Did you know that you can embed cool objects into epoxy floor coatings? Imagine your garage floor embedded with old license plates or old gas station signs. Or maybe you don’t embed anything, maybe you have a cool design of your favorite car emblem or logo on the floor. Of course, you are already asking, how much is that going to cost me? Epoxy flooring costs vary because of some factors that go into covering the floor of your car garage. Let’s look at what you need to know about the costs of epoxy.
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What is Epoxy Flooring?
Epoxy is made of hardeners and resins, can be clear or opaque, and come in a wide variety of colors and designs. They are perfect for concrete floors that often reside in the garage. It acts as a sealant to protect from moisture and adds years to the life of your concrete floor. As we all know, garages get messy and epoxy is perfect for that. It protects the garage floor from stains and can withstand high impact. It also is wonderful for high-traffic areas, so if you are in the garage working on your car a lot…it’s the perfect fit for you.
What Are the Different Types of Epoxy?
There are different types of epoxy and it helps to learn about them to understand how they function. The three types are:
- Epoxy floor coatings
- Epoxy chip floors
- Epoxy slurry floors
Let’s explore each one to see how they differ.
Epoxy Floor Coatings
A basic understanding of the epoxy floor coatings is that it is an epoxy poured on top of concrete floors in the garage. This is the most popular garage floor coating because it adds durability but it isn’t necessarily for high-traffic areas. It really depends on if you choose 100% epoxy, solvent-based, or water-based for the garage floor coating. If this is for your home’s two-car garage, it’s a fairly decent choice. If you are using it for business, this is not the best option for you.
Epoxy Chip Floors
Epoxy chip floors are designed in a three-layer system. First, an epoxy floor coating is applied. As it cures, vinyl chips are applied to add extra strength and durability. Then a top coat of UV-stable polyaspartic sealer is then applied to the surface. These are often used in industrial settings but more homeowners are starting to use them for their 2-car garage. It is a longer-lasting garage floor than regular epoxy flooring.
Epoxy Slurry Floors
Epoxy slurry floors are an epoxy coating that is for resurfacing damaged concrete floors. Some professionals will use slurry first before starting a traditional epoxy floor to ensure that the concrete is at its best. This can add to the garage floor cost but can be a life-saver for some. This is also something that can be done first and wait a while before applying an epoxy coating.
What Are the Advantages of Epoxy?
When it comes to epoxy floor coating, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Once we show you all the ways that you will benefit from an epoxy garage floor, the cost may not matter as much.
Durability
We can not say it enough, an epoxy garage floor is a very durable and strong floor. It can withstand plenty of foot traffic and can take on impact, depending on the type of epoxy you choose. It doesn’t matter if you are redoing the home or work garage floor, epoxy flooring is your best bet.
Low shrinkage
One of the best things about the epoxy coating on garage floors is the low shrinkage. Some floor coatings shrink as they cure, but epoxy does not. This is probably due to the low number of chemicals in the flooring. It’s just hardeners and resins. Shrinkage with other floor coatings is often due to errors in the installation. Epoxy floor coating then becomes a money-saving option.
Strong adhesion
Of all floor coatings, epoxy on your garage floors is the strongest adhesion of them all. It really has to be since it functions as a moisture sealant. You won’t have to worry about lifting along the edges, which often occurs with shrinkage in other materials that can cause costly repairs.
Inexpensive
Epoxy is considered a low garage floor cost because of the various prices and low maintenance requirements. You can expect to pay up to $12 per square foot and maintenance isn’t very often if you care for it well. Choosing the right type of epoxy will also lower the garage floor cost.
Low toxicity
While epoxy was once known for being fairly toxic, new methods of making the epoxy have changed that drastically. It is considered an eco-friendly option for garage floors. However, this is based on the application. Curing emits some fumes that can be detrimental if you breathe them in. Working with a professional will ensure that you are not breathing the fumes in and won’t have to worry about it.
What Are the Disadvantages of Epoxy?
Noisy
Walking on the epoxy is noisier than many expect. It is highly recommended to add polyurethane if you are using epoxy flooring in the home. For garages, it isn’t necessary as the noise blends in.
Cold
Epoxy on concrete is cold and that can make the garage feel even colder. If you can afford to add underfloor heating, we would highly recommend it. But, it isn’t necessary if you are working in a commercial garage necessarily. If you don’t want a cold garage floor, then you should definitely discuss this to find out more about the overall garage floor cost.
Uneven Surfaces Beneath It Are Noticeable
Unfortunately, epoxy flooring does not remedy problems that already exist with your garage floor. If it is uneven or has staining, it can be more noticeable after the epoxy is applied.
Garage Floor Resurfacing and Refinishing Costs
The cost for an average garage is around $1500 or more. It is going to depend on the type of epoxy chosen, any colors or designs, regional area, and the size of the garage. It will be easy to find a small garage that costs more because of the design on the floor than a larger one. Most homeowners will find themselves spending around $1300 – $1500 for their two-car garage. Business owners can expect to pay up to $3000.
Epoxy Flooring Cost Per Square Foot
Epoxy flooring cost by square feet is often an easier pill to swallow. Many folks will pay $7 per square foot for a home garage and a business will pay $12 per square foot. This is including labor and materials needed.
Is the Epoxy Garage Floor Cost Worth It?
We believe everyone should epoxy their garage floor. The cost is definitely worth it when you consider all the benefits that it provides. With it so easy to clean, durability, and long life, it’s an investment into your garage.
FAQs
Is epoxy expensive?
Cost can range anywhere from $3-$12 per square foot. That translates into $1300-$3000 on average.
Which is cheaper? Epoxy flooring vs. tiles
Epoxy flooring will cost $3-$12 per square foot that includes labor and materials. Garage tiles are $2-$4 but installation is less than $1 per square foot. This makes the upfront cost of tiles more affordable than epoxy. However, garage tiles don’t offer the same durability and lifespan, thus they will need to be replaced much sooner. Which translates into more money.
Why Choose Paradigm Concrete Finishes For Your Epoxy Floor?
We are a company based on honesty and integrity. We provide over two decades of experience and have the clientele to prove we offer the best professional installation. Call us today so we can discuss your epoxy options and how we can beautify your garage floor.
