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.
To properly maintain an epoxy garage floor, regularly sweep up dirt and debris using a broom and dustpan or a vacuum cleaner. Mop with warm water and scrub away stains using a mild cleaning solution that's safe for the epoxy product you have installed. Don't use any soap-based or chemical cleaners, as these can cause the epoxy surface to deteriorate more rapidly.
Concrete can take years to fully settle, but interior concrete floors are mostly settled after a year. Shifting and settling can occur throughout your home’s life, but most major settling happens the first few years after the concrete is poured. It’s not uncommon for minor cracks to appear in concrete floors over time—check with a concrete pro to ensure new cracks don’t indicate a structural issue in your home.
The best way to resurface a concrete porch is to clean and prep the surface, pour a layer of concrete on top, allow it to cure, then seal it. A concrete overlay provides a durable layer and enhances your porch's look. You can even choose a stamped overlay to make it look like stone or brick. To ensure structural integrity, repair concrete cracks before applying the new concrete. If the existing concrete is in significant disrepair, consider removing and replacing the concrete instead of an overlay.
The actual moisture level that is acceptable for your concrete floor depends on what primer or flooring material you plan to install above it. For this reason, you should check the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact details.
Generally, the moisture levels should be 3.5% to 4.5%, although it does vary. Some products can handle higher levels of moisture, so you should always test your concrete before purchasing your flooring materials.
The Carlin, NV homeowners’ guide to epoxy flooring services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
This guide breaks down the cost of installing epoxy flooring in your garage, basement, or other space. Costs depend on resin type, floor size, and more.
Epoxy flooring adds shine and durability to your basement, studio, or garage floor. Check out these epoxy flooring ideas to create the room of your dreams.
