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?

This article examines the costs and benefits of epoxy garage flooring so you can make an educated decision.

Let’s get started.

Unleashing the Power of Garage Floor Epoxy Benefits

Garage floor epoxy is a revolutionary solution that can dramatically transform your garage space.

Let’s explore the myriad benefits and why you should consider it for your garage.

▪️ Enhanced Aesthetics with Epoxy Flooring

One of the most noticeable advantages of epoxy flooring is its ability to improve the look and feel of your garage floor.

This robust epoxy coating brings a seamless and glossy finish, making your garage more appealing and professional.

It’s not just about practicality; it’s about creating a space you, your family, and even your neighbors will admire.

▪️ Durability: The Hallmark of Epoxy Floor Coatings

Garage floors withstand heavy-duty use and harsh conditions.

An epoxy floor coating offers exceptional durability, bonding to existing concrete and preventing further cracking and chipping.

Whether you have a new epoxy floor or an existing concrete one, epoxy coatings provide a lasting coating.

▪️ Maintenance Made Easy

Epoxy garage floors resist stains from common garage culprits like oil leaks, gas spills, and hot tire pickup.

This resilient surface makes maintenance a breeze.

Forget the endless scrubbing; a simple hose down with soap and water followed by a thorough rinse is all it takes to keep your epoxy floor looking brand new.

▪️ Longevity of Garage Floor Epoxy Coating

For longevity, garage floor epoxy coating stands out.

Expect your epoxy coating to last at least 20 years with proper care.

Over time, this means less hassle and more value for your money.

▪️ Safety and Environmental Friendliness

Epoxy floor coatings are beautiful, durable, safe, and environmentally friendly.

They create a solid, easy-to-clean surface, which is especially important if you have children or pets.

Most epoxies are fire-resistant, adding extra safety to your home.

▪️ The Epoxy Curing Process

The curing process is integral to the effectiveness of epoxy coatings.

The chemical reaction between the epoxy resin and the polyamine hardener produces a strong bond and a complex, resilient surface.

Though it may take about seven days to cure fully, this process ensures your garage floor can withstand chemical spills, foot traffic, and even hot tires.

▪️ The Glossy Finish of Epoxy Paint

Epoxy paint gives your garage floor a glossy appearance that looks good and reflects light well.

This can help brighten your garage, making it easier to work in.

Plus, the final coat of epoxy paint seals in the previous layers, creating a barrier against wear and tear.

▪️ A Wise Investment

Investing in a garage floor epoxy coating is wise for any homeowner.

Not only does it enhance the aesthetics of your garage, but it also adds durability, reduces maintenance and lasts for years.

Remember, the entire process, from drying application, requires proper preparation and patience.

But once completed, you’ll have a garage floor that’s both functional and beautiful.

Which Garage Type is Suitable for a Houston Epoxy Floor Coating?

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 require at least six inches of clean, dry surface area for proper curing.

If you don’t have the space (or it’s too small), epoxy paint may still be 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 concrete surface to adhere properly.

Oil stains or other contaminants on the concrete must be completely cleaned before applying the epoxy.

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

A professional can help determine if your space meets all 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 with their own odors and require the installation of ventilation equipment.

If you plan on coating your garage floor with epoxy, consider these factors 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 garage floor epoxy is 100% odor-free.

What to Consider Before Installing an Epoxy Garage

Before installing an epoxy floor in your garage, there is a lot to consider.

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

If it’s smaller than six square feet, then 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.

Cracks should be repaired before applying the coatings since larger spaces can tolerate minor issues, 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 unsure if your garage is suitable for an epoxy coating, it is usually best to consult a professional.

Xpedite Coatings will come out and determine the space’s condition and 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 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, so Xpedite Coatings has taken great care to ensure our epoxy product is 100% odor-free.

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, some coatings require up to three days before completely curing.

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

Typically, epoxy is applied in 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 applied after all coats have been completed and will require overnight dry time before you can drive your car back inside.

Depending on the color used, curing may take up to 48 hours, if not longer.

What to Expect After You Install Your Houston Epoxy Flooring

For most epoxy floors, a chemical odor will dissipate after 24 hours.

However, the epoxy paint we use is formulated to emit no odor that is typical for most epoxy floors.

You must 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.

Ensure 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 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 onto the floor, it won’t leave an ugly mark on your garage floor.

Epoxy flooring is hard, durable, and resistant to oil, gas, or antifreeze spills and 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 subjected to high foot traffic or is needed for industrial space.

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

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

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.

Ensure 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 so the paint adheres correctly without peeling off in high-traffic areas after installation.

You also want to hire a reputable epoxy flooring company and installer that only uses superior products.

There is a lot of cheap, low-grade epoxy on the market that will not 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 daily, spills, mud tracked inside by shoes, and oil and antifreeze leaks from car engines.

This means epoxy coating must withstand even more abuse than a traditional concrete floor, making them a great option for garage floors.

What About Full Broadcast Floors?

The process of broadcasting epoxy floors is a form of resurfacing used to repair old concrete surfaces without needing 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.

Xpedite Coating’s Epoxy Garage Floors Process

Step into a new garage aesthetics and durability era with Xpedite Coating’s Epoxy Garage Floor Process.

This process is designed with you in mind, providing an upgrade that enhances the visual appeal of your garage and its lifespan.

Let’s make your garage a space that truly serves your needs and withstands the test of time.

▪️ Day 1: Floor Preparation

Proper installation for your garage epoxy flooring starts with floor preparation.

This is the most critical part of the installation process, often overlooked when installing epoxy flooring.

To have a functional floor coating for your garage project, the underlying concrete must be thoroughly cleaned with a special grinder 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 instead of solvent or water-based epoxy coating.

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

Next, we cover the epoxy with chips and flakes, making 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.

Costs of Epoxy Flooring

The epoxy flooring costs 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, lasting many years.

We recommend a professional job regardless of the size, as it will be done right and last longer than DIY epoxy kits 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 or an acrylic one.

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 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.

▪️ Acrylic Flooring System Cons

The acrylic flooring system is less durable or long-lasting than 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 (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 the best flooring solutions in Houston and is backed by a full 15-year warranty, this professional installation costs $350/square foot.

Garage Floor Epoxy 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 no other garage flooring material that is heat resistant, highly durable, 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 thinking about upgrading their garage floor, call us at (713)365-0444 for a quick quote.