5 Preparation Tasks For Garage Floor Coating Applications

An epoxy coating is one of the most effective and simplest ways to protect your garage floor. These coatings come in a range of colors and can even be applied in simple designs such as two-tone swirls. Epoxy coatings resist stains and help protect the concrete against damage, including cracks from impacts. Whether you use your garage just for parking or also as a workshop, a coated floor looks better and lasts longer compared to plain concrete.

1. Sealant Removal

Older garage floors may have sealants that were applied in an attempt to prevent stains and wear. Unfortunately, floor coatings won't adhere to these coatings, even if they are wearing thin. The good news is that your installation crew can use special solvents and cleaners to remove the old sealant layers so that the floor is ready for its new and much more durable epoxy coating.

2. Minor Repairs

Any small cracks or pits must be filled in before the coating can be applied. Otherwise, the damage can continue to grow and compromise the newly coated concrete surface. Keep in mind that repairs will still be visible under clear coatings. Choose an opaque color of coating if you want to fully camouflage the repair.

3. Moisture Checks

Any moisture trapped in the concrete can prevent the coating from adhering properly. In general, new concrete should be fully cured to ensure all moisture has evaporated, a process that can take a month or longer. Your installation expert will also perform a moisture check to make sure there is no moisture leaching through the surface. If there is, they may need to take special steps to dry it out. 

4. Thorough Cleaning

Old grease and oil stains can also prevent proper adherence of the coating, or at least lead to dark spots once the coating cures. There are products and methods available that pull the grease out of the porous concrete so that the stains are lightened to the point that they won't compromise the coating finish. These may need to be applied several days or weeks prior to coating application.

5. Surface Grinding

Finally, your installer may recommend grinding the surface slightly, particularly on older garage floors. Grinding removes any greasy residue or sealant that is missed in cleaning, as well as provides a slightly roughened surface to which the coating can much better adhere. Grinding may sound extreme, but the result will still be smooth floors.

Contact a garage floor coating service to learn more about the installation process.