Two flooring quotes for the same space can be thousands of dollars apart, and both can say "epoxy floor". The difference is usually in what is, and is not, written down. Here is how to read a commercial flooring quote and compare contractors fairly.
1. The system, by name
A good quote names the products and the layers: primer, base coat, any broadcast or flake, and the topcoat. "Epoxy floor" on its own could mean anything from a thin paint to a heavy-duty multi-coat system.
2. Thickness
Look for the total thickness in mils or millimetres. Thicker systems cost more but last far longer under forklifts, carts and hot tires. If one quote is much cheaper, check whether it is simply thinner.
3. Surface preparation
The quote should state how the concrete will be prepared: diamond grinding or shot blasting, plus crack and joint repair. If preparation is vague or missing, that is a red flag, because it is the main reason coatings fail.
4. Moisture testing
Is moisture testing included? What happens, and what does it cost, if the slab is too wet? A contractor who does not test is guessing.
5. What is excluded
Read the exclusions: extensive repairs, moisture mitigation, moving equipment or racking, cove base, line striping, after-hours work and disposal are often extra. Two quotes are only comparable once exclusions are lined up.
6. Schedule and downtime
The quote should say how many days the work takes, whether it can be phased, and when the floor can take foot traffic, vehicles and full use.
7. Warranty, insurance and WSIB
Ask for the warranty in writing, including what it covers and for how long, plus proof of liability insurance and WSIB clearance. A contractor without these puts the risk on you.
A quick checklist
Products and layers named
Total thickness stated
Prep method and repairs described
Moisture testing included
Exclusions listed
Schedule and return-to-service times
Written warranty, insurance and WSIB
What a Hardbond quote includes
Every Hardbond proposal names the system, thickness, prep method, schedule and warranty in writing, with $5 million liability insurance, active WSIB and a 3-year written commercial warranty. See typical epoxy flooring costs or book a free site assessment.
