Can You Install Epoxy Over Existing Concrete? Here's What You Need to Know
We get asked this all the time: “Can I put epoxy over my existing concrete floor?”
Short answer: yes, in most cases…but only if the prep is done right.
A lot of people assume epoxy is like paint, just roll it on and you’re good to go. But when it comes to epoxy flooring that actually lasts, there’s a bit more to it.
Here’s what you need to know before you try to resurface an old slab.
The Condition of Your Concrete Matters
Proper Prep = Long-Lasting Floors
We say it all the time, but prep is everything.
Before we install any epoxy system, we’ll:
Mechanically grind the surface (we don’t acid etch, it’s unreliable)
Repair cracks and patch damage
Conduct moisture testing if required
Prime and build up the right system for the job
If there’s old epoxy, tiles, glue, or anything else on the slab, we’ll remove that too. No shortcuts.
When done properly, epoxy bonds with the concrete to form a sealed, non-porous surface that won’t peel, bubble or flake.
What If My Concrete’s in Really Bad Shape?
If your slab is too damaged or uneven for epoxy on its own, you might be a better candidate for a concrete overlay system.
We offer:
Microcement overlays
Polished overlay systems
Nil exposure finishes
And more custom options depending on the look you’re after
These are great if you want a fresh, architectural finish without the cost of a full rip-out and re-pour. They’re still sealed, durable, and beautiful just with a bit more flexibility when it comes to levelling or aesthetic options.
Can I DIY Epoxy Over My Old Concrete?
Honestly… we’d tread carefully.
DIY kits from the hardware store might seem like a cheap fix, but they don’t come with the industrial-grade prep or products that make epoxy last.
If your floor has moisture issues or wasn’t prepped properly, you’ll likely see peeling, bubbling or delamination within a few months.
We’ve been called in to fix plenty of DIY jobs gone wrong and sadly by that point, it’s usually more work (and more expensive) to fix.
So, Can You Do Epoxy Over Existing Concrete?
Yes and we do it all the time.
But like anything, it comes down to:
Proper surface prep
The right epoxy system
Experienced hands on the tools
At ProjectCONCRETE, we don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Every job is assessed based on the condition of the slab, your budget, and how the floor needs to perform and we’ll be straight up if we don’t think epoxy is the right fit.
Got a Concrete Floor That Needs a New Life?
Whether it’s a tired garage, warehouse, retail fitout or commercial space, we can help you bring it back to life with a proper epoxy or overlay system.
Get in touch for a no-pressure chat. We’re happy to look at your space and walk you through your options.