Given that the garage is typically the largest room in the house, investing in a high-quality epoxy coating for the floor is a no-brainer compared to other home improvement tasks. It’s also the first place most people see after a hard day at the office. The option to upgrade your garage with a colourful floor that preserves your concrete investment and is easy to clean is a no-brainer.
An epoxy garage floor coating is the perfect way to modernise your garage while also protecting the concrete flooring from wear and tear. The total amount spent on such endeavours differs greatly depending on location and the chosen flooring material. Most homeowners will fall somewhere in the middle, and this range will be set by factors like the complexity of concrete preparation, the quality and amount of products required to create the ideal floor for your purposes, and the scope of the garage renovation.
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WHAT IS GARAGE FLOOR EPOXY?
Let’s start by addressing any remaining confusion surrounding epoxy. Epoxy flooring in a garage eliminates the need for painting. Garage flooring are best painted with latex acrylic paint. Some paints have epoxy added to them to boost durability, but even after that, it’s still paint. One kind of epoxy paint is known as 1-part epoxy paint.
When applied as a coating, epoxy is a true thermosetting resin. Produced by mixing epoxide resin and polyamine hardener in a 1 to 1 ratio. The addition of a hardener to epoxy serves as a catalyst, increasing the strength of the epoxy.
However, epoxy cures rather than dries. The chemical reaction between the two components initiates the curing process, which produces heat. Epoxy’s superior strength and durability come from the strongly cross-linked polymer structures that form during curing. The final coating is extremely durable and stays put on a smooth, clean surface far better than paint would.
BENEFITS OF A GARAGE FLOOR EPOXY COATING
The advantages of epoxy coating as a garage floor coating are discussed. Because of its rigidity and thickness, epoxy produces a coating that is not only aesthetically beautiful but also highly resistant to impacts, chipping, chemicals, stains, and abrasion. Nothing will happen to the floor if you accidentally drop a tool or if your bike falls over.
Spider cracks and other minor imperfections in the concrete’s surface can also be obscured by a generously thick coating. Because of its nature as a sealant, epoxy keeps dirt and debris out of sealed areas. The cement powder that is constantly being released into the air is the primary cause of the dust that accumulates in a garage. Regular foot traffic on bare concrete generates fine powder that can settle on vehicles, workbenches, storage places, and even be transported indoors on one’s shoes.
Because it is a topcoat, it naturally resists moisture. For those who must live through snowy winters, this is a lifesaver. Simpler removal of frozen brines and road salts that can build up on the floor in the winter is achieved. It’s sufficient to just wash with water and a small amount of mild soap. Floors can be swept clean of dust and debris with a dust mop or a soft broom once they have dried.
When wet, some surfaces can be quite risky to walk on. This is especially true of those with colourful acrylic flakes on the floor or those with a subpar topcoat. Most people do not have to worry about this because they reside in drier climates. To form a non-skid surface, however, slip-resistant aggregate can be applied to the top layer.
Both experts and do-it-yourselfers in the auto repair industry have nothing but praise for epoxy coatings. Because it is chemically and stain resistant, it is easy and safe to wipe away oil, brake fluids, anti-freeze, gasoline, and other caustic car chemicals, even if they have been sitting for a while. Tools, jacks, and jack stands on wheels will not damage the floor, either. Garages can be made much more light-filled, depending on the type of finish chosen.
This garage flooring type is quite long-lasting, although it is not completely stain-proof. Epoxy can get burned by welding slag, which can ruin the material. The garage floor can get wet, making this a poor choice. Epoxy may delaminate if moisture vapour transport from under the slab is excessive.
When discussing the pros and downsides of installing an epoxy garage floor, the topic of hot tyre pick up often comes up. This occurs because low-quality coatings might soften when subjected to the heat generated by the tyres of your vehicle. When tyres cool down and contract after a drive, the tread grabs hold of the still-flexible outer layer and pulls. The upward force of the tyre will cause the epoxy to delaminate as it is raised off the ground.
Hot tyre pick-up is more likely to occur with low-quality materials, such as those used in commercial epoxy paint kits. These coatings are typically water-based with a solids concentration of no more than 50% and a thickness of 3 mils (as opposed to 100% solids epoxy, which can be 10 mils or more). Coatings this thick are rare and usually only seen on expensive retail items or those that have been expertly applied.
Due to the increased longevity of thicker, multi-coat epoxy flooring, many manufacturers provide lifetime warranties against defects in the product. Similarly, 15-year or longer warranties for installation by experienced installers are becoming standard.
What are the Pros and Cons of Epoxy Floor?
Pros of Epoxy Floors:
Appearance
Epoxy flooring are bright and professional looking, especially when compared to a standard garage floor. The way they look alone already makes them desirable to use. The uniform and easy-to-clean surface is another major plus. Since very little will stick to this flooring, messes can be quickly and easily wiped away.
Affordability
When comparing cost per square foot, epoxy floors are hard to beat. Its much reduced installation costs are a result of the fact that it may be laid directly over existing flooring, including concrete. Epoxy flooring’s low price is still one of its most prominent and noticeable benefits.
Resistance
There aren’t many substances that can damage an epoxy floor; the material is impervious to oil, gasoline, bleach, transmission fluid, cleaners, and more. This is one of the key reasons they see so much use in car shops and garages. Epoxy floor coating is resistant to both heat and water, as well as chemical spills and cleansers. They are very resistant to chemical spills without damaging the coating.
As an added bonus, these flooring are resistant to bacteria and germs, making them simple to clean and maintain. For this reason, epoxy is a great material for use in medical facilities.
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Durability
Epoxy floors are highly regarded since they last far longer than other flooring options. If properly sealed and maintained, concrete is the only material that can compete. Additionally, concrete subflooring was necessary for an epoxy floor covering. Epoxy coatings for floors greatly increase concrete’s longevity. They have anti-fatigue properties and can be rolled out on the cement with no need for mortar or glue. Epoxy resins for wood-on-wood improvements may be considered if you want to take extra care of your floors.
Protective
Epoxy flooring shields the concrete below from water damage, stains, oil, and cracks. Considering the time and effort saved by never having to clean carpet or grout again, this can be a huge money saver over time. When compared to the length and depth of coverage it provides, the pricing is likewise extremely fair.
However, the installer makes all the difference in how durable an epoxy floor is. Find a reliable epoxy floor installer in your area. If you’re worried about this, you can find epoxy flooring close to me.
Longevity
When compared to other flooring materials, epoxy coatings stand the test of time. Given proper installation, it might last for decades without cracking or flaking. One of the major reasons for its widespread use in business and industry is its durability.
Variety
Decorating your flooring with epoxy is a fantastic idea. It comes in a number of different colours, each of which lends a polished, sophisticated sheen. The floor tiles can be laid out in any number of unique configurations. There are a wide variety of options available, making it a cost-effective strategy for transforming the aesthetics of otherwise boring concrete surfaces at home or in the workplace.
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Safety
Epoxy has many uses, one of which is to increase visibility within a garage by reflecting light around the space.
Slipping, temperature changes, high impact, and even fire are no match for an epoxy floor. What this implies is that your home is secure for your family no matter what kind of work is being done in the garage.
Warranty
DIY kits and cheap paint from the hardware store aren’t covered by any sort of guarantee in case of defects. Boston Garage is a trustworthy organisation that will secure your investment for five years against issues like delamination, discoloration, and material problems.
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Cons of Epoxy Floors:
Temporary
Epoxy has a number of drawbacks, one of which is that it is only a short-term answer to your flooring needs. It may last a long time and be resistant to damage, but ultimately you will need to replace it. Epoxy floors, unlike some other flooring systems, degrade over time due to normal use. You should apply a new layer of epoxy every so often to keep things looking nice. The dropping of heavy objects on the floor’s surface will inevitably cause this.
It’s not uncommon for surfaces to break or chip. When first introduced, thought chips may only cause mild disruption. They can cause the floor’s coat to peel in significant sections over time. The wheels of rolling carts and toolboxes also become trapped when they pass over the damaged area. This necessitates floor maintenance.
Slippery
Epoxy flooring is not easily damaged by slipping. There are some places where this defect is not present. The only type of epoxy that needs this treatment is oil-covered epoxy, which can be dangerously slippery. However, when wet, they become extremely hazardous due to their slick nature. They shouldn’t be used somewhere there’s a high chance of spills or water getting on the floor. Again, this is a negative aspect. This danger, however, can be reduced by texturizing your floor at least partially.
Preparation
Preparing the flooring for Epoxy coating is a time-consuming process. A lot of work goes into it as well. Before the epoxy coating can be placed, the concrete floor must be completely dry and free of any grease, oil, or solvents. Filling the cracks is also necessary. It usually takes several tries to get concrete floors clean. The need for so much prior labour is a disadvantage.
The good news is that technological and manufacturing advances have made it simple for homeowners to apply themselves using common equipment and in a short length of time.
Application
It takes a lot of time to apply the epoxy coating, and that’s not counting the time it takes to get the concrete ready. In addition, a sufficient drying time of several days is required. Epoxy must also be allowed to dry completely between coats.
Smell
Toxic vapours can be released from wet epoxy. Epoxies with deeper tones contain more hardeners. When first applied, they have a pungent ammonia odour.
Sensitivity
It’s crucial to follow the steps in the manual while installing an epoxy floor. The floor will not hold up as well as it should if installation is rushed. Furthermore, the covering is readily damaged. Attempts to remove paint overspray from it have been met with little success. For best results, apply the coating only during the dry season. This is because these floors aren’t as durable if they get wet.
Before applying the first layer of resin, it is recommended to use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity for at least 24 hours. This will remove as much moisture from the air as possible before applying the resin finish, which will prevent moisture from becoming trapped under the floor.
Adherence
Avoiding adhesion problems with epoxy requires carefully drying, prepping, and cleaning the concrete floor. Epoxy has poor adhesion in damp places like basements. When applied in a humid setting over a damp surface, epoxy paint rips off the floors.
Moisture
Once the material cures, it won’t allow air to circulate through it, so any moisture that gets trapped underneath the surface can cause problems when it evaporates. Bubbles or buckles might form in the flooring material, necessitating repairs or a refinishing job down the road.
Additional Costs
In order for the epoxy to adhere properly, homeowners must invest in specialised cleaning acids and other solutions. In addition to buying and wearing protective clothing, eyewear, and breathing apparatuses, working with these substances requires special safety equipment. This not only adds to the time and energy required, but can also drive up prices in some situations.
Removal
Once the epoxy has been placed, making any changes to the colour scheme or design can be a time-consuming and expensive process. When the floor needs fixing, it’s a major hassle to have to remove the coating first.
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HOW GARAGE FLOOR EPOXY IS APPLIED
In order to have a successful coating of epoxy on garage floors, proper floor preparation is essential. To prepare the concrete for the epoxy, the floor is typically profiled through grinding, shot blasting, or acid etching. Failure to adhere properly will result in a poor epoxy coating. Before applying the epoxy, any cracks or other damage to the concrete must be patched or repaired.
Multiple coats are typically used in high-quality epoxy floor systems to create a covering that is extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear. Epoxy primer is often used as the initial step.
A plan for an epoxy flooring system
Adherence to the concrete is crucial for the success of succeeding layers, and the primer is what accomplishes this. When applied to cement floors that are especially vulnerable to moisture vapour rising from the earth through the concrete to the surface, some primers will also act as a moisture barrier.
The following step is to apply the colour coat, often known as the base coat. Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, this may be used without a primer. Colored acrylic paint chips can be added to this coat for depth and texture if desired. A transparent topcoat is applied as the final step. It’s because of this that the finish on these floors is so glossy and rich in colour and texture.
A system with a polyurethane finish is one possibility. Exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, epoxy will turn yellow or amber as it is known in the industry. Similarly to epoxy, polyurethane is a two-component polymer that dries to form a protective seal. Incorporating epoxy into the colour coat and topcoat makes them more resistant to the yellowing that occurs when exposed to sunlight.
In sum, epoxy’s many positive properties make it a viable option for both domestic and industrial applications. Epoxy has many desirable qualities: it is cheap, easy to clean, and long-lasting. Because of the flexibility of epoxy floor coatings, the design options are virtually limitless. However, epoxy can be tricky to work with and even dangerous in the wrong hands, so taking the right precautions is essential for getting good results. Finally, epoxy is generally durable, but it can chip from hard impacts and turn yellow when exposed to UV light. Get in touch with us right away if you have any inquiries or are thinking about getting a concrete coating installed in your house. We’re happy to discuss your options with you and provide guidance as you make a choice.
Conclusion
An epoxy garage floor coating is the perfect way to modernise your garage. It protects the concrete from wear and tear and eliminates the need for painting. The final coating is extremely durable and stays put on a smooth, clean surface far better than paint would – epoxy cures rather than dries. Epoxy coating is highly resistant to impacts, chipping, chemicals, stains, and abrasion. Garages can be made much more light-filled, depending on the type of finish chosen.
Easy and safe removal of frozen brines and road salts that can build up on the floor in the winter is achieved. Epoxy flooring may cause hot tyre pick-up. When tyres cool down and contract after a drive, the tread grabs hold of the still-flexible outer layer and pulls. The upward force of the tyre will cause the epoxy to delaminate as it is raised off the ground. Epoxy floors are highly regarded since they last far longer than other flooring options.
Given proper installation, it might last for decades without cracking or flaking. There are a wide variety of options available, making it a cost-effective strategy for transforming the aesthetics of otherwise boring concrete surfaces. Epoxy floors degrade over time due to normal use. You should apply a new layer of epoxy every so often to keep things looking nice. Boston Garage is a trustworthy organisation that will secure your investment for five years against issues like delamination, discoloration, and material problems.
It’s crucial to follow the steps in the manual while installing an epoxy floor. Epoxy has poor adhesion in damp places like basements. When applied in a humid setting over a damp surface, epoxy paint rips off the floors. Bubbles or buckles might form in the flooring, requiring repairs. Multiple coats are typically used in high-quality epoxy floor systems to create a covering that is extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear.
To prepare the concrete for the epoxy, the floor is typically profiled through grinding, shot blasting, or acid etching. Epoxy has many desirable qualities: it is cheap, easy to clean, and long-lasting. Exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, epoxy will turn yellow or amber as it is known in the industry. It can chip from hard impacts and turn yellow when exposed to UV light.
Content Summary
- Given that the garage is typically the largest room in the house, investing in a high-quality epoxy coating for the floor is a no-brainer compared to other home improvement tasks.
- The option to upgrade your garage with a colourful floor that preserves your concrete investment and is easy to clean is a no-brainer.
- An epoxy garage floor coating is the perfect way to modernise your garage while also protecting the concrete flooring from wear and tear.
- Speak to us if you’re looking for premium garage storage solutions in Sydney.
- Epoxy flooring in a garage eliminates the need for painting.
- Garage flooring are best painted with latex acrylic paint.
- One kind of epoxy paint is known as 1-part epoxy paint.
- The advantages of epoxy coating as a garage floor coating are discussed.
- Because of its rigidity and thickness, epoxy produces a coating that is not only aesthetically beautiful but also highly resistant to impacts, chipping, chemicals, stains, and abrasion.
- Spider cracks and other minor imperfections in the concrete’s surface can also be obscured by a generously thick coating.
- Because of its nature as a sealant, epoxy keeps dirt and debris out of sealed areas.
- Because it is a topcoat, it naturally resists moisture.
- Simpler removal of frozen brines and road salts that can build up on the floor in the winter is achieved.
- Floors can be swept clean of dust and debris with a dust mop or a soft broom once they have dried.
- Both experts and do-it-yourselfers in the auto repair industry have nothing but praise for epoxy coatings.
- Because it is chemically and stain resistant, it is easy and safe to wipe away oil, brake fluids, anti-freeze, gasoline, and other caustic car chemicals, even if they have been sitting for a while.
- Garages can be made much more light-filled, depending on the type of finish chosen.
- When discussing the pros and downsides of installing an epoxy garage floor, the topic of hot tyre pick up often comes up.
- This occurs because low-quality coatings might soften when subjected to the heat generated by the tyres of your vehicle.
- Hot tyre pick-up is more likely to occur with low-quality materials, such as those used in commercial epoxy paint kits.
- What are the Pros and Cons of Epoxy Floor?Pros of Epoxy Floors: AppearanceEpoxy flooring are bright and professional looking, especially when compared to a standard garage floor.
- Epoxy floor coating is resistant to both heat and water, as well as chemical spills and cleansers.
- With the modern look, a storage solution from Garage Smart Solutions can transform your garage into a social focal point for visitors.
- Additionally, concrete subflooring was necessary for an epoxy floor covering.
- Epoxy coatings for floors greatly increase concrete’s longevity.
- However, the installer makes all the difference in how durable an epoxy floor is.
- Find a reliable epoxy floor installer in your area.
- LongevityWhen compared to other flooring materials, epoxy coatings stand the test of time.
- VarietyDecorating your flooring with epoxy is a fantastic idea.
- Speak to us if you’re looking for elite garage storage solutions in Australia.
- Boston Garage is a trustworthy organisation that will secure your investment for five years against issues like delamination, discoloration, and material problems.
- We offer an extensive professional organising and declutter service for your garage.
- Cons of Epoxy Floors: TemporaryEpoxy has a number of drawbacks, one of which is that it is only a short-term answer to your flooring needs.
- Epoxy floors, unlike some other flooring systems, degrade over time due to normal use.
- The dropping of heavy objects on the floor’s surface will inevitably cause this.
- This necessitates floor maintenance.
- PreparationPreparing the flooring for Epoxy coating is a time-consuming process.
- Before the epoxy coating can be placed, the concrete floor must be completely dry and free of any grease, oil, or solvents.
- It takes a lot of time to apply the epoxy coating, and that’s not counting the time it takes to get the concrete ready.
- In addition, a sufficient drying time of several days is required.
- SensitivityIt’s crucial to follow the steps in the manual while installing an epoxy floor.
- For best results, apply the coating only during the dry season.
- Before applying the first layer of resin, it is recommended to use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity for at least 24 hours.
- AdherenceAvoiding adhesion problems with epoxy requires carefully drying, prepping, and cleaning the concrete floor.
- Epoxy has poor adhesion in damp places like basements.
- When applied in a humid setting over a damp surface, epoxy paint rips off the floors.
- Additional CostsIn order for the epoxy to adhere properly, homeowners must invest in specialised cleaning acids and other solutions.
- In order to have a successful coating of epoxy on garage floors, proper floor preparation is essential.
- To prepare the concrete for the epoxy, the floor is typically profiled through grinding, shot blasting, or acid etching.
- Before applying the epoxy, any cracks or other damage to the concrete must be patched or repaired.
- Epoxy primer is often used as the initial step.
- A plan for an epoxy flooring systemAdherence to the concrete is crucial for the success of succeeding layers, and the primer is what accomplishes this.
- The following step is to apply the colour coat, often known as the base coat.
- Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, this may be used without a primer.
- A transparent topcoat is applied as the final step.
- It’s because of this that the finish on these floors is so glossy and rich in colour and texture.
- A system with a polyurethane finish is one possibility.
- Exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, epoxy will turn yellow or amber as it is known in the industry.
- Incorporating epoxy into the colour coat and topcoat makes them more resistant to the yellowing that occurs when exposed to sunlight.
- In sum, epoxy’s many positive properties make it a viable option for both domestic and industrial applications.
- Because of the flexibility of epoxy floor coatings, the design options are virtually limitless.
- Get in touch with us right away if you have any inquiries or are thinking about getting a concrete coating installed in your house.
FAQs About Garage Epoxy
How long does epoxy last in garage?
A well maintained epoxy garage floor coating can last anywhere from two to ten years, depending on the additives used in the coating, the amount of foot activity, drop impact, vehicle wear, and other factors.
How long does a garage floor coated with epoxy resin last?
With regular care and touch-ups, an epoxy floor has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. There will be no hassle involved in removing the old flooring or disposing of it when the time comes to replace it.
How long does garage epoxy need to dry?
The epoxy floor coating needs at least seven days to cure at 77° F or warmer, and at least 10 days to cure if the temperature drops below that. Until the surface has completely cured, hot tyres should not be driven on it.
Can a scratch be seen on an epoxy floor?
The hard resin covering of epoxy flooring makes it resistant to scratches, but if anything sharp enough damages the surface, a scratch will form (as it would on any surface).
What should I do to keep the garage floor epoxy in good condition?
Water, ice, snow, and dirt won’t be able to stick to your epoxy floor if you have walk-off mats set up. Put a mat at the door of each room so that guests can clean their feet before entering. Just a simple doormat would do.