Garage Flooring: Simple Tips for Dealing with Damaged Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy coatings are ideal for use on garage floors because of their durability. The coating is not vulnerable to mechanical damage due to the pressure exerted by vehicles. Also, the protective layer will prevent surface staining due to oil spills and other similar fluids. In addition, epoxy flooring will prevent the deterioration of concrete garage floors due to moisture exposure. However, an epoxy coat is not infallible. It can become damaged if it experiences unfavourable conditions or undue stress. If your epoxy floor has started showing signs of degradation, you should consider the below guidelines for garage restoration.
Recoat Faded and Discoloured Floors
The vibrant epoxy colours can fade or discolour over time due to adverse conditions such as UV exposure, poor maintenance practices and unfavourable indoor climate. Fortunately, this problem can be resolved with ease and at a low cost. In simple terms, you can restore the floor by applying a fresh coat of epoxy paint over the old, faded layer using a roller. This process will give your garage an attractive look without high costs. When choosing your epoxy coating, you should opt for a colour similar to the old one or darker hues for complete concealment.
Remove the Old Coating with a Sander
If your garage floor is extensively damaged, you will need to strip the floors completely before applying a fresh coat of epoxy paint. This process is also beneficial if you are interested in changing the colour of your floor to a lighter shade. The most efficient method for stripping the old coating involves using an electric sander. This equipment will remove the old material, creating a blank template for the application of epoxy. You can rent the sander from a local dealer, but it is advisable to hire an experienced painter to handle the work. After all, the sander can be a dangerous machine if handled incorrectly. Once the paint is stripped, you can begin your repainting project.
Use a Heat Gun for Coating Removal
If you cannot use an electric sander for the stripping of paint due to poor skill or financial limitations, you should consider using a heat gun and scraper. This method is slower and less efficient than sanding. However, it is suitable for small spaces and DIY enthusiasts. Also, it allows the removal of localised sections of damaged epoxy. Ideally, you will need to cut around the damaged area with a razor blade, heat the epoxy and then remove with a paint scraper. After removal, you can paint the stripped area.