Garage floors are often subject to heavy use and abuse over time. If your floors aren’t protected properly, your concrete floor that was supposed to last forever could begin to deteriorate, making it less attractive and effective. Common defects include cracks, discolorations, warping from moisture, weed growth, and more. Moisture, oil drips, chemical spills and road salt are some of the most common culprits, but unprotected garage floors are susceptible to all sorts of damage. There are many ways you can rejuvenate your concrete garage floors, so how do you determine which option is best for you?
There are two main categories of garage flooring: coatings and coverings. If your garage floor is in good condition, either option will work. However, if your floor is cracked, dented, or damaged, a covering is a better choice because it hides damage. Why? Even low-shine garage floor coatings can highlight blemishes rather than concealing them. Both options can help you protect against stains, moisture, and deterioration while making your floors more attractive and easier to clean. Here are a few different options you should consider:
Garage Floor Coverings
Garage floor coverings are easy to apply and are often removable if you decide to change your mind down the road. They offer a thick layer of protection along with flexibility in material, pattern, colour, and more. Most coverings are laid on top of your current concrete garage floors, hiding any imperfections and protecting them from any further damage.
Interlocking tiles
Interlocking tiles are one of the most common types of garage floor coverings and come in a variety of materials including vinyl, rubber, plastic, or even foam. They are extremely straightforward to apply and can be easily removed if you decide to go with another option. The only downside to interlocking tiles is that they are a temporary solution to a permanent problem.
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring may not be the most versatile garage floor covering option, but it is by far the easiest to apply. It is simply rolled out over your existing concrete garage floor, hiding any existing damage. However, since vinyl flooring is usually done in a single sheet, it’s difficult to repair if there are any imperfections, and, like interlocking tiles, it only acts as a temporary solution.
Garage Floor Coatings
Garage floor coatings are a more permanent option and offer significantly more protection than garage floor coverings. They offer moisture protection, increased durability, and are available in a variety of colors and designs. There are all sorts of garage floor coatings on the market, but concrete stain and epoxy coatings are two of the most prominent. Here’s why:
Concrete stain
Concrete stain is one of the cheapest garage floor coatings, and can be easily applied in a thin coat to protect your garage floors from a variety of threats. Unlike paint, concrete stain is often clear, allowing your old concrete floor to show through while wicking away moisture, debris, and spills. However, if your old concrete floor is damaged or spotty, this isn’t a very appealing option.
Epoxy coatings on garage floors
An epoxy coating on garage floors is one of the most attractive and effective ways to preserve the life of your garage floor. They are more affordable than most other options, and offer unparalleled protection and customization. Whether you use your garage for projects and repairs or a place to hang out, epoxy coatings can revitalize an old, damaged concrete garage floor.
