Garage Floor Epoxy Coat - Comprehensive Step-By-Step Guide | Builds by Maz

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for applying an epoxy coat to your garage floor. With the right materials and a bit of effort, you can achieve a professional finish at a fraction of the cost of hiring a contractor. This guide will walk you through the preparation and application process, ensuring you have all the necessary tools and materials for a successful project.

Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools

Before starting your project, make sure you have the following materials and tools:

• Zep Degreaser: For cleaning the floor
• Concrete Grinder Rental: To prepare the surface
• Diamabrush Attachment: For the concrete grinder
• Rustoleum EpoxyShield Kits: Choose between 2.5 car or 1 car kits based on your garage size
• Anti-Skid Additive: For added traction
• Decorative Chips: Optional for a decorative finish
• Drill Mixer: For mixing the epoxy
• Spiked Sandals: To walk on the wet epoxy without leaving footprints

Practical Tip

Purchase all materials in advance to avoid delays during the project.

Step 2: Prepare the Garage Floor

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful epoxy application. Follow these steps:

1. Clear the Garage: Remove all items from the garage floor.
2. Clean the Floor:
   • Use Zep Degreaser to thoroughly clean the surface.
   • Rinse well and allow it to dry completely.
3. Grind the Surface:
   • Rent a concrete grinder and attach the Diamabrush.
   • Grind the entire surface to remove any old coatings and create a rough texture for better adhesion.
4. Sweep and Vacuum: After grinding, sweep up dust and vacuum the area to ensure it is clean.

Common Pitfall

Skipping the cleaning and grinding process can lead to poor adhesion and a failed epoxy application.

Step 3: Mix the Epoxy

Once the floor is prepared, it's time to mix your epoxy.

1. Follow Instructions: Read the Rustoleum EpoxyShield instructions carefully.
2. Mix the Components:
   • Use the drill mixer to combine the two parts of the epoxy thoroughly.
   • If using, add the anti-skid additive and mix again.

Practical Tip

Only mix as much epoxy as you can apply within the recommended working time to avoid it setting before you finish.

Step 4: Apply the Epoxy

With the epoxy mixed, you're ready to apply it to the floor.

1. Start in a Corner: Begin applying the epoxy at the farthest corner of the garage.
2. Use a Roller: Use a paint roller to apply the epoxy evenly across the floor.
3. Add Decorative Chips (Optional):
   • While the epoxy is still wet, sprinkle decorative chips evenly across the surface for additional texture and aesthetics.
4. Wear Spiked Sandals: This will help you maneuver without disturbing the wet epoxy.

Common Pitfall

Avoid applying too thick a layer of epoxy, as this can lead to bubbling and uneven curing.

Step 5: Allow to Cure

After application, let the epoxy cure properly.

1. Follow Curing Times: Refer to the product instructions for specific curing times.
2. Avoid Traffic: Keep the garage closed and free from traffic until fully cured.

Conclusion

Applying an epoxy coat to your garage floor is a manageable DIY project that can enhance your garage's appearance and durability. Remember to prepare the surface thoroughly, mix and apply the epoxy as directed, and allow adequate curing time for the best results. With these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking finish without breaking the bank. Happy renovating!