There are several factors to consider when choosing garage epoxy floor paint. These factors include durability, colors, surface preparation, and cost. Choosing the right garage epoxy paint can be challenging, but it is worth it in the long run. Listed below are some tips to make your decision easier. Before you begin, be sure to do your research before making a final decision. You’ll be glad you did! Listed below are some of the main benefits of garage epoxy paint.
Durability
Garage epoxy floor paint is an excellent way to protect your garage floor from the elements. This coating provides a scratch-resistant, durable surface that will protect your floors for years. This coating will also protect your garage’s interior from moisture and stains. This coating also helps prevent hot tires from slipping and sliding on the floor.
Garage epoxy floor paint is a thermosetting resin made from a polyamine hardener and epoxide resin. Its strength and durability come from the development of polymer structures in the resin. However, this type of coating is more expensive and requires more time to cure.
Colors
Choosing the right color for your garage epoxy floor paint is vital to the aesthetics and function of your garage. For the best results, choose a color that complements the color of your vehicle. White and black metallic epoxy floors go well with red and black cars, respectively. Conversely, if you’re buying a new car, you may want to go for a white or black epoxy floor paint. If your car is a dark shade, a white or black epoxy floor paint will make its color pop.
There are many options for garage epoxy floor paint colors. The darker colors are more noticeable when dust and dirt accumulate on them, so opt for a lighter color if you plan on storing your car. Lighter colors are ideal for garages where sunlight isn’t as bright.
Surface preparation
Before you start applying an epoxy coating on your garage floor, make sure that the area is properly prepared. Most garage floors require about a full day of preparation before the actual coating can be applied. The surface should be roughed up with 120 grit sandpaper and cleaned with denatured alcohol. You can then apply your second coat of epoxy. This second coat will either be a color coat or a top coat. The mixing instructions for the second coat of epoxy are similar to those for the first coat.
The concrete floor must be clean and free of oil stains before applying the garage epoxy floor paint. The floor should also be free of any tire dressing, which acts as a sealer and repels water. You should also remove any old glue or mastics from the surface.
Cost
One option for the low-budget garage owner is water-based epoxy kits. While this is a logical alternative, it is important to be realistic about your expectations. Some water-based epoxy kits may only last a few years and require a second coat. A higher-end option is full-broadcast epoxy, which has multiple layers for better durability and a more aesthetically pleasing finish.
An epoxy kit costs about $50 to $600, depending on the square footage of the garage and the type of epoxy used. The price also depends on the number of coats needed. Some kits include all the materials and tools needed to apply the epoxy. However, some kits may not include additional items, which can add another $200 to the overall cost. The installation process usually requires two or more people. The entire process can take up to nine hours.
Application
Garage epoxy floor paint is very tough, making it an ideal choice for use in a garage. This type of floor coating is durable enough to handle harsh chemicals used for car care. It also keeps out the harsh elements. With a high level of impact resistance, you can even use it to protect your garage’s floor from falling tools and free weights.
First, prep the floor area for the application of the epoxy. You should sweep the floor to remove dirt and dust. Next, you should dust the floor and corners with an old paintbrush. Once the floor is dust-free, use a roller to spread the epoxy evenly.