It will take very little time before the entire epoxy garage floor start looking ugly, once you notice that the epoxy paint has started to peel off. Such issues may also happen prematurely if there is too much of moisture in the slabs. To make sure everything is proper and as desired, you will need to do some tests beforehand. Unfortunately, the plastic sheeting test is not reliable, though, it is most commonly followed. A more useful method is to use the calcium chloride testing kits for the most accurate results. The best time to conduct such test is during the spring as the soil is damp.
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Epoxy Garage Floor |
Using the Store-Bought Kits
You can use the store-bought kits for treating the epoxy garage floor, but there are a few tips and tricks to follow in order to get it done perfectly.
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To start with, you should follow the instructions on the label of these kits to the last word as these directions are printed for a reason.
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The floor may become very slippery when wet and if the area you live in has such humid climatic condition, it is better to use an anti-slip additive. This will enhance wet performance and also reduce slip hazards at the same time.
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Only use professional and recommended version of epoxy garage floor even if these are a bit more expensive. Professional coats are thicker and more durable.
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Read a few good reviews and get an idea about the pricing of the professional epoxy kits. Do not be confused with paint and epoxy coatings.
Finally, you should not consider these DIY epoxy kits as good as those higher performing commercial quality epoxy coatings.
Tips to Install
There are a few specific processes to follow while coating your epoxy garage floor and the effectiveness and success of such a project depends largely on the preparation process. If you do not prepare the surface well, then the coating can chip and peel, irrespective of its price and manufacturing brand. Make sure all objects are removed to have a clear floor space. You must sweep the floor area, thoroughly, using a leaf blower on low speed. This will remove even the hard to see dust and dirt particles from the floor. You must tape the baseboards, edges, and steps to limit the epoxy covers.
Make sure that you repair any chips and damages on the concrete floor and remove the gas stains using a heavy-duty degreaser and scrub brush. Rinse the floor well and apply concrete etch and citric acid to create tiny grooves for the epoxy coat to adhere. Wait for the floor to dry completely.
Apply the Epoxy
The next step is to apply the epoxy coating. Mix the chemicals in the can and start by applying at the trim areas.
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Use a two-inch brush and a standard paint roller, along with a nap, to cover the floor or use a roller extender for better results.
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If you are using paint chips then toss them onto the floor after applying the epoxy coat, but never mix it in the can.
The entire process takes one coat only, but make sure that the day is not windy to prevent leaves, twigs and other contaminants are blown onto the epoxy garage floor.
Let It Dry
Now that you are done with your epoxy garage floor, it is time to wait for the floor to dry completely. Though it will dry in a couple of hours but be depending on the humidity and temperature you may have to wait overnight. Allow three to seven days for it to cure completely.
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