Epoxy is a popular choice for many homeowners looking to give their unfinished basement a quick and cost-effective finish. It’s affordable, durable, and easy to install. That makes it an attractive option for people who are either on a tight budget or who lack the time or expertise needed to properly seal and decorate an unfinished space.
However, epoxy flooring isn’t as inexpensive as it might initially appear. Even if you have no plans to add any other finishing touches like carpeting or wallpaper, its price will still rise given that you’ll need to purchase several other materials and supplies as part of the process.
Fortunately, there are several ways that you can reduce the overall cost of your epoxy flooring project without compromising on the finished appearance of your space.
Plan Your Budget Before You Shop
While epoxy flooring is a cost-effective alternative to expensive hardwood or tile, it’s not free. This is mainly because of the additional materials and supplies that you’ll have to buy to get the finish onto the subfloor.
As such, you must have a clear idea of how much money you’ll have to spend on your project. This is especially important if you’re planning to add other finishing touches to the space. This will allow you to shop around for the cheapest options and ensure that you don’t end up spending more than you need to.
Although there are no set maximum allowances for budgets, most professionals advise homeowners to budget around 10% of their total flooring cost.
Look For Discounts Before You Buy
Many epoxy flooring suppliers will offer discounts to qualifying customers. You can find out about these discounts by speaking with other homeowners who’ve recently used your preferred supplier. You can also use online review sites to find out whether or not your preferred epoxy flooring supplier has a good reputation for offering quality products at reasonable prices.
This is especially helpful if you’re planning to add other finishing touches to your space, such as carpeting or wallpaper. It will give you an idea of what those finishing costs might be and allow you to shop around for deals that aren’t just price.
Know What To Ask For While Inspecting Suppliers
You’re legally entitled to a free inspection of any suppliers that you’re considering working with. This is because all work is covered by the Construction Contracts Act, which stipulates that all homeowners must have a written agreement with any contractors who do any work on their homes.
You can request an inspection when you first contact those suppliers, or after you’ve signed a contract. It’s important to ask the inspector questions about their processes and ask them to list any areas for improvement.
This is especially important when dealing with smaller contractors that may not have the resources or expertise to properly seal and finish a basement. It can also help you work out whether or not your chosen epoxy flooring Florida supplier has the experience and equipment to finish your basement properly.
It’s important to keep in mind that epoxy flooring projects are often larger than they initially appear. This can lead homeowners to underestimate the costs involved. It’s important to have a realistic idea of how much finishing the job is likely to cost you.