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Epoxy Garage Floors
An epoxy floor is by far the most durable
choice for a garage. It is also the most
expensive and the most difficult to install.
Unlike PVC flooring or vinyl mats that are quick and easy to
put in and take out, epoxy is a permanent
finish that involves a labor intensive process,
usually done by a professional. The result
is an industrial strength, high quality finish
that is harder than the concrete it sits
on. The process consists of applying a primer,
followed by several layers of epoxy, a coat
of texture such as sand or urethane chips,
and several coats of a sealer.
If you are thinking of installing
an epoxy
floor in your garage, consider
the following:
- Newer epoxies are acrylic based rather than
made from solvents, so they are less toxic.
This makes them much safer to work with and
far more pleasant to be around during the
application process. The newer types are
just as strong as the old varieties.
- The best results will be achieved when the
epoxy is applied to a new concrete floor
that has been properly and completely cured.
Cracks larger than 1/8 inch need to be repaired
before the epoxy goes on; cracks smaller
will be filled by the epoxy itself.
- Some floors may have to be prepared by scarifying
them before they are coated. Moisture conditions
may also affect the installation process.
It is important not to proceed until the
concrete is properly prepared, as fixing
a bad epoxy job is difficult and expensive.
- Epoxy yellows when it is exposed to sunlight.
The final coats of sealer used should be
a UV blocking clear urethane to prevent this
from happening.
If properly installed, an epoxy garage floor
will last forever and be extremely easy to
maintain. |
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