Michigan is known for its cold winters and humid summers, both of which create unique challenges when preparing a garage floor for an epoxy and polyaspartic floor coating. However, with proper preparation, you can ensure your garage floor will stand up to the region’s extreme weather conditions, from freeze-thaw cycles in winter to high humidity in the summer. In this regard, before the installers even show up, there are a few things you can do to assist in installing an epoxy floor.
Step 1: Clearing the Garage of All Floor Items
The first step in preparation is to remove all items from the garage. To ensure that the installation process goes smoothly, it is essential to clear the garage completely. Items should be stored in a dry, weather-protected location, such as a basement or rented storage unit, to prevent them from being damaged by moisture or the elements.
Clearing out all items allows the professionals to access the entire floor surface, ensuring a uniform and complete application of the garage floor coating. Note that wall-mounted items, more than 3 feet above the floor, are safe to stay.
Any electronics that cannot be removed from the garage should be covered securely (to avoid damage from dust). In addition, be sure to turn off any HVAC systems in the garage to prevent dust and odors from circulating throughout your home during installation.
Step 2: Re-Schedule Yard Work
Any activities that generate airborne dust and debris can be a problem. This includes mowing the lawn, watering, or working with tools on outdoor projects, should be avoided. Dust or yard debris could affect the quality of the application of the epoxy flooring. Furthermore, dust in the air can prevent the coating from properly adhering to the concrete surface, leading to imperfections or potential peeling.
Step 3: No Need for Surface Grinding. Cleaning or Repairs
Homeowners are not required to clean, sand or repair the garage floor themselves. The professional installation team will handle all necessary concrete preparation, including grinding the surface down to remove old concrete paint or coatings. This process creates the ideal surface for the new coating to adhere to.
Cracks in the floor are common in Michigan due to freeze-thaw cycles, where water seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, causing further damage. The professional team will repair any cracks and fill joints with their concrete patch systems. This meticulous concrete preparation ensures the perfect concrete “canvas” before the first application of the epoxy primer coat (and subsequent polyaspartic clear top coats).
Conclusion: Why Epoxy Flooring Works for Michigan
A durable epoxy floor coating provides long-term protection against the region’s harsh weather conditions. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and road salt can all contribute to wear and damage on untreated concrete. A well-prepared and properly coated floor will help turn your garage floor into something that can effectively resist these elements.