The Ultimate Guide to Garage Floor Resurfacing in Easy Steps

If your garage floor is looking a little worse for wear, don't despair! There are a number of easy and affordable ways to give it new life. Resurfacing your garage floor is a great way to protect it from stains, cracks, and other damage while also making it look brand new again because your garage floor needs love and attention, too!

Some people might think that taking care of your garage floor, whether a concrete floor or an epoxy garage floor is hard work, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, resurfacing your garage floor is a relatively easy and straightforward process that anyone can do with the right tools and materials.

Here's everything you need to know about how to resurface your garage floor in easy steps.

Understanding How Garage Floor Coatings Work

It is a common misconception that your garage floor coating needs to be as tough as your car's tires. In reality, the only thing you need to do is find the right product for your needs and ensure that it is installed correctly by following the proper procedures.

Why is that so? Well, it's because your garage floor is exposed to a lot of wear and tear. Over time, the surface will become dull and lifeless due to the dirt, dust, oil, and grease that accumulates on it. It would help if you had a good quality garage floor coating that can withstand all these elements while still looking good as new. A garage floor coating that is easy to clean and maintain will also save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.

Installing a garage floor coating is not as difficult as it sounds. You don't need to be a professional to do it. With the right tools and materials, anyone can install a garage floor coating in their garage.

Most garage floors are made of concrete, and that's where your average floor coating is applied. The concrete flooring must be prepped first before applying any coating. The first step is to etch the surface to adhere to the floor properly so that the new coating can bond to the surface. This can be done with a light etching solution or even just sandpaper in some cases.

Once the etching process is done, it's time to apply the floor coating. But before that, you must ensure that the concrete is clean and free from debris or dirt. If there are any cracks on the floor, you must repair them before proceeding with the garage floor coatings on your epoxy floors. 

Benefits of Using Garage Floor Epoxy

One of the most popular garage floor coatings is epoxy. Epoxy is a durable and long-lasting material that can resist stains, scratches, and other damage. But apart from that, there are a couple of other advantages to using epoxy as your garage floor coating.

Easy Maintenance

One of the best things about epoxy is that it is very easy to maintain. Unlike other floor coatings, you don't need to wax or polish it regularly to keep it looking good as new. All you need to do is sweep and mop it regularly, and you're good to go!

Non-Slip Surface

Another great thing about epoxy is that it provides a non-slip surface. This is important, especially if you have a garage that is used for car repairs or other activities that require a lot of movement. With an epoxy coating, you can rest assured that your floor will be slip-resistant, even when wet.

Hides Imperfections

Applying epoxy paint on your garage floor can also help to hide any imperfections on the surface. If you have cracks or holes on your floor, epoxy can fill them in and make your floor look smooth and even.

Affordable

Epoxy is also a very affordable option when it comes to garage floor coatings. It is one of the most budget-friendly options available, making it a great choice for those who are working with a tight budget.

Aesthetic Appeal

Another advantage of using epoxy for your garage floor coating is that it can give your floor a high-gloss finish that will make it look new again. Epoxy is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your taste. You can even add flakes or other design elements to create a unique look for your floor.

Epoxy Coating for Garage Floors

Epoxy garage floors last much longer as compared to other garage floors because of the protection that epoxy floor coatings provide. The epoxy resin protects the floor from UV exposure which can cause fading and discoloration. In addition to that, epoxy is also resistant to water, oil, grease, and other chemicals where the chemical reaction can cause damage to your floor.

Applying an epoxy coating to your garage floor is a great way to improve its appearance and increase its lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, your epoxy-coated garage floor can last for many years to come. Moreover, putting some garage floor paint is also good since it protects the entire surface from heavy foot traffic, liquid spills, and cold weather.

Resurfacing your concrete floors is important because an epoxy flooring lives much longer than a garage flooring that is stripped bare due to an absence of a polyaspartic garage floor coating or any epoxy floor coating. In addition, it will also eliminate any oil stains or skid marks that might be present on your floor, making it look as good as new!

Even so, it's still hard to do all these by yourself, especially if you are a newbie. Words such as polyurethane coatings, curing process, polyaspartic coating, and other related terms might confuse you, which is why we highly suggest that you seek professional help to make sure that your garage floor resurfacing is done correctly.

Types of Epoxy Coating for Garage Floors

There are two main types of epoxy coating that you can choose from: water-based and solvent-based.

Water-Based Epoxy

Water-based epoxy is the most common type of epoxy used for garage floors. It is easy to apply and it doesn't have a strong odor, making it a good choice for those who are sensitive to strong chemicals. In addition, water-based epoxy is also less likely to yellow over time. However, one downside to using this type of epoxy is that it doesn't last as long as solvent-based epoxy. Typically, water-based epoxy can only last for about two to three years before it needs to be reapplied.

Solvent-Based Epoxy

Solvent-based epoxy is a more durable option as compared to water-based epoxy. It is also more resistant to chemicals and stains, making it a good choice for those who are looking for a long-lasting garage floor coating. However, the downside of using solvent-based epoxy is that it has a strong odor and can be quite difficult to apply. If you plan to DIY, we suggest that you have someone else to help you with the application process.

Choosing the right type of epoxy coating for your garage floor will depend on your needs and preferences. If you want an easy-to-apply option with no strong odor, then water-based epoxy is a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more durable option that is resistant to stains and chemicals, then solvent-based epoxy might be a better choice.

Types of Garage Floor Coatings

There are various types of garage floor coatings that you can choose from which is why it is important that you know your options. This will help you decide which one is the best for your needs.

Epoxy-Based Coating

One of the most common types is epoxy-based coatings. They are durable and long-lasting, but they are more expensive than other types of coatings. For epoxy-based coatings, you need to apply a basecoat and then a topcoat. The basecoat is usually made of acrylic or polyurethane and the topcoat is usually made of epoxy.

Polyurethane-Based Coating

Polyurethane-based coatings are another type of coating that is available in the market. They are not as durable as epoxy-based coatings, but they are more affordable. Nonetheless, a polyurethane-based coating can still provide a high level of protection for your garage floor.

Acrylic-Based Coating

Acrylic-based coatings are also available in the market. These are the most affordable type of coatings, but they are not as durable as the other types. Nonetheless, they can still provide a decent level of protection for your garage floor.

Polyurea-Based Coating

Another type of garage floor coating is polyurea-based coatings. They are similar to polyurethane-based coatings, but they are more flexible and they can resist impact better. In addition, they are also more resistant to chemicals and scratches because they have a higher molecular weight. A higher molecular weigt means that the coating is denser and thus, more durable.

Polyaspartic Coating

Polyaspartic coatings are another type of coating that you can choose from. They are similar to polyurea-based coatings, but they cure faster. It is a protective layer of aliphatic polyurea that is used to coat metal or concrete flooring. To avoid corrosion and erosion, the surfaces are coated by spraying, painting, or plastering.

When choosing a garage floor coating, it is important to consider your budget and your needs. If you need a durable and long-lasting option, then epoxy-based coatings are a good choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable option, then polyurethane-based or acrylic-based coatings might be a better choice. You should also consider the type of surface that you will be coating. If you need a flexible and impact-resistant option, then polyurea-based or polyaspartic coating might be a good choice. Lastly, if you need a fast-curing option, then polyaspartic coatings are a good choice.

Applying the Garage Floor Coating

After ensuring that the concrete floor is clean, dry, and free from any cracks, it's now time to apply the coating. The type of coating you'll use will depend on the look you want to achieve and the level of durability you need. The different types of epoxy coatings include :

• Solid Color Epoxy Coating: This type of epoxy coating is best for those who want to achieve a solid color look for their garage floor. It is also the most durable type of epoxy coating, making it ideal for those who need a floor that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
• Clear Epoxy Coating: This type of epoxy coating is best for those who want to protect their floor while still being able to see the natural look of the concrete. It is also less susceptible to yellowing, making it ideal for those who want a floor that will still look good after years of use.
• Metallic Epoxy Coating: This type of epoxy coating is best for those who want to achieve a luxurious look for their garage floor. It is also very durable, making it ideal for those who need a floor that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Applying should not take you more than a few hours, and you can do it yourself if you want to. But if you're not confident about doing it, it's best to hire a professional to do the job for you.

There are many different types of coatings available in the market, so we'll help you choose the best one for your needs.

Choosing the Right Garage Floor Coating

The market is full of different garage floor coatings, so choosing the right one can be quite tricky. But don't worry. We'll help you narrow down your choices to pick the best one for your needs.

Durability

Epoxy-based coatings are of exceptional durability and resistance to stains, chemicals, and scratches. They are also very easy to maintain and clean. This is because they form a protective layer on the surface of the concrete, which prevents dirt and debris from penetrating into the pores and causing stains.

Level of Gloss

Another factor you need to consider is the level of gloss you want to achieve. If you want a high-gloss finish, you need to choose a coating that contains polyurethane. Polyurethane-based coat, however, they are more expensive than other types of coatings.

If you're on a budget, then you can choose polyurethane-based coatings. They are not as durable as epoxy-based coatings, but they are more affordable.

Curb Appeal

Another factor you need to consider is the look you want to achieve. If you want a glossy finish, you need to choose epoxy-based coatings. But if you want a more natural look, you can choose polyurethane-based coatings.

Climate

You also need to consider the climate in your area when choosing a garage floor coating. If you live in an area with cold winters, you need to choose a coating that can withstand the cold weather. The best type of coating for this climate is epoxy-based coatings. But if you live in an area with hot summers, you need to choose a coating that can withstand the heat. The best type of coating for this climate is polyurethane-based coatings.Cost

Last but not least, you need to consider your budget when choosing a garage floor coating. Epoxy-based coatings are more expensive than other types of coatings. But if you're on a budget, you can choose polyurethane-based coatings. Epoxy-based coating usually costs around $3 to $12 per square foot. Polyurethane-based coating, on the other hand, usually costs around  $0.95–$1.10 per square foot inclusive of materials and labor.

Why is Epoxy Floor Coating A Better Way to Taking Care of Your Garage Floor Coating?

Epoxy floor coating is one of the best ways to care for your garage floor because it contains a resin that bonds well with concrete. This means that it can fill in any cracks and crevices, thereby, providing a smooth surface. It is also very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. This makes it ideal for those who need a floor that can withstand a lot of traffic.

In addition, it also has a high resistance to stains and chemicals. This is because the resin forms a protective layer on the surface of the concrete. Now, there are many different types of coatings available in the market, so choosing the right one can be quite tricky. But don't worry. We'll help you narrow down your choices to pick the best one for your needs.

Tools and Materials Required for Garage Floor Resurfacing

Before you start the resurfacing process, it is important to gather all the tools and materials that you will need. This will help to make sure that the process goes smoothly and that you have everything that you need on hand.

Some of the tools and materials that you will need for garage floor resurfacing include:

• Epoxy resin
• 3/8 inch nape roller with an extension handle
• Push broom
• Hardener
• Mixing bucket
• Paint Roller or brush
• Masking tape
• Vacuum cleaner
• Sandpaper
• Concrete floor sealer
• Degreaser or heavy-duty cleaner
• Etching solution or muriatic acid
• Plastic watering can
• Garden hose
• High-speed buffer (optional)
• Chips (optional)
• Leaf blower (optional)

Once you have gathered all the tools and materials that you need, you are now ready to start the resurfacing process.

Steps to Garage Floor Resurfacing

Resurfacing garage floors, in general, is a simple process that you can do by yourself with the right tools and materials. But if you want to be sure, we suggest that you follow these easy steps:

1. Prep work.

This is probably the most important step. You need to make sure that the area is clean and free of obstacles. You can start to properly prep the surface by sweeping the floor and removing loose dirt or debris. Feel free to use a leaf blower to make the job easier.

If there are any oil stains or grease marks on the floor, you will need to remove them as well. You can do this by scrubbing the affected area with a degreaser or a heavy-duty cleaner. Once you're done, rinse the area with water and allow it to dry completely. This will make it easier for you to work on the floor.

Next, cover the walls with plastic sheeting along the foundation's edge or at the height where you will apply the epoxy up the walls. This is to protect the walls from any overspray.

2. Etch the surface.

Etching refers to the process of making the surface rough so that the epoxy can easily adhere to it. You can do this by using a concrete etcher or a Muriatic acid solution.

Pour the etching solution into a plastic watering can and add water (following the manufacturer's instructions). When working with chemicals, wear gloves, rubber boots, and safety glasses. Spray the area with a garden hose to moisten it.

Next, simply pour the etcher into a pump sprayer and apply it to the floor. Pour the solution over a 10-by-10-foot area in the opposite corner from your exit point. Then, using a bristle brush, carefully sweep the area in one direction and then go over it again in a perpendicular manner. Continue etching the floor in tiny portions. Rinse the floor with a garden hose once it's done, beginning in your first corner and working your way forward. Continue rinsing until the water is clear. Allow at least 4 hours for the floor to dry. 

3. Clean the surface.

Once the etching is done, you need to clean the surface again to remove any residue. You can do this by sweeping the floor and mopping it with a neutral cleaner. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

4. Apply the primer.

The primer is important as it helps the epoxy to better adhere to the surface. Simply pour the primer into a paint tray and use a paint roller to apply it onto the floor. Make sure to evenly cover the entire surface. Make sure to dry the primer completely before moving on to the next step.

5. Mix the epoxy.

Once the primer is dry, you can now mix the epoxy. Stir the epoxy paint while carefully adding the hardener. Scrape out any last traces of hardener into the paint. Stir the two components for 3 minutes until they are fully combined.

If you are using two-part garage floor epoxy and you want to achieve a color flake finish, then you will need to mix the epoxy with the color flakes. Simply pour the epoxy into a clean paint tray and add the desired amount of color flakes. Use a paint roller to mix everything together until it is evenly distributed. Once it is mixed thoroughly, pour it into a paint tray and use a paint roller to apply it to the floor. Start from one end of the garage and work your way to the other. Set the can aside and keep it away from direct sunlight.

6. Apply the new garage floor coating.

The epoxy mixture must be used within two hours to properly cure, so move fast. Keep the garage as open and well-ventilated as possible while you work to ensure proper curing. This is the most important step in the process. Move to the far corner opposite the exit. Roll a 10-by-10-foot section of the board using a 3/8 inch nape roller with an extension handle. The epoxy should feel thicker and stickier than the usual house paint.

You need to apply the new coating evenly and carefully as you don't want to create any bubbles or unevenness. One coat of epoxy is usually enough, but you can apply a second coat if you want to achieve a thicker finish. Usually, a top coat is not necessary but you can apply one if you want to achieve a high-gloss finish.

Re-roll the roller and go over the area in a perpendicular pattern, feathering out uneven lines. Cover one section of the floor at a time. If you want to use two coats, finish the entire floor and let it dry for 12 to 24 hours before recoating it in the same manner.

7. Add the chips (optional).

If you want to add color or texture to your garage floor, you can do so by adding chips to the wet epoxy. Simply sprinkle the chips over the floor and then use a push broom to spread them evenly. Make sure to do this quickly as the epoxy will start to set in a few minutes.

When you're done painting, lay down the color flakes while the surface is still wet. You can use your hands to sprinkle them over the floor or pour them directly from the bag. Use a push broom to spread them evenly across the floor. The epoxy will start to set in a few minutes, so work quickly. Work your way from the back of the garage to the front, utilizing rolling on the epoxy. Allow for 12 to 24 hours for the entire floor to dry (extendable in humid or cold conditions).

8. Let it dry.

Once the new coating is applied, you need to let it dry completely before you can use the floor. The drying process is usually fast, but it can take up to 24 hours for the floor to completely cure. Once it is dry, you can now enjoy your newly resurfaced garage floor!

The steps to garage floor resurfacing are pretty simple. You just need to make sure that you follow them carefully in order to achieve the best results.

Taking Care of Your Epoxy Coating

Epoxy coatings are one of the most popular types of garage floor coatings because they are durable and long-lasting. However, they require more care and maintenance than other types of coatings. The first thing you need to do is to sweep or vacuum your floor regularly to remove dirt and debris. Moreover, you should also mop your floor with a mild soap and water solution to remove any oil or grease stains.

To help you keep your garage floor in tip-top condition, here are a few more tips:

1. Don't let oil or grease build up on the surface.

Oil and grease on garage floors are common, but they can damage your coating. If you see any oil or grease, clean it up immediately. For example, you can use a degreaser or a pressure washer to remove tough stains.

2. Don't let water sit on the surface.

Water can damage your coating, so it's important to remove any water sitting on the surface. For example, you can use a mop or a wet/dry vacuum to remove water. It doesn't matter what mop or vacuum you'll use to get the water out of your garage floor coating. What is important is that you remove the water as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

3. Don't let dirt and dust accumulate on the surface.

Dirt and dust can also damage your coating because they can act as abrasives. Over time, the dirt and dust will scratch and wear away the coating. This is why it's important to sweep or vacuum your floor regularly.

4. Don't use harsh chemicals or cleaners.

Harsh chemicals and cleaners can also damage your coating. This is why you should only use mild soap and water to clean your floor. If you need to remove tough stains, you can use a degreaser or a pressure washer. However, make sure to follow the instructions on how to use these products.

One of the harshest chemicals you need to avoid is bleach. Bleach can damage your floor coating, so it's best to avoid using it. Another harsh chemical is acetone. Acetone is commonly used in nail polish removers, and it can damage your floor coating.

5. Don't let the surface become too hot.

Extreme heat can damage your coating, so it's important to keep the temperature in your garage at a comfortable level. In addition, you should never use a torch or any other type of heat source on your floor.

It's also important to avoid parking your car in direct sunlight. The sun's rays can damage the coating, so it's best to park your car in the shade.

6. Don't let the surface become too cold.

Extreme cold can also damage your coating. In addition, you should never use a power washer or any other type of high-pressure water on your floor.

To prevent the surface from becoming too cold, you should insulate your garage. This will help keep the temperature in your garage at a comfortable level. Garage insulation is important, especially if you live in frigid winters.

Usually, you cannot do insulation independently, and you will need to hire a professional.

7. Don't let the surface become too dry.

A lack of moisture can damage your coating, so it's important to keep the surface moist. For example, you can use a humidifier or a spray bottle filled with water. We mentioned that you should never make your garage floor too wet, but making it too dry might also damage it.

8. Do not use coatings over coatings.

Applying one coating over another can damage both coatings. If you need to apply a new coating, make sure that you remove the old one first. For example, you want to put an epoxy garage floor coating on your concrete floor, but it still has an old sealant. You should remove the old sealant before applying the epoxy coating.

9. Do not use solvents to remove coatings.

Solvents can damage both the coating and the surface beneath it. If you need to remove a coating, make sure that you use a specifically designed product for removing coatings. One highly-recommended product is a citrus-based stripper.

10. Do not sand the surface.

Sanding the surface can damage the coating and create a speck of hazardous dust. Inhaling this dust can cause many health problems, such as lung cancer. If you need to remove the coating, make sure that you use a product designed specifically for removing coatings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will an epoxy floor last?

Epoxy floors are very durable, and they can last for many years. However, the lifespan of your floor will depend on how well you take care of it. If you follow the tips in this guide, your floor should last for many years.

How much does an epoxy floor cost?

The cost of an epoxy floor will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of your garage and the quality of the materials that you use. Generally speaking, you can expect to spend between $500 and $3000 on an epoxy floor.

Is it worth it to resurface my garage floor?

If you have a damaged or unattractive garage floor, then resurfacing it with epoxy is definitely worth it. Not only will you improve the look of your garage, but you'll also protect your floor from further damage.

Resurfacing your garage floor is a great way to improve the look of your garage and protect your floor from further damage.

How long does it take to resurface a garage floor?

The amount of time it takes to resurface a garage floor will vary depending on the size of your garage and the condition of your floor. Generally speaking, it will take most people between one and two days to resurface their garage floor.

Can I do it myself?

Yes, you can definitely resurface your own garage floor. However, we recommend that you hire a professional if you've never done this before. Resurfacing a garage floor is not a difficult task, but it's important to do it correctly.

Hiring a professional will ensure that your floor is resurfaced properly and will also save you time and effort.

Final Tips

If you're thinking about resurfacing your garage floor, make sure that you follow these tips. They will help ensure that the job is done correctly and that your floor lasts for many years. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us. We're happy to help!