A home garages helps store vehicles and other heavy equipment. However, with continued use, your floor can tear and wear, hence the need for extra protection. You can protect the floor by coating it with epoxy, a chemical element that offers a smooth, durable, and highly effective surface. However, you should apply the coating like a pro for an excellent finish. Below are great steps that come in handy for a perfect job.
- Prep the surface
To apply your garage floor epoxy, thoroughly clean and prepare the garage floor. Remove dirt, grease, or other contaminants with a degreaser and a stiff-bristled brush. Additionally, rinse it and allow it to dry.
- Repair Any cracks
If there are any cracks in the floor, use a concrete repair kit to patch them up. Cracks can lead to uneven finishes; thus, ensure you repair all before you apply floor epoxy.
- Etch the surface
An etching solution creates a rough surface to help the epoxy adhere to the floor. Mix the solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions, apply it to the floor, and scrub it with a stiff-bristled brush. Rinse the floor adequately and allow time to dry.
- Mix the epoxy
Pour the resin into a clean bucket, then add the hardener. Stir thoroughly for at least 3-5 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom of the bucket. Use a drill mixer for the best results. Allow the mixture to rest: Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the chemicals to activate.
- Apply the epoxy
After mixing the epoxy, be ready to start. Use a roller with a long handle to apply the epoxy to the floor in thin, even coats. Work in sections, starting in the back of the garage and working towards the door. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended coverage rate and recoat time.
- Add decorative flakes
Decorative flakes are a popular choice for adding a touch of style and texture to epoxy flooring in garages. These flakes are typically made from a blend of vinyl chips, mica, or other materials and come in various colors and sizes. Once you’ve selected your color, sprinkle the decorative flakes over the floor’s surface. It’s best you broadcast the flakes by hand, but you can prefer a specialized spreader tool.
Types of garage floor epoxy you should know
There are several types of garage floor epoxy available in the market. Below are the most popular ones:
- 100% solids epoxy
This is the most robust and most durable type of epoxy available. It has no solvents, so it doesn’t shrink as it cures and can be used to build up the thickness of the coating. However, it is more expensive and more complex to apply than other types of epoxy.
- Water-based epoxy
This is a popular choice for homeowners because it is easy to apply, dries quickly, and has low VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions. It is also more affordable than other types of epoxy.
Bottom line
Your garage is an important place in your home where you can store most of your equipment apart from automobiles. Therefore you must keep the space in top condition. Applying garage floor epoxy is one of the best ways to improve its durability. Above are great ways to use the coating for excellent results.