What To Expect From an Epoxy Garage Floor Installation

An epoxy floor coating protects your garage floor from damage due to oil, chemical spills, and scrapes. With professional installation, epoxy creates a smooth, long-lasting floor covering with a glossy finish. Here is what to expect during an epoxy garage floor installation:

Floor Preparation and Repairs

Installers remove everything from your garage floor and clean grease, oil, and stains from the surface. They then remove existing coatings and sealants from your floor using a grinder. Grinding the floor creates a smooth surface and eliminates moisture, which can create inconsistencies in the epoxy. Some installers use acid etching or high-pressure washers to clean the floor and create a suitable surface for epoxy application. 

After preparing the surface, epoxy garage floor installers check for cracks or other flaws in the concrete that need fixing. They patch up cracks and allow time for the patching compound to cure. This step is necessary for achieving a flawless epoxy finish and preventing future issues. After the patching compound cures, installers clean the floor thoroughly to remove any debris left from the surface preparation and repairs. 

Primer Application

Primer provides a base onto which the epoxy can adhere, creating a durable finish. Priming the floor before epoxy application eliminates air bubbles that may form on the surface due to concrete outgassing. It also seals the floor, preventing moisture from damaging the materials. If you have stubborn oil and grease stains on your garage floor, your contractor may use an oil-blocking primer to cover the stains.

Installers apply epoxy primer to the floor in thin layers using a roller. This precision helps them avoid over-coating the floor or creating puddling. They give the primer a few hours to dry, then inspect and clean the surface before moving on to prepare the epoxy for installation. 

Epoxy Application

Installers mix the epoxy according to manufacturers’ instructions for resin and hardener ratios. Contractors first apply the epoxy mixture using an angled brush along wall seams, corners, and other areas a roller cannot reach. Once the edges are blocked in, they pour the mixed epoxy onto the floor in a long strip, spreading it evenly on the surface using a roller. Epoxy installers work in sections, starting at the furthest point of your garage and moving toward the exit. After working on each section, they use a brush or foam roller to help remove bubbles that may have formed and create a smooth finish.

Decorating and Sealing

While the epoxy is still wet, installers add decorative flakes or aggregates by hand. These colorful flakes add to your floor’s aesthetic appeal and durability. Some additives increase the epoxy’s texture and traction, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.

After adding decorative and functional elements, installers give the epoxy a few hours to cure. During this curing period, keep your garage free from foot traffic and heavy objects. Once the epoxy cures, installers will brush a clear coat of sealant on it for a durable finish.

Install an Epoxy Garage Floor

Epoxy flooring contributes to your garage floor’s durability and aesthetic appeal. It does not crack or stain easily and is easy to clean. Epoxy is also resistant to wear and tear due to foot and vehicle traffic and product spills. Contact a professional epoxy installation team today to learn more about improving the functionality of your garage.