Shark Coatings: Revolutionizing Concrete with Speed, Durability, and Innovation

Shark Coatings was born in the early months of 2020, as the world faced unprecedented uncertainty. Jay and Rick Mariano, veterans of the coatings industry, had spent years perfecting their craft and searching for a product that met their high standards of quality and performance. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they decided to launch Shark Coatings, despite the economic challenges. “We didn’t know what to expect,” Rick recalls. “It was a scary time to start a business, but we believed in the product and our vision.”

The company quickly gained traction, growing from one trailer to seven by the end of 2020. Today, Shark Coatings operates 47 trailers across Florida, a testament to their innovative approach and customer-first mentality.

A Team Culture That Changes Lives

At Shark Coatings, the team culture is one of camaraderie, growth, and mutual respect. Jay and Rick emphasize the importance of their workforce in the company’s success. “We have the best product, but it wouldn’t mean anything without our team,” Jay explains. The company’s commitment to training and development is unmatched, with installers receiving up to 400 hours of experience before working independently.

Rick adds, “Our crews are passionate about what they do, and that pride shows in every job. Around here, we say, ‘Shark changes lives,’ and that’s something we live by every day.” This positive culture extends to their customers, creating lasting relationships built on trust and quality service.

Innovating the Coatings Industry

Shark Coatings sets itself apart with a proprietary coating solution that offers unmatched durability and speed. Unlike traditional epoxy coatings, which require up to six days to cure, Shark Coatings’ products are installed and fully functional within 24 hours. Their seamless, antimicrobial surfaces are perfect for garages, patios, warehouses, and even specialized spaces like veterinary clinics and restaurants. “We transform spaces with coatings that are not only beautiful but also functional and easy to maintain,” Jay shares.

Customization is another hallmark of Shark Coatings. With over 23 standard colors and countless customization options, customers can match any aesthetic, including logos and unique designs. From residential garages to 100,000-square-foot warehouses, Shark Coatings delivers exceptional results tailored to each client’s needs.

Overcoming Challenges:

Starting a business in the early days of the pandemic came with significant challenges, from economic uncertainty to navigating supply chain disruptions. However, Jay and Rick saw an opportunity to meet the growing demand for home improvements. “People were spending more time at home, and they wanted to make better use of their spaces,” Jay explains. Shark Coatings helped homeowners transform garages into gyms, home offices, and even hair salons, showcasing the versatility of their product.

Their dedication to quality and efficiency also helped them stand out in a crowded market. “Over 60% of our jobs are redoing floors that other companies installed poorly,” Rick notes. “We pride ourselves on doing it right the first time.”

What it means to be and Honoree

Being recognized as a GrowFL honoree is a meaningful achievement for Shark Coatings. “It’s an honor to be acknowledged for what we’ve built in just four years,” Rick says. Jay adds, “This award is a testament to our team’s hard work and the trust our customers place in us.” For Shark Coatings, the recognition highlights their rapid growth and commitment to excellence.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Jay and Rick Mariano emphasize the importance of building a strong team and creating a supportive work environment. Their advice is simple yet impactful: “Open a business, hire great people, treat them well, and help them succeed. Good things will happen as a result.” They believe that the success of any business starts with its people. By investing in their team’s growth and fostering a positive culture, Jay and Rick have created a company where employees feel empowered and valued, enabling Shark Coatings to thrive.

Notable Community Involvement:

Shark Coatings is committed to giving back to the community, from supporting local schools and sports teams to hiring and training individuals with no prior industry experience. Their dedication to workforce development includes a week-long intensive training program, providing employees with the skills to build fulfilling careers. “We believe in investing in people and creating opportunities,” Jay says. This commitment extends to customers, offering affordable, long-lasting solutions that add value to their homes and businesses.