Apply Garage Floor Coating Like A Pro

Installing a garage floor coating can be an easy weekend project. Once you learn the procedure, you can use virtually any epoxy paint or product you choose. For your own safety, be sure to wear gloves and boots that will keep the product from coming in contact with your skin.

Tools

• Bristle broom
• Etching solution
• Epoxy paint
• Top coat
  
• 3-inch paintbrush
• Roller with long handle
• Paint chips (if you desire)
  

Step 1: Etching

If your floor is new, or bare of any paint, sweep it to remove dirt and dust. If the floor is covered with old paint, scuff the old paint and use an all-purpose cleaner to remove it, as well as any dust or debris.

If the floor is new, or if it has not been painted, it will need to be etched. Using a bristle broom and a floor cleaner, sweep and scrub the floor, taking care to clean dust and dirt out from all corners where you'll be applying the epoxy. Then thoroughly rinse the floor.

When the floor is dry, mix an etching solution with water, following the manufacturer's instructions. After pouring the solution on a small area of the floor, use a bristle broom to scrub the area covered with the etching solution. Continue this method to cover the rest of the floor, one small area at a time. When you've covered and scrubbed the entire floor, rinse it and allow it to dry again.

Step 2: Epoxy Coat

Mix the epoxy paint with the hardener that came with it, making sure it is stirred thoroughly but quickly. Mix only an amount you can spread within a 2-hour time period. When mixed, cover it and set it away from heat and direct sunlight.

After it has set for approximately 30 minutes (enough time for it to begin curing), spread the epoxy on the floor, starting with the floor edges. Using a 3-inch paintbrush, paint a wide strip around the outside of the area to be covered. Be sure all seams and corners are covered.

When finished with the brush, use a roller with an long handle and roll the epoxy coat onto the floor in small sections, as you had done with the etching material. Roll first in a parallel direction, then vertically, until you've covered the entire floor.

Now, if you want color flakes on your floor, sprinkle them evenly onto the paint while it is still wet. When finished, allow the coating to dry 12 hours or more, depending on humidity and temperature.

Step 3: Top Coat

When the painted floor is no longer tacky to the touch, apply  the top coat with the same method you used earlier to apply the paint. First, use a paintbrush to cover the fringe areas, then a roller to evenly cover the whole floor. Allow it to dry for at least a day before you walk on it or drive a car onto it.