Guest article provided by: unitedfloorcoatings.com
In the realm of home improvement projects, few endeavors offer the same blend of affordability and visual impact as installing epoxy or polyaspartic garage floors. These polymer floor coatings not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garage but also provide long-lasting durability and protection. Let’s delve into why epoxy and polyaspartic garage floors are considered one of the most economical yet high-impact home improvement projects you can undertake.
For most homeowners, a few thousand dollars can completely transform their garage from a utilitarian space, to a completely functional, organized space that feels more like a piece of the home’s interior. Few home improvement projects can have such a dramatic impact for such a low cost.
What are Polymer Floors?
Polymer garage floors, including epoxy and polyaspartic coatings, are durable and chemical-resistant flooring solutions that are applied directly onto concrete garage floors. Epoxy coatings are made from epoxy resins mixed with hardeners, while polyaspartic coatings are a type of polyurethane coating known for their rapid curing time and UV stability. These coatings create a seamless, glossy finish that not only enhances the appearance of your garage but also protects the underlying concrete from stains, cracks, and abrasions.
Typically, for garage floor installations, epoxy is best suited as a basecoat while polyaspartic is used as a topcoat. Polyaspartic can be used for both coats, but epoxies are able to be applied thicker, so they generally provide a sturdier basecoat with a stronger bond to to concrete than polyaspartic coatings. Polyaspartics have superior abrasion resistance, UV stability, and better chemical resistance, making them the best choice as your topcoat.
How Much Do Garage Floor Coatings Cost?
The cost of installing epoxy or polyaspartic garage floors varies depending on factors such as the size of your garage, the condition of the existing concrete, and the type of coating you choose. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5 to $8 per square foot for epoxy garage floors and slightly higher for polyaspartic coatings. While this initial investment may seem significant, the long-term benefits and durability of polymer floor coatings make them a cost-effective solution compared to other flooring options.
How Long Do Garage Floor Coatings Last?
One of the key advantages of epoxy and polyaspartic garage floors is their exceptional durability and longevity. When properly installed and maintained, these coatings can last for up to 10 years or more, providing long-term protection for your garage floor. United Floor Coatings, an installer providing epoxy garage floors in Charlotte, NC, offers lifetime adhesion warranties on interior residential applications. They say that using high quality products with regular cleaning and occasional resealing can help prolong the lifespan of your garage floor coatings, ensuring that they continue to look and perform their best for years to come.
It is important for customers to do their research and know that all epoxy and polyaspartic garage floor products are not created equal. Be well informed when making your decision. Ask to see spec sheets for the products being used. Products with high elongation and low abrasion test results are going to provide the longest lasting garage floor surfaces. Total floor thickness is also important, not just the number of coats that are applied.It is entirely possible that a coating with fewer coats could still be applied at a millage that is thicker than a coating with more coats. Always ask what the final dry-film millage for your garage floor coating is to ensure maximum longevity.
Do Garage Floor Coatings Add Value to Your Home?
In addition to enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of your garage, epoxy and polyaspartic garage floors can also add value to your home. A well-maintained garage with a professionally installed polymer floor coating can significantly boost the overall curb appeal and marketability of your property. Whether you’re looking to sell your home in the future or simply want to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and durable garage floor, investing in epoxy or polyaspartic coatings is a smart choice.