Did you know that more homeowners are beautifying their garages? It may be where the car is parked and holiday decorations are stored. But, decorating your garage is one way to enjoy the space more. However, beautifying the garage floor can also include waterproofing it. Doing this adds so much more to your garage; you won’t believe you waited.
Waterproofing a Garage
Waterproofing a garage is essential for the safety of your foundation and the things you store inside it. Minnesotans know how much water damage they can sustain because of snow. Heavy rains are also a primary culprit to damage in a garage. To keep it lasting a long time, waterproofing the garage is the best answer.
How To Waterproof Your Garage Floor
Waterproofing your garage floor is a long job but well worth the effort. You can expect it to take a few days to cure fully. The best time of the year for Minnesotans to waterproof the garage is when they are winterizing the rest of the home. With so much to do to prepare for the harsh winter, The Concrete Guy is here to help.
Prepare the garage floor space
Before we arrive, you can help by preparing the garage. The floor must be free of any boxes, vehicles, and debris. Sweeping and vacuuming the floor is ideal so that you can make a clear assessment of the flooring. It’s advised not to wear shoes when cleaning the floors. You should also avoid walking in and out to prevent tracking debris.
Inspect The Area
Once everything is prepped, it’s time to give a thorough inspection of your garage floor. You are looking for uneven areas, cracks, and holes. Although the floor coating can act as a filler, the floor is still compromised. Therefore, you want the most durable garage floor possible. When we arrive, we will also do an inspection. We often find specific areas the average homeowners don’t think to look at. Don’t stress though, we are here to help!
Fix Any Damage
We will then take great care to fix the damage that is present so that your floor is even. This is an important step to ensure that we correctly create the waterproof seal.
Apply Floor Paint
Painting the floor is as simple as an epoxy coating. It doesn’t take much more than the usual paint rollers, but there are things to remember for this project.
First, selecting your paints can be overwhelming. There are tons of colors, and you can choose between water-based or oil-based paints. Oil-based is longer lasting and has a high-gloss finish. The choice of paint is a personal preference.
The concrete floor must be roughened up a bit before we apply the paint. We will use acid, a sander, or a grinder to roughen up the floor.
Once we have painted the garage floor, we will need to give it 24 hours to dry between each coat and 1-2 days to completely dry before applying the epoxy garage floor coating.
Apply The Epoxy Floor Coating
Applying the epoxy floor coating involves a couple of steps to create the epoxy. We have to then move it to the floor and roll it out in an even coat. If you have chosen any decorative chips, we will add them once the epoxy has been applied. To get a good waterproof seal, we need to apply two coats of epoxy coating
Drying between coatings is 24 hours. A car will be able to be moved into the garage within 3 days of the last coat. It can take a bit longer sometimes. If that is the case, our expert team will inform you of that before we proceed with the job.
Advantages of Garage Waterproofing
With any home improvement or commercial garage project, waterproofing comes with plenty of advantages. These include:
Strengthens and adds life to the garage floor
Prevents mold and mildew growth
Reduces your maintenance costs when cleaned properly
Can increase your property value
- It makes your garage just as beautiful as the rest of your home.
If you have been considering waterproofing your garage floor, give us a call. We have years of expertise that can save you time and money on your home improvement project.
Why Should I Choose Epoxy Coatings for My Garage Floor?
The benefits of Epoxy coatings include their durability, waterproofing capabilities, and resistance to chemicals and stains. They provide long-lasting protection for the underlying concrete and offer a sleek, polished look that enhances your garage’s appearance. Additionally, they are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical solution for many homeowners.
How Long Does Waterproof Garage Flooring Last?
The lifespan of waterproof garage flooring depends on the type of material used. Epoxy coatings can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, or even longer with proper maintenance. Other waterproof options, like rubber tiles or PVC, also offer longevity but may vary based on the quality of installation and usage.
Can I Install Waterproof Garage Flooring Myself?
Some waterproof garage flooring options, like interlocking rubber or PVC tiles, can be easily installed as a DIY project. However, epoxy coatings and more advanced systems often require professional installation to ensure proper application and durability.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Epoxy for Garage Flooring?
As you consider installing an epoxy floor in your garage, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.
Advantages: Epoxy floors are highly resistant to water, stains, and chemicals, making them durable and long-lasting. They also provide a smooth, glossy finish that’s easy to maintain and enhances the garage’s aesthetic.
Disadvantages: Epoxy floors can be slippery when wet, and installation may require professional expertise, increasing the overall cost. They may also need re-coating after a few years, depending on wear and tear.
