With so many types of garage floor coating products on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your garage. If you spend a good deal of time working in your garage and appreciate a professional appearance, or you simply want your garage to look and feel clean, epoxy might be the perfect solution.
Why Should I Apply Epoxy?
Epoxy coatings are commonly used on garage floors due to is incredible durability. It also protects against stains and moisture, so it’s easy to keep your floor clean. Since epoxy is so strong and thick, it doesn’t chip as easily as concrete, and it withstands chemical, oil, and other fluid spills.
A few more benefits of epoxy include:
- Protection of abrasion and impact
- An optional non-slip texture for increased safety and functionality
- A wide selection of styles to create a unique floor
- Simple upkeep and minimal maintenance
- Increased property value
Should I Apply Epoxy Myself or Go with the Pros?
Even experienced DIYers find the epoxy application process challenging. First, the flooring must be prepared in advance, and cracks or damaged areas need to be sealed or fixed. This essential process requires special equipment that the average homeowner might not have, and the epoxy may not adhere correctly if the area is not prepared adequately.
Secondly, epoxy doesn’t work on all types of concrete. If you aren’t sure what type of concrete you have, your floor has been previously sealed, or moisture is coming up through your floor, you shouldn’t apply epoxy. You can epoxy a painted floor, however, you’ll need to remove the paint before the epoxy is applied.
Regardless of whether you choose to DIY or hire a company that specializes in residential floor coatings in KC, you’ll still need to clean out your garage. The project could last up to five days, so you will need a place to store your belongings during the application and curing process. You also have to wait for a warm, dry day with temperatures between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit to apply the coating.
If you decide to apply the epoxy yourself, the next step is to thoroughly clean your garage floor. Stains and debris can be removed using concrete cleaner but should be vacuumed up to ensure that the product doesn’t get into the sewer. After vacuuming, spray out the garage with a hose and carefully apply an acid/water solution following all safety precautions. Finally, rinse the floor again and let it dry overnight.
Once your floor is ready, you can start applying the epoxy. You’ll need to choose between the three main types of epoxy—solid, water-based, and solvent-based—and apply two coats. Be sure to use safety gear such as gloves, boot, goggles, and a respirator, and follow all of the instructions precisely.
If you would rather leave an epoxy application to the pros, reach out to the team at ETEK Custom Coatings. We’re happy to enhance the style, comfort, and value of your garage! Give us a call today to learn more about our premier garage floor coating company in Kansas City and our innovative floor coating systems. You can also use our convenient online form now to request a free, in-home project estimate.
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