Get matched with top epoxy flooring pros in Walnut, IA

Resurfacing a garage floor takes about eight hours on average, with another couple hours over three days to do the epoxy. Epoxy goes on in three coats, with each coat taking 24 hours to dry and cure. You’ll need to keep foot and vehicle traffic off of your garage floor for around 4 days in total when replacing your garage floor, so be sure to plan ahead before you start. This is a great time to organize your garage since you’ll need to move everything out to apply the epoxy.

To prep a floor for painting, start by sweeping and cleaning any loose debris that could puncture the protective material. Take out as much furniture as possible. Then lay plastic, canvas, rosin paper, or masonite sheets across the room, securing them at the edges with masking tape. Plan your painting so that you minimize the chances you’ll step in and track any splatters.

As with anything you buy, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Some low-cost flooring products can contain chemicals that release harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in the form of fumes that can be inhaled or dust that can cause skin conditions.

Even good-quality products can be dangerous for DIY-ers who don’t take proper precautions. Always carefully read manufacturer instructions and wear the recommended protective gear when working with paints and other chemicals. You can also hire a local garage flooring pro with the experience and equipment needed to perform the installation safely with no lingering fumes or debris.

The type of paint you use on concrete influences how long it will last. Epoxy paint can last as long as 30 years and often comes with a warranty for at least 15 years. Another factor impacting the longevity of the paint is how much wear and tear the floors receive, such as heavy machinery or constant foot traffic, which can shorten the life span.