Concrete garage floor paint is an epoxy-type paint that is created by mixing two components together before applying it to the concrete floor surface. Typically found in professional workshops and upscale home garages, concrete garage floor paint adds not only a professional appearance to an otherwise plain concrete floor, but also adds protection. Offered in a myriad of colors, concrete garage floor paint provides an oil-resistant barrier that prevents damage and staining to the garage floor. Since cement floors can become slippery when wet, concrete garage floor paint can be applied with sand embedded in it to provide sure footing even when the floor becomes wet.
The first step in the decision to cover the floor with concrete garage floor paint is to decide on a color and pattern. While a single color is typically easiest to apply, multi-colored paint and an original design scheme can make a garage stand out. When deciding on a pattern, design or multi-colors, a base coat is typically applied first in a light color, then masked off before the darker colors are applied. With some designs, small vinyl pieces are spread over the wet paint and allowed to dry, creating a special one-of-a-kind design. Other designs incorporate a vinyl decal applied to the dried concrete garage floor paint.
Prior to the application of any paint, the floor must be cleaned thoroughly. Any grease or oil remaining on the floor can pose a disaster for the freshly applied paint. Manufacturers of the different concrete garage floor paint types often recommend specific cleaners and directions to be used with the paint chosen for the job. Aside from cleanliness and chemical compatibility, temperature is also an important factor in the successful application of concrete garage floor paint. Warm and dry weather is usually preferred by most manufacturers.
The preferred method of applying concrete garage floor paint is with a roller or squeegee. As the epoxy dries, it flows into cracks and crevices to create a smooth floor surface. The tough, smooth surface makes it less difficult to move shop tools and equipment around the garage. Simple cleaning tasks such as sweeping up dirt and debris are also made easier by eliminating the pesky cracks that store dirt and pull it from the broom's bristles. The thick epoxy paint also creates a moisture barrier on the concrete, making a drier and warmer floor for the mechanic who may often be required to lie on his back under a vehicle.