Garage Floor Epoxy: What to Expect During the Installation Process

Your garage floor takes a beating. Between heavy vehicles, dropped tools, and fluctuating Raleigh, NC weather, it’s no wonder so many floors crack, stain, and wear down over time." Enter epoxy flooring—a durable, sleek solution that transforms your garage from drab to stunning while offering unmatched protection. But what exactly happens during the installation process?

Epoxy flooring installation is not just about slapping on a shiny coat of resin. It’s a detailed, multi-step process that requires skill, precision, and the right materials to ensure the finish lasts for years. Whether you’re considering upgrading your garage or just curious about how it all works, this guide will walk you through every stage of the process.

Why Choose Epoxy Flooring for Your Garage?
Before we get into the process, let’s talk about why epoxy flooring is such a popular choice for garages in Raleigh, NC:

• Unmatched Durability: Epoxy coatings protect your concrete from stains, cracks, and chemical damage, extending the life of your garage floor.
• Aesthetic Appeal: From high-gloss finishes to custom colors and patterns, epoxy flooring transforms the look of your garage.
• Easy Maintenance: Spills wipe away effortlessly, and the surface resists dirt and grime buildup.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to other flooring options, epoxy offers long-term value with minimal upkeep.

Step 1: Inspection and Preparation
Every great floor starts with proper preparation. A professional installer will begin by inspecting your existing concrete floor. They’ll look for cracks, stains, and moisture levels to determine if any repairs or adjustments are needed.

What to Expect:

• Crack Filling: Any visible cracks will be filled and smoothed to create an even surface.
• Cleaning: The floor is thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, grease, and debris. A clean surface ensures proper adhesion.
• Moisture Testing: Excess moisture in the concrete can cause the epoxy to fail. Professionals will test for moisture and address any issues before moving forward.

Step 2: Surface Grinding or Shot Blasting
Next comes surface preparation. This step ensures the epoxy adheres properly to the concrete. Installers use specialized equipment like grinders or shot blasters to roughen the surface and remove any old coatings or sealants.
Why It Matters:
A properly prepped surface creates the perfect texture for the epoxy to bond with, preventing peeling or bubbling down the line.

Step 3: Primer Application
Once the surface is clean and prepped, it’s time to apply a primer. The primer acts as a base coat, penetrating the concrete to create a strong bond for the epoxy.

What to Expect:

• The primer may take several hours to dry, depending on the conditions.
• It seals the concrete, ensuring the epoxy layers adhere smoothly.

Step 4: Applying the Epoxy Coating
Here’s where the magic happens! After the primer has dried, the first layer of epoxy is applied. Depending on your desired finish, this may involve a solid color or decorative additives like flakes or metallic pigments.

What to Expect:

• Base Coat: The installer applies the base layer of epoxy using rollers or squeegees.
• Optional Additives: For decorative finishes, colored flakes or metallic powders are broadcast across the wet epoxy.
• Curing Time: This layer typically takes 24 hours to cure before the next step.

Step 5: Topcoat for Protection and Shine
Once the epoxy base coat is fully cured, a clear topcoat is applied. This adds extra durability, enhances the floor’s gloss, and provides UV protection to prevent yellowing.

Why It’s Important:
The topcoat is what makes epoxy floors resistant to scratches, stains, and wear. It also enhances the appearance, giving your garage a polished, professional look.

Step 6: Final Curing and Inspection
After the topcoat is applied, the floor needs time to fully cure. This can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the type of epoxy and environmental conditions.

What to Expect:

• The installer will inspect the floor to ensure it’s flawless and meets quality standards.
• Once cured, the floor is ready for use—whether you’re parking cars or creating a workshop.

Tips to Prepare for Installation

1. Clear the Space: Make sure your garage is completely empty before the installers arrive.
2. Plan for Downtime: You’ll need to avoid using the garage for several days while the epoxy cures.
3. Ask Questions: Discuss your design preferences and any concerns with the installer beforehand.

How Long Does the Process Take?
The entire process usually takes 2–5 days, depending on the condition of your floor and the complexity of the design. While this might seem like a significant time investment, the results are worth it. A professionally installed epoxy floor can last 10–20 years with proper maintenance.

Why Hire Professionals for Epoxy Flooring?
​While DIY kits are available, achieving a durable, long-lasting epoxy floor requires professional-grade materials and expertise. Hiring experienced installers ensures:

• Precise application
• Proper surface preparation
• High-quality finishes
• Long-term durability

Invest in Your Garage with Epoxy Flooring
Epoxy flooring is more than just a surface—it’s a long-term investment in your garage's functionality and aesthetics. By understanding the installation process, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a seamless experience from start to finish.

Ready to upgrade your garage with epoxy flooring? Contact Brandon or Christy at (919) 273-4233 or email [email protected]. Prefer online? Fill out our contact form today and get started on a transformation you’ll love!