6 steps to choosing a great resin floor

We all set out on a new project wanting success. Choosing to start a resin flooring project is no different, but many dive in without taking time to make sure they get the right results. I've listed the 6 steps you should follow in choosing the right product and how best to manage the project to ensure a great outcome;

1. Understand what YOU need from a floor.

Sounds easy but after nearly 20 years specifying the right material for the job, I consider this a real priority.

A floor coating is good, but a resin screed is always better where liquid, impact, high wear, aesthetics and durability are expected. There are many types of systems, all good for specific jobs, but very few good for everything.

The trick is to find the best match and for that you'll need experience. You should also be prepared to raise the budget, but like most things we buy, choosing the cheapest will carry limitations.

2. Set your budget

Prices vary, but a typical 200m2 room will cost (excluding VAT) about £15.00/m2 for a coating, £28.00/m2 for a 2mm self flow screed, £40.00/m2 for a heavier duty screed. Add demarcation lines, contrasting colours, cove detailing and costs rise again.

3. Price

Get several quotes from reputable contractors. Apply the Goldilocks principle and the price should be just right, not too dear to make you wince and definitely not too cheap so it makes you smile, there's plenty to miss out when laying a floor and time spent or materials used shouldn't be two of them.

4. Hold on to your money

Always pay 4 weeks following completion. If the contractor needs a percentage up front for materials, agree a percentage, but leave the bulk until the job is finished and it's seen some use.

5. Do your homework

Ask to see a reference site, or ask for references. Ask for a written warranty because a good contractor will want to give some assurance that his work will work! We give a years' warranty for a coating and 6 years for a 4mm thick system; other systems fit within this spectrum.

6. Don't try this at home!

Resin flooring is not a DIY or an 'I'll give it a go' activity; unless you have training, please don't use Grinders, Mixers or handle resins; all can cause you, or others around you harm. OK, if your garage at home needs sprucing up, you could try a water based epoxy coating, but this is about the limit and wheeling the mower out once a week is different to a forklift running across the floor every few minutes.

I learned not to fit my own brakes to my car years ago. I leave it to a trusted mechanic, who will do it quicker, he'll do it more safely and he'll not lose too many knuckles whilst doing it. All this and for only a a very reasonable amount more than I could do it for myself.

Getting my trusted mechanic involved also gives me more time to earn my crust understanding what YOU need from a resin floor, so if you need some guidance, I'd be very pleased to help.

Good luck planning your project!