Everything You Need to Know About Doing Epoxy for Your Garage (817)

Is it time to upgrade your garage floor? If so, using an epoxy coating could be just what you are looking for in your space. Not only will it look GREAT, but it will also last for a long time! Epoxy repels all that can harm the floor and makes clean-up easy. Learn everything you need to know about doing epoxy for your garage here.

Epoxy flooring is one part resin and the other part hardener. It is a two-part floor coating, making it a mix, not a single component. Be aware that all epoxies aren’t the same. There are three types of epoxy coatings. Choose from 100% solid epoxy, water-based epoxy, and solvent-based epoxy.

Are you looking to learn all about applying epoxy? There is a ton of info about this topic; it is essential to research before starting the process. A lot is going on in the process so take the time to prepare for the job. Consider all of your options to make a well-informed decision.

Everything You Need to Know About Doing Epoxy for Your Garage

Epoxy is a resilient and robust material. Although this flooring adds strength to garage floors, they are not meant for heavy-duty commercial traffic.

Yet, there are many reasons to do epoxy for your garage. Here are our TOP REASONS.

1. Easy to clean: Since epoxy flooring protects the concrete floor from stains, creases, moisture and crack, it is an excellent choice for a high-action garage. No need to wax, clean carpet or grout with these floors. In addition, epoxy is resistant to most chemicals.
2. Affordable: Less need for maintenance means fewer maintenance costs. Clean the epoxy floor with a dust mop or wash it down using a hose.
3. Aesthetically pleasing: Epoxy floors look good. They can be finished in a variety of colours and designs. They can also have a concrete look or can add sprinkles for depth. These floors last for years and don’t quickly fade, chip, or peel. Choose colour pigments and metallic effects for a unique look.
4. Non-slip: These floors are suitable for high-traffic areas and for places that use some mechanical loads. Epoxy floors can help prevent accidents by repelling liquids and components.

Types of Epoxy

The type of epoxy you choose affects the application price and ease.

1. 100% solid epoxy: If you want the most durable option, this is it. This version is a two-part process that can last for up to 20 years. This type is the best option for professional garage floors!
2. Water-based epoxy: This version contains between 40 – 60 % epoxy. Since this version is thinner, it is easier and quicker to apply.
3. Solvent-based epoxy: This type is easier to apply than the 100% solid version and stronger than the water one. People must use a respirator when applying this type. 

The Pros of Epoxy Garage Floors

So why should you apply for an epoxy floor? Here are some of the advantages when using this option.

• If you need a more robust or more decorative floor, adding vinyl chips is an option. Once the epoxy is down, while wet, add vinyl chips. Once they are set, seal the floor with a UV-stable polyaspartic sealer.
• Choose a slurry finish if the floor is in bad condition. This resurfacing option covers up all the wear-and-tear a floor experienced. The slurry adds fine silica, slurry powder, or aggregates (a rock-like course material).
• Epoxy can last for many years and is a smooth, durable surface. It is also scratch-resistant.

Things to Consider when Doing Epoxy

Every job always has its pros and cons. Taking the time to figure out how to turn

• If you don’t include a finish, UV radiation can negatively affect the floors. On the bright side, an HIM finish can improve this situation.
• It is time-consuming when waiting for the floor to cure. Depending on the weather, it can take one to three days to cure. It is always a good idea to hire professionals.
• It is sometimes costly when installed by a professional at $5 to $15 per square foot.
• Epoxy is a rigid material. It does not have flexibility, so that foundational shifts can cause cracks.

Application Tips: Doing Epoxy for Your Garage

1. Find a partner to help. A person can do this job alone, but it will be oh so much easier with another set of hands. Higher solids epoxy is time-sensitive.
2. If applied when too hot or humid, epoxy can peel. In addition, improper preparation can lead to peeling. 

Get Epoxy Help: The Best Option

Contact us here at C.O.A.T. Systems for all your epoxy needs. We give our clients peace of mind when re-doing their flooring. Not only do we know everything you need to know about doing epoxy for your garage, but we also specialize in residential (interior and porch/patio), commercial, and industrial flooring!