Clear enough floor to inspect it, photograph every zone, document water and contamination, map cracks and joints, define coating boundaries, and confirm access and cure logistics.
Document the current floor
Take wide photos from each corner and close views of cracks, patches, paint, oil, rust, drains, and the threshold. Add a simple sketch with dimensions. Note which stains remain after cleaning and which cracks change with the season.
If an old coating exists, locate peeling and intact areas. The new system may require complete removal even where the old film looks good.
Clear and clean for inspection
Move mats, cardboard, cabinets, appliances, and floor-standing shelves according to the agreed scope. Do not apply silicone, tire shine, wax, or oily products before coating. Tell the estimator about past spills even if the stain looks faint.
Basic sweeping helps inspection, but do not use an unapproved sealer or cleaning treatment that leaves residue.
Map water and movement
Mark low spots after a wet vehicle parks. Identify drains, sump covers, wall seepage, plumbing leaks, and wet cracks. A coating does not correct drainage or active water intrusion.
Separate saw cuts, expansion joints, cracks, and patch edges on the sketch. Ask how each will be treated and how visible it may remain.
Confirm installation logistics
Verify power, lighting, equipment access, material staging, ventilation, alternate parking, house entry, pets, and storage during cure. Request written milestones for foot traffic, heavy items, rolling loads, and vehicles.
For a deeper explanation of substrate work, see concrete preparation and repair.
Common questions
Should I pressure-wash before the installer arrives?
Only if the installer requests it and there is enough time for the slab and surroundings to dry. Unplanned washing can add moisture or move contamination.
Do I need to remove wall shelves?
Wall-mounted storage may remain if it does not block edge tooling or dust control. Floor-standing items usually need to move unless the scope clearly excludes the floor beneath them.
Should I fill cracks myself first?
Usually not. The installer should see the original crack and choose a repair material compatible with the coating and expected movement.
Bring the unanswered items into your inquiry
This guide is a planning aid. Ask the installer to identify the current product requirements, verify the concrete and document any unresolved condition before agreeing to the system. The references below provide context; their requirements apply to their named products or procedures.
Use the moisture-test record checklist, oil-contamination questions, and threshold and drain detail schedule where they match your floor.
References behind this guide
Technical limits apply to the named product or test. Confirm the current requirements for your proposed system.
