At first glance, re-coating a secondary containment area might seem simple. After all, it goes on like paint, right? Not quite. While chemical-resistant coatings may be applied with a roller or brush, they’re far more complex than regular paint. These systems are designed to protect against harsh industrial chemicals and need to be applied with care. Before you decide to self-perform a re-coating job, here are two key factors to consider:
1. What’s the Level of Difficulty?
The scope of the job matters. If you’re just refreshing an existing system — re-applying a compatible primer and topcoat — it might make sense to handle it in-house. With basic surface prep and the right materials, a crew with general maintenance experience can often manage the work.
But things change when the system is new or if the coating requires reinforcement at joints, transitions, or terminations. These steps add complexity and may need a professional contractor’s expertise.
Also consider the type of system:
Grout-based coatings: If your team has experience with grout installation or concrete repair, these may be manageable internally.
Trowel-applied systems with reinforcement layers: These typically require trained applicators and specialty tools. Mistakes here can lead to coating failure and costly rework.
Bottom line: Match the coating system’s demands with your team’s skill set. If you’re unsure, it’s worth bringing in a contractor for at least a consultation.
2. Do You Have the Right Equipment?
Most liquid-applied coatings are mixed using a drill and paddle and applied with rollers or brushes — standard tools for many maintenance crews. But more advanced systems can call for:
- Surface grinders or shot blasters for proper substrate prep
- Heaters or plural-component pumps for specialized formulations
- Coving tools and detail brushes for tight areas or vertical transitions
- Equipment for inter-coat abrasion or timed recoating
Even if you can source the equipment, think about the learning curve and cost. If you’re only doing this once, investing in specialized tools may not make financial sense.
Deciding whether to self-perform a secondary containment re-coat comes down to understanding the system requirements, your crew’s capabilities, and the equipment involved. While some projects can be handled in-house with the right preparation, others may call for experienced professionals to ensure the coating performs as intended. Taking the time to assess these factors up front can save time, reduce risk, and extend the life of the system.
Give us a call at 888-809-2365 if you have any questions about containment coatings or any other maintenance needs. And don’t forget to check out our line sheet to see all we have to offer!
