How We Install Epoxy Floors in Fargo, ND — Step by Step
Quick answer: A Fargo Epoxy install runs through ten steps: free estimate, move-out, diamond grinding, crack repair, cleaning, base coat, flake or metallic layer, topcoat, cure and walkthrough. A typical garage takes about one to two days on site, plus a cure period before vehicles. Call (701) 815-5240 to start.
Knowing what happens on install day makes the whole project less stressful. Here is how a typical garage floor coating goes with Fargo Epoxy, from the first call through the final walkthrough. Details vary by system and by the condition of your slab, and we confirm the specifics in your written scope.
- Call or text for a free estimate. Contact us at (701) 815-5240 or send the quote form. Tell us roughly how big the space is, what it is used for and whether it is heated.
- On-site estimate and slab review. We visit, measure the floor, and look at cracks, spalls, stains, old coatings and moisture clues. We talk through system options and bring samples so you can see colors in your lighting.
- Written scope and schedule. You receive the system, preparation, topcoat and timing in writing. In winter, this includes the heat plan for the space.
- Clear the space. Before we arrive, vehicles, storage, shelving and anything on the floor must be removed. We tell you when to move things and for how long.
- Diamond grinding. A grinder with diamond tooling removes weak surface paste, old sealers and light contamination, and opens the pores of the concrete. Dust is collected with vacuum equipment.
- Crack, joint and spall repair. Cracks are opened and filled, spalls and chipped edges are patched, and joints are detailed to allow for seasonal movement.
- Cleaning and inspection. The surface is vacuumed and wiped so no dust remains. We check for oil spots and moisture signs again before any resin goes down.
- Base coat. A tinted epoxy base coat is rolled out evenly. On metallic floors, this is followed by the metallic layer, which is worked by hand while wet.
- Flake broadcast and topcoat. For flake systems, colored chips are broadcast into the wet base; after cure, loose chips are removed and a clear topcoat is applied. A polyaspartic topcoat can be used for added hardness and UV stability.
- Cure and walkthrough. We walk the floor with you, explain when you can walk, put items back and park, and give care instructions.
How long does it take?
Many residential garages take about one to two days of work on site, depending on size, repairs and the system. Metallic and multi-coat builds can take longer. After the work is finished, the floor needs a cure period before vehicle traffic; the length depends on the products and the temperature. Larger shops and commercial floors may require more days or phased work. Your written scope lists the expected timeline.
What you need to do
- Move vehicles and stored items out of the garage or room.
- Plan parking for the duration, and for the cure period.
- Keep the space accessible, with power available.
- Heat the garage if we have asked you to; in winter we may ask for several days of heat ahead of time.
- Keep pets and children away from the work area until cured.
What we do on site
We set up dust collection, protect adjacent surfaces, mix materials according to product instructions, and monitor slab and air temperature. In a cold climate, temperature management is one of the most important parts of the job, because products have limits for both application and cure. Our cold climate guide explains why.
After installation
Keep the floor dry and clear of heavy loads during the stated cure time. Afterward, sweep and mop as needed, wipe oil promptly and avoid harsh solvents. In winter, squeegee meltwater toward the door when you can. More on what supports the bond and what the warranty typically covers is on the prep and warranty page.
Interior and commercial projects
Basement and interior jobs add dust control, ventilation and moisture review. Commercial jobs add scheduling, phasing and traffic planning. The steps above still apply, with adjustments. See interior epoxy flooring and commercial epoxy flooring.
Ready to start? Call or text (701) 815-5240.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be home during the install?
Not for the whole time, but it helps to be reachable and available for the final walkthrough.
Can I use my garage the same day?
You can usually walk lightly after the cure window stated for your system, but vehicles and heavy items need to wait longer.
What if the weather turns cold during the install?
We plan around forecasts and manage heat where possible. If conditions prevent a proper cure, we reschedule rather than risk the floor.
How is dust handled?
Grinding is done with vacuum-connected equipment to control dust, and we clean the surface before coating.