Garage floor installation is a great way to enhance the look and functionality of your garage. It requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge to ensure that the job is done correctly. Below, we explain the complete process that garage floor installers use, from preparation to the final steps. We will also discuss the importance of hiring a professional installer to guarantee a successful job and how to find the right garage floor installer for your project.

Garage Floor Coating

Let's review some of the essentials before jumping into the installation process. 

Difference Between Coating and Painting

The difference between coating and painting is that coatings are chemical-based materials that produce a thicker, more durable finish than paint. A coating will protect your garage floor for many years to come and won’t require frequent touch-ups or maintenance.

Solid Epoxy Coatings 

Epoxy coatings are made from a two-part system consisting of a resin and a hardener. When mixed, they form a durable and protective coating that is resistant to wear and tear chemicals, and abrasion. Epoxy coatings are easy to clean, and they come in a variety of colors and finishes.

Polyurethane Coating

Polyurethane coatings are a type of coating that is made from a chemically reactive mixture of polyurethane resins and other materials. They provide a tough, durable finish that is resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and wear and tear.

Polyaspartic

Polyaspartic coatings like Garage Finisher's Forever Floor, are a type of coating that is made from a combination of polyurethane and acrylic resins. This type of coating provides a strong, durable finish that is resistant to chemical and abrasion damage, and it is easy to clean and maintain.

Cleaning and Maintaining Garage Floor Coatings

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your garage floor coating are necessary to ensure that it looks its best and lasts for many years to come. Cleaning should be done with a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush. For stubborn stains, use a degreaser.

Benefits of Garage Floor Coating

A garage floor coating will provide many benefits, including improved durability, easier maintenance, improved safety, and a better visual effect. It will also protect your floor from stains and wear and tear, and it can be customized to fit your exact needs.

How a Garage Floor Coating is Installed

Installing a garage floor coating is a multi-step process. 

1. Test Slabs for Vapor Emissions or Moisture: The first step is to test the slab for vapor emissions or moisture. This will help ensure that the coating will adhere properly and last a long time.

2. Prepare Substrate Surface: Next, the substrate surface needs to be cleaned and prepared for the coating. This involves grinding, sanding, and patching any cracks or holes.

3. Patch: After the substrate is prepared, any cracks or holes need to be patched. This will help ensure that the coating will adhere properly and last a long time.

4. Scrub and Vacuum the Floor: The floor should then be scrubbed and vacuumed to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

5. Check Humidity: The humidity levels in the garage should be checked to make sure they are not too high or too low for the coating to adhere properly.

6. Apply Epoxy Primer: The next step is to apply an epoxy primer. This will help ensure that the coating adheres properly and lasts a long time.

7. Scrape Loose Flakes: Any loose flakes that may have come off the surface during the preparation process should be scraped off.

8. Apply Second Coat: The second coat of epoxy should then be applied. This will help provide a more durable finish and will help the coating last longer.

9. Scrape Loose Flakes and Vacuum: Any loose flakes that may have come off the surface during the second coat should be scraped off and vacuumed.

10. Apply Polyurethane, Epoxy, or Polyaspartic Top Coat: The third and final coat should be applied. This will provide the most protection and durability for your garage floor.

11. Apply Protective Sealer if Necessary: Depending on the type of coating, a protective sealer may be necessary to help protect it from UV rays, chemicals, and abrasion.

Cost of Garage Floor Coating: Factors

The cost of garage floor coating will vary depending on the type of coating, the size of the garage, and the complexity of the project. 

Why Hire a Professional Garage Floor Installer?

Hiring a professional garage floor installer will help ensure that the job is done correctly and that it will last for many years. Professional installers will have the necessary experience and knowledge to ensure that the job is done correctly and that the coating will adhere properly and last a long time.

Where To Hire Professional Garage Floor Installers?

When looking for a professional garage floor installer, it is important to research the company or individual to ensure that they have the right experience and qualifications. You should also ask for references and check online reviews to get an idea of the quality of their work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Floor Coating

Q: How long will a garage floor coating last?

A: The lifespan of a garage floor coating depends on the type of coating, the quality of the product, and the maintenance that is done. Generally speaking, a high-quality coating should last for 10-15 years with proper maintenance.

Q: What is the best garage floor coating?

A: The best garage floor coating will depend on the type of surface, the climate, and the desired look and feel. Generally speaking, epoxy coatings are the most popular and durable, while polyaspartic coatings provide a more decorative finish.

Get a Fast, Free Estimate for Garage Floor Coatings from Garage Finisher, Professional Garage Floor Installers

Garage Finisher is a professional garage floor installer that specializes in epoxy and polyaspartic coatings. We offer a wide range of garage floor coating services for a better alternative to dirt floor garage solutions and can help you create the perfect look and feel for your garage. Get a free, no-obligation estimate today!