Garage floor coatings provide durable, long-lasting flooring solutions, helping concrete surfaces stand the test of time. However, proper installation is key to enjoying the longevity these concrete coatings offer.
Though the installation of concrete coatings involves a lot, floor preparation heavily determines the final results of your garage floor coating project.
This article will take a closer look at the preparation process, highlighting why professionals consider this a vital step in preparing your garage’s concrete floors before coating them.
Preparing Your Garage Floors Before Coating
Contrary to what some homeowners might think, installing concrete coating isn’t a straightforward process. It requires a lot of prep work if the project is to attain favorable, long-lasting results.
Let’s consider what proper concrete floor preparation involves.
Thorough Investigation of the Concrete Surface
Before preparing the concrete floor, it is vital to determine its condition. Professional contractors begin the installation process by investigating the concrete surface for any pre-existing coatings or additional toppings.
If they see a pre-existing coating, they will determine its type and how to best remove it.
The investigation also seeks to determine if the concrete is structurally sound and if they need to make repairs. These repairs will ensure a flat, even surface, free of any scratches.
Cleaning the Floor
Old, damaged garage floors are rarely clean. In most cases, they contain grease and oil stains that, if left, will affect the coating’s proper adhesion.
When cleaning the floor, soap and water alone will not suffice. You will need to use specialized machines and cleaning agents to attain the deep and complete cleaning this step requires.
Surface Profiling
The next step includes profiling your floor. It involves opening concrete pores and creating a rough surface to make it easier for the garage floor coatings to penetrate deep beyond the floor’s surface.
This process helps ensure a stronger bond and goes a long way in preventing premature peeling and early signs of fading.
The profiling technique will vary depending on the type of coating and the state of your garage floor. For instance, some professionals use an acid etching method that proves quite effective.
Measure the Moisture Level
When dealing with concrete, measuring the level of moisture is a crucial step. Though some contractors may quickly gauge the floor’s moisture level by looking at the surface, this approach is highly inefficient.
The surface’s moisture rarely shows the real condition of the entire concrete slab. Fortunately, professionals have a more effective approach.
Relative humidity testing refers to a proven technique that shows the precise degree of moisture your sealed concrete floors contain. The method offers fast and accurate readings and enables flooring contractors to determine the right time to install the coating system.
Without it, you risk installing the coating too soon or without adequate moisture mitigation. As a result, you could trap excess moisture inside the concrete and cause blistering, peeling, or de-bonding of the coating.
The Importance of Preparation Before Coating Your Garage Floor
Given the many steps involved and how daunting it might seem, some homeowners might consider skipping floor preparation entirely. However, doing so can place the entire coating project at risk.
In the beginning, you probably will not detect any problems with your coated floors. Though, over time, the issues will begin to show.
Thanks to their strength, impact, and chemical resistance, most coatings can last decades without peeling. However, failing to prepare the floor beforehand will greatly impact your coating’s longevity. Before long, your coating will begin to peel or detach.
Unfortunately, the only solution to this issue involves completely redoing the coating. Not only does this waste time, but it can also be extremely costly.
Ensuring you properly prepare your concrete floors helps you safeguard your long-term investment and avoid such situations.
Additional Factors Affecting Your Coating’s Longevity
Besides floor preparation, other factors will impact how long garage floor coatings will last. Let’s go over some of those key factors.
Foot Traffic
It is important to consider the amount of foot traffic you expect your garage floors to receive. Doing so will allow contractors to develop solutions that deliver coatings that will be able to withstand regular wear and tear as long as possible.
The Nature of the Environment
Though various coatings can handle the harshest environments, some cases will impact your flooring’s longevity. For instance, subjecting your coated floors to constant heavy loads, heavy impacts, and temperature extremities could shorten their lifespan.
Maintenance
Properly maintaining your coated floors will go a long way in extending their longevity. Fortunately, most coatings are easy to maintain and only require regular cleaning to retain their shine.
Quality Garage Floor Coatings in San Antonio, TX
Your garage can become more than a place you park your car. It can become an extension of your home’s living space.
Though routine wear and tear can wreak havoc on your garage’s concrete floor, installing a quality coating can help you remedy the situation. However, your coating’s success heavily depends on the installation company you work with.
At Global Garage Flooring & Design, we have a highly skilled team of contractors ready to dedicate their expertise to providing top-notch coating services. We use high-quality products and proven installation processes, guaranteeing satisfactory, long-lasting results.
Get Your Free Quote
Contact Global Garage Flooring & Design today at (512) 957-6982 to request your free quote and enjoy the best garage floor coatings in San Antonio, TX.
