Garage Flooring: Epoxy Floor Coatings

By Author: Marlin Benton
Total Articles: 2
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If one is looking for the best and durable floor coating for garage floors, epoxy floor coatings are the most recommended products because of the ease in its application. In addition, it is cost effective, durable and aesthetically pleasing versus a dull gray concrete of a garage floor.
The benefits of epoxy floor paint include:
->> Strong adhesion
->> Long lasting
->> Rustproof
->> Heat resistant (no hot tire pick-up)
->> Salt and acid resistance
->> Reduced maintenance costs
->> Nontoxic when dry
This paint resin does not only add beauty to the floor, but also, hides stains, spills and other imperfections that may have developed over time. It is commonly known in the market as the garage sealer because it is effective in sealing the cracks and holes on cemented garage floors.
Not all floors can be applied with epoxy coatings though. Floors that are always wet or “sweats” do not ...
... provide a good surface for epoxy coatings and the paint will not last long with the constant moisture. The same goes for exterior concrete surfaces perpetually exposed to the elements.
There are basically three types of epoxies:
->> 100% solid type is the strongest and the most expensive. This should only be handled by professionals.
->> Solvent-based, which are not as strong, are mostly for industrial use. They contain 40 – 60% solids and the solvents are very toxic.
->> Water-based epoxies are the cheapest and are not as durable though strong enough for residential use. It is much more user friendly.
Once applied, epoxy floor coatings provide an added layer of strength and protection to the concrete itself because of its high resistance to scratch, dent and ordinary wear and tear. It increases the floor’s resiliency to stain, even those from oil, dirt and tire marks and hide minor imperfections. It gives the floor a glossy finish in different shades which can be enhanced with decorative quartz, paint chips and other design options.
Hiring professional installers can save one on future maintenance costs. A 2-part epoxy binder (base coat for decorative chips) which contains 95 – 100 percent solids results in a much thicker and, therefore, more durable coating finish. On the other hand, it is because of this extra thick finish that regular care and maintenance should be done e.g. frequent sweeping and dry mopping to get rid of dirt which is very abrasive and can leave scratches on the flooring. Wiping and cleaning up spills immediately are advised to keep off moisture which could cause the epoxy to bubble and even destroy the floor below it.
To preserve its hardy surface, here are some other simple steps:
1.Use all-purpose cleaning product (ammonia would do) and mix it with warm (never hot) water according to manufacturer’s direction. Scrub the floor with sponge or string mop as needed. Take the necessary precautions when using ammonia which is caustic and can burn skin. Make sure the area is well-ventilated and wear protective clothing.
2.Rinse well the bucket of soapy water as well as the mop head before rinsing the floor with clean water. Do this until any suds or residue is no longer seen on the floor. Allow the floor to dry naturally or wipe it down with a clean dry cloth.
With proper care, one can enjoy the benefits of an epoxy floor coating for a long time.
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