Garage floors are constantly exposed to a variety of materials. They’re sprayed with water, grease, and automotive fluids by cars, swept and vacuumed, and subjected to temperature fluctuations.
Standard carpets should never be installed in a garage as it’s not designed to handle car tires. But there are some other great flooring options for your garage.
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Epoxy Coating
If your garage floors are prone to stains and scratches, you can give them a new lease on life with an epoxy coating. This durable floor solution is resistant to chemicals, rust, and stains and provides a professional look to any garage space.
Epoxy flooring requires preparation and care to maintain its longevity. First, sweep the floor to remove any debris. A degreaser should ensure the concrete surface is fully prepared for applying the epoxy coating.
If you apply the epoxy yourself, ensure you are working on a dry day and above 50 degrees. Mix the epoxy resin and hardener according to the instructions on the product label. Once mixed, apply the coating using a roller brush attached to a pole. You can sprinkle color flakes over the epoxy while still wet if desired.
Rubber Mats
Having a regular cleaning schedule will prevent abrasive particles from scratching the floor and chemical damage from stains or spills. Placing drip trays under your vehicles will help to catch and contain oil and other fluids that can damage the garage flooring Seattle. Make sure to empty and clean these trays daily to avoid overflowing.
Another great solution is to purchase large mats that can be swept, vacuumed, or hosed down. One of the best is the Hanjet garage car floor mat with raised edges to trap oil and water. It also has stay-put corners to keep the mat from moving around.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider this oil spill mat made of thick polyester fabric that is super absorbent and can even contain battery acid spills. It is also easy to clean and can cover any pre-existing cracks in the garage floor.
Interlocking Tiles
Interlocking garage tiles are a popular and inexpensive choice for many homeowners. They look great and withstand the abuse of tires, spills, and other daily life agitators. These plastic tiles are hollow underneath, allowing the concrete beneath to soak up moisture, which can help prevent damage to your floor.
When installing the tiles, it is recommended that you start at one wall and work your way around the room. It’s important to remember that you need to cut each tile for a snug fit against the walls. The best way to do this is with a utility knife, scoring deeply and bending the tile over a table or other solid surface to snap it off. Do not make any cuts on the front edge of the tile (facing the garage door). This will cause your pattern to be off-center.
Area Rugs
A runner rug placed in high-traffic areas helps to prevent damage to flooring. It helps to protect against spills, stains, and scuffs from shoes, and it can help keep dust off the floor that can be tracked into your home.
Rubber mats have a no-slip surface that is very safe. They are also easy to clean. They can be swept with a push broom and washed with a garden hose or a bucket of warm water and laundry detergent.
It is important to mop the garage floor regularly to keep it in good condition. Make sure to use a degreasing solution mixed according to label instructions with a gallon of warm water and scrubbed using a nylon-bristled brush.
Sealant
Your garage is a multi-functional space for storage, DIY projects, and various activities. Unsurprisingly, it takes a beating from the elements and is exposed to heavy traffic. This makes it critical to protect your garage floor and increase its longevity.
Sweeping regularly will prevent abrasive material from damaging the surface. A regular cleaning schedule will also help you identify potential damage before it becomes a serious issue.
Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as these can damage your concrete coating. Instead, use a pH-neutral and phosphate-free cleaner. In addition, proper ventilation is crucial to reduce moisture buildup. This will prevent mildew and mold from growing on the floor and prevent stains. Applying a sealant will further protect your garage floor and make it more stain-resistant.
