Prepare the Garage Floor
Test for Moisture
Gather Tools and Materials
Mix and Apply the Base Coat
Broadcast Paint Chips
Scrape Off Excess Chips
Apply the Topcoat
Apply a Second Topcoat (Optional)
Remove Tape and Clean Up
Let the Floor Cure
Tips
- Clear the space: Remove all items from the garage, including tools, vehicles, and shelving. Ensure the floor is completely clear.
- Clean the surface: Sweep and vacuum to remove any dirt, dust, and debris. Use a pressure washer or hose to thoroughly clean the floor. Scrub with a degreasing cleaner to remove oil or grease stains.
- Repair cracks and damage: Fill in any cracks, chips, or holes with a concrete patching compound. Allow it to dry completely, then sand it smoothly to ensure an even surface.
- Profile the concrete: This step makes it possible for adhesion. We use commercial grinding machines and vacuums following the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean thoroughly and let the floor dry completely if necessary.
- Check for moisture: Moisture can cause floor coatings to fail. Tape a plastic sheet (about 2 feet by 2 feet) to the garage floor and leave it for 24 hours. If moisture forms underneath, the floor may need additional moisture mitigation before coating.
- Garage floor coating kit (epoxy, polyaspartic, or similar)
- Paint rollers with extension poles
- Paintbrushes (for edges)
- Paint trays
- Paint mixing tools (drill with paddle attachment)
- Concrete patch (if needed)
- Chip flakes (if using a paint chip system)
- Concrete Grinder
- Floor scraper and squeegee
- Painter’s tape and plastic sheeting
- Tape off the area: Use painter's tape to protect the edges of the walls, garage door tracks, and other areas where you don’t want the coating.
- Mix the base coat: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the coating components. For epoxy, this usually involves mixing a resin and hardener. For polyaspartic, follow the specific instructions for mixing and curing times.
- Apply the base coat: Use a paintbrush to coat the edges and corners first (known as “cutting in”). Then use a roller with an extension pole to apply the base coat in sections. Work in 4x4-foot areas, applying the coating evenly.
- While the base coat is still wet, broadcast the paint chips by tossing them into the air and letting them fall naturally onto the floor until rejection. This ensures even distribution and a more random look.
- Work in sections, ensuring you have enough chips to cover the area without clumping them in one spot.
- Allow the base coat to dry for the recommended time (typically 24 hours, but it depends on the product and weather conditions).
- Once the base coat has dried, use a floor scraper or squeegee to remove any loose or excess chips. This helps smooth out the surface and ensures the chips are evenly distributed.
- Mix the topcoat: For epoxy systems, this is usually a clear, protective finish. Polyaspartic systems often have a topcoat mixed the same way as the base. Mix the components as directed by the manufacturer.
- Apply the topcoat: Using a clean roller and paintbrush, apply the topcoat evenly over the floor, covering the chips and sealing the surface. This adds protection and durability to the coating.
- Allow drying time: Depending on the type of product used, the topcoat will need time to cure. For epoxy, this could be 24-72 hours. Polyaspartic coatings usually cure faster and may be ready for light foot traffic in 24 hours.
- For added durability and protection, you can apply a second clear topcoat once the first one is fully cured. This is optional but may extend the life of the floor coating in high-traffic areas.
- After the final coat has dried, carefully remove the painter’s tape and clean up any drips or splatters.
- Dispose of any leftover materials and properly clean the tools according to the coating manufacturer’s instructions.
- Curing time: Before driving vehicles or placing heavy items on the garage floor, allow the coating to fully cure. This can take anywhere from 3 to 7 days depending on the product and temperature. Avoid any heavy traffic during this period to ensure the best results.
- Work in sections: Coatings dry quickly, so it’s best to work in manageable areas, especially with polyaspartic coatings.
- Ventilate the space: Proper ventilation is important, especially when using strong-smelling products like epoxy or acid etchers.
- Weather considerations: For epoxy, applying in very hot or cold weather can affect the curing process. Polyaspartic is more flexible in various temperatures and is UV resistant.