Most people think that epoxy paint is one thing. But the reality is both products are different. Both of these products have unique chemical compositions. Epoxy floor coating is more brutal and trickier to apply, which is why you must hire flooring professionals for the best results. However, if you’re planning to do it yourself, careful preparation and an organized approach are the keys to success.
Epoxy Floor Coating Kit
It includes an etching solution, two parts of epoxy, decorative color chips (optional), and complete instructions.
Is Epoxy Coating Perfect For Your Garage Floor?
Epoxy floor coatings work best on a concrete floor with no large cracks, chips, or spalls. A brand-new concrete slab is best, but you can use epoxy coating once you repair and patch the cracks on older concrete. You can quickly fix minor chips and cracks with any concrete patching product. However, ensure that the patched areas get dry and cured fully before applying the epoxy. It would be best to ensure that the concrete is degreased and properly etched, as directed by the manufacturer or the epoxy.
What You’ll Need?
- Equipment / Tools
- Broom
- Wet-dry shop vacuum
- Stiff brush
- Garden hose
- Work gloves
- Eye protection
- 3-inch paintbrush
- 9-inch paint roller with 1/2-inch-nap roller cover
- Materials
- Concrete degreaser
- Epoxy floor coating kit
- Painter’s tape
- Plastic sheeting (optional)
- Instructions
- Clean and Degrease the Floor
Steps to epoxy coat your garage floor
Step 1: Prep your floor – Clean the debris on the floor using a broom and wet-dry vacuum. If there are grease stains, use a degreaser and a stiff brush to remove them. Rinse the degreaser with a garden hose and allow the floor to dry.
Step 2: Etch the Concrete – The next step is to etch the concrete floor using the etching solution. Prepare the solution by mixing the etching solution and water as directed in the instructions. Pour the mixture on the floor, and then use a stiff brush or broom to spread it onto the surface. It will rub your surface by creating foam and fizz. Now rinse the concrete floor thoroughly with a garden hose. Let the concrete dry completely, which may take several days.
Step 3: Prepare the Room – Apply wide painter’s tape along the walls’ bottoms once the concrete gets completely dry. Also, cover the bottom foot or two of the walls with plastic sheets. You can remove baseboards (if it’s easy) to apply epoxy right next to the wall. It will also eliminate the need to cut the edges with a brush.
Step 4: Mix the Epoxy – Once your floor is ready, it’s time to mix the epoxy material. Mix two parts of catalyst and one part of resin just before application. Stir the paint with a brush, and then add the epoxy catalyst to it while stirring. Stir it until the catalyst gets thoroughly mixed. Now cover the mixture with a lid and let it settle for the time mentioned in the instructions.
Step 5: Apply the Epoxy – Start applying it on the floor as soon as the epoxy is ready. Depending on the weather, you’ll have a maximum of 2 hours to apply the epoxy. Make sure to keep the place well-ventilated throughout the process. Use a 3-inch paintbrush, 9-inch roller, and ½ inch nap roller to spread epoxy on the floor. Wait for at least 12 hours before applying the second coat of epoxy.
Step 6: Let the Garage Floor Dry – Make sure to wait for at least 24 hours before using your space. Also, plan to wait for several days before parking your car in the garage.
When purchasing your floor coating, it’s imperative to ensure that you have enough to cover the entire garage floor. Still have any doubts about epoxy floor coatings, contact Transylvania Concrete Coatings professionals today!