5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Epoxying Your Garage Floor

Think about all the salt, sand, and dirt your vehicle tracks into your garage during the winter months. Now consider how challenging it is to keep the floor clean afterward. Chances are, the answers are "a lot" and "not very." The issue here is that most garage floors are made of porous concrete, allowing the grime from your car to seep right in.

But imagine giving your floor a protective epoxy coating. It would withstand anything your car throws at it – even engine oil – making cleaning a breeze and giving your floor a sleek, polished look.

Before you dive in, however, there are some critical questions you should ask yourself. These answers will significantly impact the amount of work involved and how much satisfaction you'll get from your newly renovated garage floor.

1. DIY or Hire a Professional?

While you may have seen those DIY epoxy kits at the hardware store, don't assume it's an easy project. If you've got a large garage or any issues with the concrete or flooring, hiring a professional might save you both time and frustration. Professionals bring experience and tools that can make the job go smoother and ensure better results.

2. Epoxy or Polyurea?

Both epoxy and polyurea coatings are excellent choices for your garage floor, but they each have their own unique benefits. While polyurea coatings share similarities with epoxy, they're gaining popularity because of certain advantages. For instance, polyurea is more elastic than epoxy, cures faster, and offers superior scratch resistance. However, it comes with a higher price tag—about three times the cost of epoxy.

3. How Porous is the Concrete?

Before applying epoxy, it's essential to assess the porosity of your concrete. If the surface is already smooth or has been sealed, you'll need to roughen it up by grinding to enhance its ability to absorb the epoxy. This step ensures proper adhesion and durability of the coating.

4. Are There Cracks in the Floor?

Cracks in your garage floor can pose a challenge when applying epoxy. If the cracks are wide enough to show through the finish, you'll need to clean them thoroughly and fill them with a suitable sealant. Properly addressing these cracks will prevent water infiltration and prolong the life of your epoxy coating.

5. What Will You Do With Everything in Your Garage?

One of the most overlooked aspects of a garage floor renovation is finding temporary storage for everything you keep in your garage. Whether you choose to move items into your home or rent short-term storage, you'll need to clear out the space before starting the project. Be prepared for the fact that this process can take several days, from preparation to application and curing of the epoxy.

Not all of these questions are simple to answer, and some may require further research on your part. Once you've addressed these concerns, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a beautiful and durable garage floor that you can be proud of.