How To Clean Epoxy Garage Floors In Four Easy Steps

by | Mar 21, 2023 | epoxy

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Epoxy garage floors have become increasingly popular due to their durability, easy maintenance, and attractive appearance. However, like any other surface, epoxy garage floors require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Cleaning epoxy garage floors may seem daunting, but it can be a quick and easy process with the right tools and techniques. 

In this guide, we will discuss the step-by-step process for cleaning epoxy garage floors, including the materials you need and the best cleaning methods. Whether you want to give your garage floor a deep clean or simply maintain its appearance, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to keep your epoxy garage floor looking new for years to come.

Equipment needed to clean epoxy floors

Cleaning epoxy floors requires a few essential tools and supplies. Here’s a list of equipment you may need:

  1. Broom and dustpan
  2. Vacuum cleaner
  3. Mop and bucket
  4. Squeegee
  5. Microfiber mop
  6. Soft-bristled brush.
  7. Floor buffer
  8. Safety equipment: When working with cleaning chemicals or using a floor buffer, it’s crucial to wear protective equipment such as gloves, eye protection, and a respirator if necessary.

Note that you can do without some of these tools. However, consider essential items like a floor buffer, a microfiber mop, and a vacuum cleaner for optimal results.

Best Cleaning Steps For Your Epoxy Garage Floor

Below are the steps to take when cleaning your epoxy floors. 

1. Pre-Cleaning

The pre-cleaning process involves ensuring that the space is cleared out to prepare for a thorough cleaning job. If you are doing a deep cleaning project, remove every piece of furniture, vehicle, or box from the garage. This is essential because if you plan to move these items from one position to the other as you clean, you may damage the floor.

Purpose: To prepare the floor for a thorough cleaning by clearing away larger debris.

Tools Needed: Broom or leaf blower.

Steps:

  • Begin by using a broom to sweep the floor to remove larger particles like leaves, stones, and other debris that might scratch the surface during the cleaning process.
  • Alternatively, a leaf blower can be used for quicker removal of debris, especially effective in larger garage spaces.

2. Dust Mop

Use a mop and bucket to clean the floor with a mild detergent or a specialized epoxy cleaner. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the epoxy surface. A microfiber mop is ideal for the final pass on the floor to ensure it’s completely dry and free of any debris or streaks.

Purpose: To remove finer dust particles from the surface.

Tools Needed: Microfiber dust mop.

Steps:

  • Gently glide a microfiber dust mop across the surface of the epoxy floor. Microfiber is particularly effective at capturing fine dust and reducing airborne particles.
  • Ensure that you cover every part of the floor with smooth, sweeping motions to gather all the dust.

3. Vacuuming

You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt from the floor. Ensure the vacuum cleaner has a hard floor setting to avoid scratching the epoxy surface. A floor buffer can be used for deep cleaning and buffing the epoxy floor to restore its shine. Make sure to use a soft pad and avoid using excessive pressure.

Purpose: To ensure that even finer particles are removed, especially from hard-to-reach areas.

Tools Needed: Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.

Steps:

  • After dust mopping, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to pick up any remaining dust. This prevents any potential scratches that hard attachments might cause.
  • Pay special attention to corners and edges of the garage, where dust tends to accumulate the most.

4. Chemical Cleaning

Chemical cleaning is only advised if you know the right chemicals to use when cleaning epoxy floors. Using harsh chemicals can permanently ruin the appearance of your floor and can be avoided by simply asking a professional or letting them do it for you.

Purpose: To deep clean and remove stains using chemicals safe for epoxy surfaces.

Tools Needed: pH-neutral floor cleaner, mop (or soft-bristle brush), bucket, clean water.

Steps:

  • Dilute a pH-neutral cleaner in water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This type of cleaner is safe for epoxy and effective in removing grease and other residues without damaging the floor.
  • Mop the floor with the diluted cleaning solution, or use a soft-bristle brush for scrubbing tougher stains.
  • After scrubbing, rinse the floor with clean water to remove any cleaner residue, which can attract more dirt if left behind.

How to maintain your epoxy floors for optimal results

Epoxy floor for garage

Epoxy garage floors are becoming increasingly popular in homes and commercial spaces due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, like any other floor type, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips on how to maintain your epoxy floors:

1. Regular sweeping and vacuuming

One of the best ways to maintain your epoxy floors is to sweep or vacuum them regularly. This will prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the surface and scratching the epoxy coating. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the epoxy.

2. Regular mopping

Mopping your epoxy floors is also essential, especially if they are in a high-traffic area. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and warm water to clean the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the epoxy. Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely.

3. Spot cleaning

If you spill something on your epoxy floors, it’s important to clean it up immediately. Use a soft cloth or mop to wipe up the spill, and then rinse the area with warm water. Avoid using soap or detergent, as they can leave a residue on the surface.

4. Use protective mats

Use protective mats in high-traffic areas or under heavy furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs on your epoxy floors. Mats can also help to absorb moisture and prevent stains.

5. Avoid high heels and heavy objects

High heels and heavy objects can damage your epoxy floors, so it’s best to avoid wearing heels on the surface and use furniture pads under heavy items.

6. Reseal the surface

Over time, the epoxy coating on your floors may begin to wear away. To keep your floors looking their best, consider resealing the floor to return its shine and sophistication.

Conclusion

Hiring a professional to clean and maintain your epoxy garage floor is the best way to ensure that it remains in excellent condition for years to come. While it may seem like a straightforward process, cleaning an epoxy garage floor requires the use of specific tools and cleaning agents to avoid damaging the epoxy coating. By entrusting the job to an experienced and reputable epoxy repair and maintenance company like Paradigm Concrete Finishes, you can have peace of mind knowing that your garage floor is in good hands. Our professionals use advanced cleaning techniques and equipment to remove dirt, dust, and stains without compromising the quality of the epoxy coating.

Don’t risk damaging your epoxy garage floor by attempting to clean it yourself. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team of experts, and we will ensure that your garage floor is properly cleaned and maintained for long-lasting durability and visual appeal.

FAQs

Is it OK to pressure wash an epoxy garage floor?

Generally, it is safe to pressure-wash an epoxy garage floor. However, there are some crucial factors to consider before doing so.

When pressure-washing an epoxy garage floor, it is essential to use the correct technique and equipment. Pressure washing too forcefully or using the wrong type of nozzle or pressure setting can damage the epoxy coating, leading to peeling or flaking.

It is also important to note that pressure washing alone may not thoroughly remove stubborn stains or debris from an epoxy garage floor. Sometimes, it may be necessary to use specialized cleaning solutions or techniques to achieve a thorough cleaning.

What is the best mop for cleaning epoxy garage floors?

Here are some options:

  1. Microfiber mop: Microfiber is gentle on the surface and effectively picks up dirt and debris. Look for a mop with a removable and washable microfiber pad.
  2. Sponge mop: Choose a mop with a non-abrasive sponge head that won’t scratch or damage the surface.
  3. A string mop with a cotton or microfiber head can work well on epoxy garage floors. Just make sure the mop head isn’t too rough or abrasive.
  4. A steam mop is a good choice if you want to clean and sanitize your epoxy garage floor simultaneously. Ensure the steam mop is safe for sealed surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that scratch or dull the surface.

Does water damage the epoxy floor?

Epoxy floors are known for their durability and resistance to various chemicals, including water. However, prolonged exposure to water can cause damage to epoxy floors over time. Water can seep into small cracks or imperfections in the epoxy’s surface and cause damage over time. If left unchecked, water damage can cause the epoxy to delaminate or peel away from the surface, which can be costly to repair.