners really end up paying:

Bottom Line- A “cheap” epoxy floor often ends up costing 2-3x more in the long run.

What’s Included in a Professional Epoxy Installation?

A high-quality, professional epoxy installation isn’t just about pouring a bucket of resin—it’s an engineered system designed to last.

Here’s what you get with a pro install vs. a cheap alternative:

✅ Premium 100% Solids Epoxy: Industrial-grade formulas that resist wear, stains, and UV damage.
✅ Mechanical Surface Grinding: Ensures maximum adhesion (cheap installs often skip this step).
✅ Moisture & Crack Repair: Prevents peeling and bubbling over time.
✅ Multi-Coat Application: At least two layers of epoxy + a topcoat for extra durability.
✅ Warranty & Longevity: A 5-10 year warranty versus no guarantee with DIY or budget installs.

When you compare longevity, durability, and maintenance costs, investing in a high-quality install from the start is always the smarter financial decision.

Real-World Example: The Homeowner Who Paid Twice

A Vancouver homeowner hired a discount contractor who quoted them $2,500 for a full garage epoxy floor—far below the typical market rate. Within six months, the floor started chipping, peeling, and developing tire marks.

The contractor was unresponsive, and the homeowner was left with two options:

1- Try to patch it (cost: $1,500) with no guarantee it would last.
2- Hire a professional to remove & reinstall (cost: $5,500).

In the end, they had to pay $8,000 in total—$5,500 more than if they had just gone with a pro install from the beginning.

What You Can Do Instead

• Don’t get fooled by low prices. If a contractor’s quote is way below market rate, they’re cutting corners somewhere.
• Ask about surface prep. If they don’t grind the concrete, walk away.
• Choose a company with a strong warranty. Prime Choice Flooring provides up to 10 years of protection.
• Think long-term. A high-quality epoxy floor lasts decades—a cheap one won’t make it past a few years.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we believe in doing it right the first time. If you’re thinking about epoxy flooring, don’t settle for a cheap fix that will cost you more in the long run.

4. The Risks of Hiring the Wrong Contractor

Choosing the right epoxy flooring contractor in Vancouver isn’t just about getting the best price—it’s about making sure your floor is installed correctly, safely, and built to last. Unfortunately, the epoxy industry is filled with inexperienced installers and cut-rate contractors who offer rock-bottom pricing but deliver floors that fail within months.

If you’re considering a contractor who seems too cheap to be true, watch out for these red flags—they could cost you thousands in repairs and reinstallation.

Red Flags of a Bad Epoxy Contractor

No Grinding—Only Acid Etching

• The biggest red flag. Acid etching alone is not enough to prepare concrete for epoxy. A proper install must include mechanical grinding to ensure long-term adhesion.
• Why it’s a problem: Without grinding, the epoxy will peel and bubble within a year.

No Warranty or Only a 6-Month Guarantee

• Professional epoxy installers offer multi-year warranties (Prime Choice Flooring provides up to 10 years).
• A contractor who doesn’t back their work is expecting their floors to fail.

Rock-Bottom Pricing

• If a quote is significantly lower than other companies, the contractor is likely using low-quality materials, skipping proper prep, or rushing the job.
• Epoxy flooring isn’t cheap for a reason—high-quality resins, surface preparation, and labor cost money.

No Portfolio or References

• A good contractor should be able to showcase previous epoxy flooring projects and provide customer testimonials.
• If they can’t show you real work they’ve done, that’s a sign they lack experience or have a history of bad jobs.

Rushed Installation (One-Day Jobs)

• A proper epoxy floor installation takes time—prep, multiple coats, and proper curing.
• Be skeptical of any company that claims they can finish an epoxy floor in a single day.

How to Choose a Reputable Epoxy Flooring Contractor in Vancouver

So, how do you avoid getting ripped off? Here’s how to find an experienced, high-quality epoxy flooring company you can trust.

✅ Look for a company that grinds the concrete surface (not just acid-etching).
✅ Ask about their warranty—a quality contractor stands by their work for years, not months.
✅ Check online reviews and references—past customers can tell you if their floor lasted.
✅ Ask about materials—a good installer uses 100% solids epoxy, not low-grade coatings.
✅ Get a detailed quote—make sure it includes surface prep, layers, and curing times.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we take epoxy flooring seriously. We use industrial-grade materials, expert prep techniques, and back our work with warranties—so you get a floor that lasts decades, not months.

Real-World Example: A Bad Contractor Nightmare

A Vancouver homeowner hired a “budget epoxy contractor” they found on Facebook Marketplace, who offered to do a full garage epoxy install for $1,800—less than half the cost of professional installers.

🔹 What went wrong?

• The contractor didn’t grind the concrete—they just acid-etched it.
• They used a low-quality, solvent-based epoxy, which left the floor thin and brittle.
• Within four months, the epoxy started peeling up where their car tires sat overnight.

🔹 Final cost to fix it?

• $4,500 for professional removal and reinstallation—more than double what they would have paid if they had done it right the first time.

What You Can Do Instead

• Do your research—don’t just go with the lowest bid.
• Choose a company that does proper prep work, including grinding.
• Ask about their warranty and materials before hiring.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we get it right the first time. We’ve fixed countless failed epoxy floors from bad contractors, and we know how frustrating (and expensive) it can be. That’s why we use only the best materials, preparation techniques, and skilled installers—so your floor stays flawless for years.

5. Cheap Epoxy is More Likely to Stain, Yellow, or Scratch

When homeowners think of epoxy flooring, they picture a sleek, glossy surface that’s resistant to damage. And that’s exactly what you get—if you invest in a high-quality installation.

But with cheap epoxy kits or budget contractors, you’ll likely end up with a floor that stains, scratches, and yellows within months. Let’s break down why low-quality epoxy coatings fail to protect your floors and how professional-grade epoxy prevents these common problems.

1- Cheap Epoxy = More Stains & Chemical Damage

One of the biggest reasons people choose epoxy flooring is because it’s supposed to be resistant to stains, oil, and chemical spills. However, not all epoxy is created equal.

🔴 The Problem with Low-Quality Epoxy:

• Many DIY kits and budget installs use solvent-based or water-based epoxies, which are thinner and don’t fully seal the concrete.
• These coatings absorb oil, grease, and chemicals instead of repelling them.
• Once stains set in, they are nearly impossible to remove without redoing the entire floor.

How Professional Epoxy Prevents Staining:

• High-quality 100% solids epoxy creates a dense, non-porous barrier that blocks spills from seeping into the concrete.
• A urethane or polyaspartic topcoat adds extra resistance against oil, gas, and chemicals.
• With the right materials, your epoxy floor will stay stain-free for decades.

Real-World Example: A Vancouver homeowner used a DIY garage epoxy kit but didn’t realize it wasn’t oil-resistant. Within a few months, their floor had dark stains from motor oil and tire marks that wouldn’t come out. The only solution? A full re-grind and professional reinstallation—costing them over $4,000.

2- Cheap Epoxy Turns Yellow Over Time

If you’ve ever seen an epoxy floor that looks yellow and faded, that’s because the wrong type of epoxy was used.

Why Budget Epoxy Yellows:

• Cheap epoxy lacks UV resistance—even indirect sunlight can cause discoloration.
• Low-grade epoxies oxidize over time, leading to a dull, aged look.
• Some budget installers use low-quality clear topcoats that break down under UV exposure.

How Professional Epoxy Stays Crystal Clear:

• High-end epoxy and polyaspartic coatings are UV-stable, meaning they won’t yellow or fade.
• If your garage or basement gets natural light, a UV-resistant topcoat prevents oxidation.
• Professionally installed epoxy looks fresh and glossy for 10-20 years.

Real-World Example: A homeowner in Burnaby had a budget contractor install a low-cost epoxy garage floor. Within six months, the once-bright floor turned yellow near the garage door due to UV exposure. There was no fix—the only option was to grind it off and start over.

3- Cheap Epoxy Scratches & Chips Easily

Epoxy is known for its durability—but that’s only true if the right materials and thickness are used.

The Problem with Thin, Low-Quality Epoxy:

• Cheap epoxy is applied too thin, making it prone to scratches, scuffs, and chips.
• Many budget installers skip the topcoat, leaving the epoxy vulnerable to wear and tear.
• DIY kits often lack hardness additives, meaning even dragging a chair can leave permanent marks.

How Professional Epoxy Resists Scratching:

• A multi-layer system includes a durable topcoat that protects against heavy foot traffic, furniture, and vehicles.
• Industrial-grade epoxy formulas are designed to withstand impact and abrasions.
• With a high-quality installation, epoxy flooring remains flawless for decades.

Real-World Example: A Vancouver restaurant owner installed a cheap epoxy floor to save money. Within a few months, chairs and tables had left deep scratches, and foot traffic wore down the finish. They ended up paying for a full reinstallation with a commercial-grade topcoat.

What You Can Do Instead

If you want an epoxy floor that stays beautiful for years, don’t cut corners on quality.

• Choose a contractor who uses UV-resistant, high-solids epoxy.
• Ask about stain and chemical resistance—a good epoxy floor should repel spills.
• Make sure they include a durable topcoat to prevent scratches and wear.
• Invest in professional installation—the right materials and prep work make all the difference.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we only use high-quality, industrial-grade epoxy designed to last 15+ years. No yellowing, no stains, no peeling—just a flawless, durable floor.

6. The Right Way to Invest in Epoxy Flooring

At this point, it’s clear that cheap epoxy flooring is never really cheap—it comes with hidden costs, early failures, and expensive repairs. So, what’s the best way to ensure you’re getting a durable, long-lasting epoxy floor that won’t let you down?

The answer: Investing in a high-quality, professional installation from the start.

Here’s what makes the difference between a flawless epoxy floor that lasts 15-20 years and a budget install that starts peeling in months.

1- High-Quality Epoxy = A Long-Lasting Floor

If you want an epoxy floor that stands up to heavy use, chemical spills, and daily wear, you need professional-grade materials.

• 100% Solids Epoxy – This means no fillers or water that evaporates, leaving a thick, durable coating that doesn’t shrink.
• UV-Stable, Non-Yellowing Formulas – Prevents discoloration from sunlight exposure.
• Scratch & Stain-Resistant Topcoats – Adds an extra layer of protection against tire marks, spills, and furniture scratches.
• Customizable Finishes – Choose from flake systems, metallic effects, and satin or gloss finishes to match your space.

What Cheap Epoxy Uses Instead:

• Watered-down, solvent-based epoxy that shrinks as it cures.
• No UV stabilizers, leading to yellowing.
• No protective topcoat, making it vulnerable to scratches and stains.

Bottom Line: If you want a seamless, durable, and long-lasting epoxy floor, don’t settle for cheap materials—they simply won’t hold up.

2- The Right Installation Process = No Peeling or Cracking

A great epoxy floor isn’t just about the product—it’s about the installation process. The best epoxy contractors follow a detailed prep and application system to ensure your floor stays bonded for decades.

• Step 1: Mechanical Grinding – Prepares the concrete surface for maximum adhesion (never just acid etching).
• Step 2: Moisture Testing & Crack Repair – Prevents bubbling and ensures a smooth, even finish.
• Step 3: Multi-Layer Epoxy Application – Includes primer, base coat, flakes (if used), and a protective topcoat.
• Step 4: Proper Curing Time – Ensures full hardness and durability before use.

What Cheap Epoxy Installers Do Instead:

• Skip grinding and only acid-etch the concrete (leading to peeling).
• Rush the curing process, leaving the floor soft and prone to damage.
• Apply epoxy too thin, resulting in early wear and tear.

Bottom Line: A properly installed epoxy floor should last 15+ years—but only if it’s done correctly from the start.

3- The Cost Comparison: Cheap vs. Professional Epoxy Flooring

Homeowners often choose cheap epoxy because they want to save money. But let’s take a closer look at what you actually end up spending over 10 years.

🔹 The “Cheap” Option Costs You More in the Long Run.
🔹 A Professional Install Saves You Money Over Time.

Bottom Line: A high-quality epoxy floor is an investment, not an expense—and going cheap ends up costing you more in repairs and replacements.

4️⃣ Choosing the Right Epoxy Flooring Contractor

Now that you know why high-quality epoxy flooring is worth it, the final step is finding the right contractor.

Here’s what to look for:

✅ Uses 100% solids, industrial-grade epoxy (not solvent-based or water-based formulas).
✅ Prepares the concrete with mechanical grinding (never just acid etching).
✅ Includes a durable, UV-resistant topcoat to prevent yellowing and stains.
✅ Offers a solid warranty (5-10 years)—a company that backs their work is confident in its quality.
✅ Has a portfolio of past projects & great customer reviews.

At Prime Choice Flooring, we follow strict industry best practices to ensure every epoxy floor is built to last decades—not months. That’s why we back our installations with a 1-10 year limited warranty and use only the best materials available.

Conclusion: Get It Done Right the First Time

There’s no doubt that epoxy flooring is a fantastic investment for homeowners in Vancouver. But the key to a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting floor isn’t just epoxy itself—it’s how it’s installed and what materials are used.

🔹 A cheap epoxy job may look good at first, but it won’t last.
🔹 You’ll end up spending more on repairs, removal, and reinstallation.
🔹 A high-quality, professionally installed epoxy floor is the smarter choice in the long run.

Want an Epoxy Floor That Lasts? Call Prime Choice Flooring Today!

If you’re considering an epoxy floor for your home or business, don’t take shortcuts—go with trusted experts who will do it right the first time.

Call us at 778-513-9968 or 778-628-1193
Email: info@primechoiceflooring.com

Let’s transform your space with a stunning, durable, and professionally installed epoxy floor that lasts!