Is it Worth it to Epoxy Garage Floor?

Epoxy flooring has come a long way in recent years.

Epoxy is no longer just an industrial option for factories and warehouses and is now used to improve the look of your garage or workshop.

But how do you know if it’s worth the investment?

In this article, we examine the costs and benefits of epoxy garage flooring so you can make an educated decision.

Let’s get started.

1. Benefits of Epoxy Flooring

• Can improve the look and feel of your garage floor, making it more aesthetically pleasing.
• Adds durability to your old or cracked concrete surface. It can bond to any type of existing slab (concrete) and prevent further cracking and chipping.
• Resists stains from oil leaks and gas spills for easy maintenance. No need to scrub off the dirt. Just hose it down with soap and water once a week or as needed depending on how often you park your car in there; then rinse thoroughly with plain water after use (no harsh chemicals).
• It Will last at least 20 years with proper care.
• Has a seamless look that can add a professional touch to your garage.
• Is environmentally friendly and safe for children, pets, and the whole family.
• Can give you an extra sense of security by creating a solid surface that’s easy to clean in case of any spills or accidents (which is more than likely if there are kids around).
• But most importantly…it just looks nicer!

Here are other questions to consider when deciding if it is worth it to epoxy your garage floor:

2. Which Garage Type is Suitable for a Houston Epoxy Floor?

If you’re looking to epoxy your garage floor, there are a few things you need to consider first.

First and foremost: is the space big enough?

Epoxies can be applied over concrete but they require at least six inches of clean dry surface area for proper curing.

If you don’t have the space (or if it’s too small), epoxy paint may still work as an alternative option.

But be aware that painting will only last two years or so before needing another coat, which is not nearly as long as epoxy floors which can last up to 20 years with proper care.

Secondly, is your garage floor clean?

Epoxies require a very clean surface to adhere properly. If you have oil stains or other contaminants on the concrete, it will need to be completely cleaned before applying the epoxy.

If there are any cracks in the surface they’ll also need repairs first as well before being coated with epoxy for maximum durability and adhesion.

A professional can help determine if your space meets all of these requirements but typically only garages that are big enough for cars fit this criterion.

Lastly, is it a safe space?

Epoxies are chemical compounds so they do have their own odors and require ventilation equipment to be installed.

If you’re planning on coating your garage floor with epoxy, take these factors into account first before proceeding. They can help determine if the job is worth it.

With Xpedite Coatings, the answer is a resounding yes regarding safety, as our epoxy garage floor coating is 100% odor-free.

3. What to Consider Before Installing an Epoxy Garage

There is a lot to consider before installing an epoxy floor in your garage.

The first is the size and condition of the concrete space you’re working with.

If it’s smaller than six square feet, then an epoxy may not be suitable for this area as they require at least that much surface area for proper curing.

Additionally, if there is any oil or dirt on the concrete then it will need to be completely cleaned beforehand so all contaminants are removed.

Any cracks should also be repaired before applying the coatings as well since larger spaces can tolerate minor issues like these but small areas cannot. If you do have bigger cracks where water could potentially seep through them would cause more damage later on down the line.

If you’re not sure if your garage is suitable for an epoxy coating, it is usually best to consult with a professional.

Xpedite Coatings will come out and determine the condition of the space as well as offer suggestions on what type of epoxy floor coating would work best based on that assessment.

The other factor is cost.

Epoxies are more expensive than paints so they might not be right for everyone’s budget but depending on how long you plan on staying in your home, it could still save money over time versus having to repaint every few years.

You should also consider safety before installing any kind of new coating because some have toxic fumes associated with them which is why Xpedite Coatings has taken great care to make sure our epoxy is 100% odor-free.

4. How Long Does It Take To Install an Epoxy Garage Floor?

It takes several hours for one person to do the project alone. The time required will vary based on how many coats you have applied.

Average installations can be completed in two days with no curing time between coats; however, there are some coatings that require up to three days before they cure completely.

Also, remember that each coat has its own dry time so make sure you apply the paint at different times.

Typically, epoxy is applied as two coats. The first coat is done in sections and allowed to cure for 30 minutes before the next section is started.

This allows one person to do the job alone without other workers getting into each other’s way of making a mess of an unfinished area by stepping on it with work boots that track dirt onto freshly laid paint.

The second coat is then applied after all coats have been completed and will require overnight dry time before you can drive your car back inside.

Depending upon what color was used, curing may take up to 48 hours if not longer.

5.  What to Expect After You Install Your Houston Epoxy Flooring

For most epoxy floors, there will be a chemical odor that dissipates after 24 hours. However, the epoxy paint we use is formulated to emit no odor than is typical for most epoxy floors.

It is critical that you follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions closely and make sure your space is well ventilated while applying the paint.

If any fumes are inhaled during the application, they can cause dizziness or even nausea.

Make sure windows and doors remain open until 24 hours after all coats have been applied before closing them up with insulation panels so there is no chance of trapping harmful chemicals in your garage when installing an epoxy floor coating system.

You should also expect after you install an epoxy garage floor is that it is going to be a permanent solution.

Epoxy doesn’t peel and flake over time as paint does, so the surface is smooth and easy to clean.

If you accidentally drop a tool or something is dropped onto the floor, it won’t leave an ugly mark on your garage floor.

Epoxy flooring is hard, durable, and is resistant to oil, gas, or antifreeze spills as well as automotive fluids such as brake fluid and is a great way to protect your garage floor from the elements.

It is also a great solution for a garage floor that is subjected to high amounts of foot traffic or is needed for industrial space.

When the epoxy is cured, it is completely safe and will not emit harmful vapors or chemicals into the air.

Typically, a garage is left with a slightly textured surface after it is installed so that tire traction is increased and is easy to sweep.

6. How to Prevent Costly Epoxy Flooring Failures

The best way to prevent costly epoxy flooring is to have a quality product that is applied by knowledgeable professionals.

Epoxies are not something you want to try yourself unless you’ve done it before because there is no room for error with this type of project.

Make sure your garage is completely cleaned and any stains or oil spots are removed first so the coating sticks properly.

Be sure the surface is free from dirt, dust, grease, or other contaminants as well so the paint adheres correctly without peeling off in high traffic areas after installation.

You also want to make sure you hire a reputable epoxy flooring installer that only uses superior products.

There is a lot of cheap, low-grade epoxy on the market that is not going to last long.

Do your research and find an installer you can trust.

It is also important they have plenty of experience in installing garage floor coatings so there aren’t any mistakes or accidents during application since it is a permanent solution once done correctly.

Garage floors are extremely tough surfaces with high levels of wear and tear from cars being driven in and out all day every day as well as spills, mud tracked inside by shoes, oil, and antifreeze leaks from car engines.

This means epoxy garage floor coating must be able to stand up to even more abuse than a traditional concrete floor which makes them a great option for a garage floor coating.

7. What About Full Broadcast Floors?

The process of broadcasting epoxy floors is a form of resurfacing that’s used to repair old concrete surfaces without the need for major restoration or tear-out.

A full broadcast floor is a great option for garage floors that have begun to deteriorate over time, but it is not typically used as a permanent solution.

So because most homeowners are not looking for a temporary flooring solution, a broadcast garage floor coating is not recommended.

8. Houston Epoxy Garage Floors Process

Day 1: Floor Preparation

Proper installation for your garage epoxy flooring starts with floor preparation. This is the most critical part of the entire process that is often overlooked when installing epoxy flooring.

In order to have a functional floor coating for your garage project, the underlying concrete must be thoroughly cleaned with a special grinder that is fitted with a vacuum attachment.

This crucial step is often overlooked when using a do-it-yourself kit.

Our grinder has a diamond head that grinds the floor and opens the concrete pores to ensure the epoxy coatings penetrate deeply into every square foot of the concrete floor.

We also repair any cracks or holes that the garage floor may have.

We next apply 100% solid epoxy as opposed to solvent or water-based epoxy coating.

Solid epoxy is an industrial-grade product that provides a thicker and more durable garage floor coating.

Next, we cover the epoxy with chips and flakes which makes the floor scratch-resistance and anti-slip. It also hides any imperfections the concrete may have.

Day 2: Applying epoxy

On Day 2, we apply a clear polyurethane top coat that is stain-resistant that further protects your concrete investment.

Day 3: Can walk on the floor

On day 3, you can now walk on the floor and move in your belongings.

And in 3-5 days you can park your car on the garage floor once the concrete coating has completely cured.

9. Costs of Epoxy Flooring

The costs of epoxy flooring can vary depending on the materials used and how complex you want your project to be.

For instance, you can paint a cheap epoxy kit for around $60, cross your fingers, and hope you do it right. But be aware, a DIY job will need to be replaced often, as epoxy kits have a very limited lifespan.

Or you can hire Houston epoxy garage floor professionals like Xpediate Coatings that will install it right the first time, which will last for many years to come.

We recommend a professional job regardless of the size, as it will be done right and last longer than DIY epoxy kits that you can get from the hardware store.

Initial costs will vary depending on the square footage of your garage, how you want it done (basic or complex), and what materials you choose.

The cost of Houston epoxy floors also depends on the flooring system you choose: a two-component epoxy system or an acrylic flooring system.

Both systems are durable but here are some pros and cons of each:

Two-Component Epoxy System Pros

The two-component epoxy system offers more structural support than the acrylic option. It’s also less slippery than acrylic.

The two-component can be used on any type of surface, including non-porous surfaces like tile or sealed concrete floors. It can also withstand extreme conditions, including under the carport where it’s exposed to harsh sunlight.

Two-Component Epoxy System Cons

The two-component epoxy system offers fewer color options since it’s more industrial. It also costs more than the acrylic option.

It also requires a solvent-based cleaning method before applying the epoxy, which can be toxic and require special ventilation.

Acrylic Flooring System Pros

The acrylic flooring system can come in a variety of colors and styles. You’ll have more design options to choose from.

It also has less odor than the two-component epoxy system, which can be toxic when in use.

Acrylic Flooring System Cons

The acrylic flooring system is not as durable or long-lasting compared to a two-component epoxy floor. It’s more prone to chipping and cracking over time due to its softer composition.

This means it needs much more upkeep to maintain its appearance for many years to come (but still far less maintenance than painting).

The acrylic flooring system also only comes in a solvent-based cleaning method, which can be harsh on the environment and require ventilation.

Every garage floor project is different but prices will vary depending on:

• the square footage of your garage
• how complex the job
• the type of flooring system you choose (two-component epoxy vs acrylic

For the Xpedite Coatings epoxy garage floor coating, which provides you with the best flooring solutions in Houston, and is backed by a full 15-year warranty, the cost for this professional installation is $350/square foot.

Conclusion

Investing in a garage epoxy floor is a great option for anyone who wants to improve the look and feel of their garage, make it last longer, and are looking for a great investment.

There is really no other garage flooring material that is heat resistant, highly durable, that requires no special cleaning acids for oil spills, that can resist moisture, and have no strong toxic fumes than Xpediate Coatings properly installed Houston epoxy floors.

Do you currently have an epoxy garage floor? What are your thoughts about it?

And for those that have been thinking about upgrading their garage floor, give us a call at (713)365-0444 for a quick quote.