How to Choose the Right Concrete Expert for Your Project in Centerville and the Miami Valley
Choosing the right contractor can make or break your concrete flooring project. Whether you’re upgrading a garage, finishing a basement, or outfitting a commercial space, working with an experienced, reliable professional ensures your investment lasts – and looks great.
At Select Flooring Systems, we’ve worked with hundreds of clients across Centerville, Dayton, and the Miami Valley, and one thing remains true: informed clients make better decisions. Before you hire a flooring contractor, here are five essential questions to ask, along with red flags to avoid.
1. What Experience Do You Have With My Type of Project?
Not all concrete contractors are created equal. Someone who installs driveways may not have the tools, materials, or skillset to handle a garage epoxy system, polished commercial floor, or decorative stamped patio.
Ask about:
- Specific project types (garage, retail, basement, outdoor)
- Experience with epoxy, polyaspartic, stained, or polished finishes
- Before/after photos or project references
Why does it matter? A seasoned contractor can anticipate challenges and deliver a higher-quality result.
2. What Is Your Surface Preparation Process?
Proper surface prep is critical. Even the best coating will fail if the concrete isn’t correctly profiled, cleaned, and tested for moisture. Cutting corners here leads to peeling, bubbling, or early system failure.
Make sure your contractor:
- Uses mechanical grinding or shot blasting (not just acid etching)
- Repairs cracks and joints prior to coating
- Performs moisture testing when needed
If they skip over surface prep or can’t clearly explain their method, it’s a red flag.
Want a deeper look at what quality prep looks like? Just ask – we’re happy to walk you through our process.
3. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?
This one’s non-negotiable. Your contractor should have general liability insurance, workers’ comp coverage, and be bonded in accordance with Ohio regulations.
Why it matters:
- Protects you in case of jobsite injury
- Covers accidental damage to your property
- Demonstrates professionalism and accountability
You should feel confident asking for proof of insurance and licensing. A reputable contractor won’t hesitate to provide it.
4. What Materials and Products Do You Use?
High-quality results start with high-quality materials. Ask your contractor what brands and systems they use – and whether they’re appropriate for your project’s needs.
For example:
- Does the system include a topcoat for UV resistance and durability?
- Are the products rated for residential or commercial use?
- Can they explain the benefits of epoxy vs polyaspartic vs polished concrete?
Low-cost contractors often use off-brand or watered-down products. At Select Flooring Systems, we work with trusted manufacturers and tailor every system to the use-case and environment.
5. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee?
A good contractor stands behind their work. Ask if they offer a workmanship guarantee or product warranty – and what it covers.
You want clear expectations around:
- Lifespan of the finish
- Wear-and-tear coverage
- What’s included in maintenance or repair, if needed
Keep in mind: A warranty is only as reliable as the company offering it. That’s why working with a local contractor with a strong track record (and roots in your community) provides added peace of mind.
Related read: Understanding the Role of a Flooring General Contractor in Ohio
Where to Start Your Search
When researching concrete contractors, look for reviews, local experience, and professional affiliations. The Ohio Concrete Association is a great resource for best practices and certification programs that help maintain high industry standards.
Why Select Flooring Systems?
We’ve proudly served Centerville, Dayton, Springboro, and the surrounding Miami Valley for over 20 years. Our team brings craftsmanship, transparency, and industry-leading materials to every job. No shortcuts. No guessing games. Just high-performance floors done right.
When you choose Select, you get:
- Local expertise with a strong community reputation
- Professional prep and installation
- A clear, proven process from quote to completion
Ask Us Your Questions – We’re Ready
Whether you’re planning a spring garage makeover or upgrading a commercial facility, we’re happy to answer your questions and walk you through your options.
📞 Contact Select Flooring Systems today to schedule your free consultation. Let’s build something solid – starting from the ground up.

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