DIY Driveway Coating: A Brilliant Idea or a Blunder?

In the era of 'Do It Yourself' culture, there's no shortage of home improvement projects to take on. From deck building to kitchen remodels, DIY enthusiasts have their hands full. But what about driveway coating? Is it a good idea? That's the million-dollar question we're diving into today.

DIY driveway coating can indeed be a brilliant idea, especially for those with a hands-on mindset and a desire to save on labor costs. But, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are certain factors to consider before you decide to take the plunge. Let's unravel them!

The Benefits of DIY Driveway Coating

Cost Savings: Cutting Out the Middleman

One of the primary reasons homeowners take on the task of driveway coating is to save money. Hiring professionals can leave a hefty dent in your pocket while doing it yourself slashes labor costs. With the right tools and materials, you can achieve an aesthetically pleasing and durable result without breaking the bank.

Satisfaction of a Job Well Done

There's a sense of satisfaction that comes from completing a project with your own two hands. Seeing your driveway transform under your careful attention can be fulfilling. Plus, you're in total control, ensuring the job is done to your exact specifications.

The Cons of DIY Driveway Coating

Time and Effort: Is It Worth It?

While DIY driveway coating can save money, it can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Without prior experience, the task might turn out more complicated than you anticipated. You might need to ask yourself whether the time and effort are worth the potential savings.

Risk of Mistakes

A risk associated with any DIY project is the possibility of mistakes. These could range from choosing the wrong coating material to applying it incorrectly, leading to less durability and more frequent maintenance. Hiring a professional reduces this risk.

We strongly recommend always going to a professional contractor to do this kind of work inside your home, that way you will be actually saving money in the long run. But every decision is important and if you would like to do it yourself, we are going to give you a few tips to get it right with the least possible mistakes.

The ABCs of DIY Driveway Coating

Choosing the Right Coating Material

There are various types of driveway coatings available, including acrylic, epoxy, and polyurea. Each has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on factors such as climate, your driveway's material, and your budget.

The Prep Work

Before applying the coating, your driveway needs to be properly cleaned and prepped. This includes removing dirt, grease, and existing loose material, filling cracks, and priming the surface.

Application

The coating is then applied evenly using a roller or sprayer, ensuring no areas are missed. It's important to apply the right amount of coating – too thin, and it won't provide enough protection; too thick, and it might crack or peel.

Curing Time

After application, the coating needs time to dry and cure. This could take anywhere from 24 hours to several days, depending on the type of coating and weather conditions. During this time, the driveway should not be used.

Deciding whether DIY driveway coating is a good idea largely depends on your personal circumstances. If you're handy and enjoy a good DIY project, have the time to devote, and want to save money, it might be right up your alley. However, if you're short on time, lack experience, or want a guaranteed professional finish, hiring a pro might be the better route. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. It's about what works best for you and your driveway.

We understand that for most homeowners, it is very difficult to complete a DIY project for your driveway because of all the hard work and timing it requires. When you're in the market for a professional driveway coating installation, Steve Holloway Painting is your go-to concrete coating contracto r.

With years of experience under our belt, our team has mastered the art of concrete coating and established a reputation for excellence in the industry. So, when pondering if a DIY driveway coating is a good idea, remember the alternative - a professional, reliable, and top-quality service is just a call away with Steve Holloway Painting. Contact us today to get a free quote for your driveway coatings project.

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From Storage to Showroom: Garage Floor Painting for Car Lovers

By Dewey Ynot • April 14, 2025

You don’t need a luxury car to deserve a luxury garage. If you’re tired of staring at oil stains, peeling concrete, and a dusty floor every time you park, it might be time to upgrade—with help from a professional garage floor painter. For Bakersfield car lovers (and everyday drivers), your garage doesn’t have to be the most ignored room in your house. In fact, with the right paint system, it can become one of the most impressive. Why Garage Floor Painting Is Worth It Whether you use your garage to wrench on weekend projects, store your gear, or just keep the car safe from the sun, the floor matters. A painted garage floor: Resists oil, gas, and chemical stains Is easier to sweep and clean Reduces dust from bare concrete Looks sharp—and adds value And unlike a simple coat of paint from the hardware store, a professional application actually bonds to the concrete, helping it last for years. DIY vs. Professional Garage Floor Painter Sure, you could grab a kit from the store—but DIY garage floor painting rarely lasts. Most of these kits don’t include proper surface prep, and they fail to account for Bakersfield’s dry heat and seasonal temperature swings. A pro garage floor painter will: Repair cracks and grind the surface for bonding Use industrial-grade coatings designed to withstand real wear Apply flake, solid, or custom finishes based on how you use the space Seal everything for extra durability In short: no peeling, bubbling, or flaking six months down the road. Design the Garage You Deserve You’ve invested in your car—why not invest in where you keep it? Whether you want a classic gray flake finish, a bold high-gloss look, or something that matches your home gym or man cave setup, we’ve got options: Polished home showrooms for car collections Clean workspaces for tools and hobbies Mud-free storage areas that don’t feel like an afterthought And yes, they look amazing in listing photos if you ever sell your home. Upgrade Your Garage Without Breaking the Bank At Steve Holloway Painting, we help Bakersfield homeowners turn basic garages into bold, functional spaces with long-lasting, professional floor painting services. Call today for a free estimate with a trusted Bakersfield garage floor painter. You’ll love walking into your garage just as much as you love driving out!

The Hidden Costs of a Cheap Painting Job in Bakersfield

By Dewey Ynot • March 14, 2025

A fresh coat of paint might seem like a simple upgrade—but if you’ve ever dealt with peeling walls, uneven color, or poor prep work, you know how fast a “cheap” painting job turns into an expensive headache. If you're a homeowner in Bakersfield looking for a reliable painting contractor, here’s what to know before you go with the lowest bidder. 1. Poor Prep = Shorter Lifespan The difference between a $500 job and a $2,500 job? Often, it's what you can’t see—like surface preparation. A professional Bakersfield painting contractor knows that sanding, patching, caulking, and priming are what help paint adhere and last. Skip that step, and you’ll be repainting in a year. 2. Bargain Paint Means More Coats Later Cheap contractors often cut costs by using low-grade paint. That leads to poor coverage, meaning more coats (and more money) when it starts to fade or peel. Top-quality paint might cost more upfront, but it lasts longer and holds up better in Bakersfield’s hot summers and dry winters. 3. No Insurance? You’re on the Hook If your contractor isn’t licensed and insured, any damage or accidents on your property become your responsibility. Hiring a trusted Bakersfield painting contractor means you're covered, protected, and working with professionals—not someone with a van and a ladder. 4. Flaky Schedules, Rushed Work Cheap jobs are often crammed into tight schedules. That means rushed work, skipped details, and painters who don’t show up on time—or at all. A reputable contractor values your time and your home, treating your project with care from start to finish. 5. Do-Overs Cost More Than Doing It Right the First Time The money you save going cheap? You’ll likely spend it (and then some) fixing mistakes. Whether it’s repainting, removing drips, or addressing damage to your walls, the costs stack up. Do it right the first time with a team that stands behind their work. Bakersfield Homeowners Deserve Better At Steve Holloway Painting , we’ve been serving the Bakersfield area for over 40 years. We believe in honest quotes, high-quality materials, and results that last for years—not just until the next rainstorm. Don’t let a low price lead to high stress. FAQ: Hiring a Bakersfield Painting Contractor Q: How do I know if a painting contractor in Bakersfield is licensed and insured? A: Always ask to see a copy of the contractor’s license and insurance certificate. You can also check with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) to verify their credentials. Q: What kind of paint should I use for Bakersfield’s climate? A: For exterior jobs, you’ll want a high-quality, UV-resistant paint that can handle Bakersfield’s heat and sun exposure. Interior paints should be low-VOC and durable for high-traffic areas. Q: How long should a professional paint job last? A: When done properly with good prep and quality materials, an interior paint job should last 5–10 years. Exterior work varies, but in Bakersfield, you can expect 7–10 years depending on exposure and maintenance. Q: What’s the average cost to hire a painting contractor in Bakersfield? A: Prices can vary based on the size and complexity of the project, but quality work typically ranges from $2 to $6 per square foot. Always get a detailed estimate that includes prep work, materials, and cleanup. Q: Can I stay in my home during the painting process? A: Yes, in most cases you can stay at home. We work to minimize disruption and keep areas clean and ventilated. For larger projects or strong odors, you might prefer to step out during key stages.