How To Epoxy Garage Floor
Epoxy coating is a popular choice for garage floors due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to epoxy a garage floor:
Professionally Installed Epoxy Floor Cost By Pilmer Epoxy
#1 Preparation
Article: How To Epoxy Garage Floor
Clear the garage: Remove all items, vehicles, and debris from the garage floor. Then clean the floor. Sweep the floor thoroughly to remove loose dirt and dust. Use a shop vacuum to ensure the floor is completely clean.
Remove stains and oil spots: Use a degreaser or a specialized concrete cleaner to remove any stains or oil spots. Scrub the affected areas with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
#2 Etch Or Diamond Grind
Article: How To Epoxy Garage Floor
Etch the floor: Most epoxy kits include an etching solution. Dilute the etching solution as per the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the floor. Etching helps to open up the pores of the concrete and promote better adhesion of the epoxy coating. Scrub the floor. Use a stiff-bristle brush or a broom to scrub the etching solution into the floor. This helps to remove any stubborn dirt or stains. Rinse the floor thoroughly with water once you’re done scrubbing. Many professional epoxy installers will shot blast or diamond grind the floor in lieu of etching.
#3 Repair Any Cracks Or Damage
Article: How To Epoxy Garage Floor
Inspect the floor: Look for any cracks, pits, or other damage on the garage floor. If you find any, it’s important to repair them before applying the epoxy coating.
Fill the cracks: Use a concrete crack filler or epoxy resin to fill in any cracks or pits in the floor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and applying the filler. Allow the filler to cure completely before proceeding.
#4 Apply The Epoxy Coating
Article: How To Epoxy Garage Floor
Prepare the epoxy mixture: Follow the instructions provided with the epoxy kit to mix the epoxy resin and hardener. Mix them thoroughly for the recommended duration to ensure proper curing.
Start applying the epoxy: Begin by cutting in around the edges of the floor using a brush or a roller. Then, use a paint roller with an extension pole to apply the epoxy coating to the rest of the floor. Work in small sections to ensure even coverage.
Spread the epoxy: Once you’ve applied the epoxy, use a roller with a long nap to spread and smooth the coating. This helps to eliminate any lines or unevenness.
Apply multiple coats (if required): Some epoxy kits recommend applying multiple coats for better durability. Check the instructions provided with your kit to determine the number of coats required and allow sufficient drying time between each coat.
#5 Allow The Epoxy To Cure
Article: How To Epoxy Garage Floor
Let it dry: After applying the final coat, allow the epoxy coating to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes several days.
Avoid foot and vehicle traffic: During the drying period, keep foot and vehicle traffic off the epoxy-coated floor to prevent damage or premature wear.
Summary
It’s important to note that the specific instructions may vary depending on the epoxy kit you choose. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance. Pilmer Epoxy uses a 100% solids commercial grade epoxy from Sherwin Williams (Resuflor MPE). If you’d like to have your epoxy floor professionally installed get an Estimate from Pilmer Epoxy.