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Consider These Options Before Selecting New Garage Flooring
By AJ ATTIA
Epoxy
Epoxy can be poured over many surfaces, including concrete, to create a durable, protective seal that is easy to clean. Use a kit to install it yourself, or hire a contractor.
This fast-setting option isn’t for every floor, however. The coating becomes slippery when wet, will chip if your foundation is cracked, and doesn’t tolerate extreme temperatures.
Concrete Sealer
Sealers can be topical, coating the surface to insulate porous concrete from liquids or penetrating, which bond with the concrete without changing its appearance.
Both resist staining, UV damage, and temperature differences and can be applied using a DIY kit. Topical coats require reapplying, while penetrating ones are permanent.
Concrete Stain
Acid staining is the most popular concrete stain, protecting against UV rays. However, it does risk damaging the concrete and takes longer to apply than others.
Water-based stains cover the concrete in various colors, but they tend to fade over time. Concrete dye is transparent but does poorly in sunlight and can be a health risk.
Polyaspartic Coating
When bonded to concrete, the resin-based material provides durable, easy-to-clean insulation that will absorb heavy impacts and resist chemical erosion.
If moisture is in the concrete, it can prevent it from bonding correctly, impact durability, and cause fading. Mixing can result in air pockets, and it’s vulnerable to acids.
Polished Concrete
This complex process involves grinding and honing concrete slabs before polishing them for a glossy finish that is long-lasting, elegant, and easy to maintain.
While non-toxic, the process can be messy if you attempt it yourself. Also, if not sealed, the polished floor is susceptible to moisture, leading to mold buildup.