Flake epoxy floors are known for their durability, aesthetics, and versatility, making them a popular choice for residential garages. However, like any flooring system, flake epoxy isn’t without its challenges, and it can be frustrating when your expectations aren’t met.
At CustomCrete, we understand how important it is for your garage floor to look great and stand the test of time. With over 20 years of experience providing high-quality flooring solutions, we’ve seen firsthand the common problems that can arise with flake epoxy floors, and more importantly, we know how to prevent them. All of these problems are easily avoided with proper installation and experience. There are lots of contractors who will roll up and do your floor in a day and then vanish by the time you see issues.
Before you jump in, it’s important to understand these potential issues so you can avoid them. By knowing what to look out for, you can make informed decisions and ensure your floor lasts for years to come.
Problem 1: Peeling or Delamination
Why It Happens
Peeling or delamination often occurs due to poor surface preparation or the presence of moisture in the concrete substrate. In residential garages, if the floor is not cleaned, ground, or prepped properly before installation, the epoxy coating won’t bond correctly. Additionally, moisture rising from the ground through the concrete can weaken the bond and lead to delamination over time.
How to Avoid It
Ensure your concrete is properly prepped before the epoxy is applied. This means thoroughly cleaning the surface and, in many cases, grinding it to create a profile the epoxy can bond to.
Your installer should explain this process to you before they show up on the day. Also, testing for moisture levels in your concrete is essential before applying any coating. If moisture is detected, installing a moisture vapor barrier before applying the epoxy is key. A moisture vapor barrier acts as a protective layer that prevents moisture from reaching the epoxy coating, ensuring your garage floor remains intact and peel-free.
Problem 2: Discoloration Over Time
Why It Happens
The primary cause of epoxy discoloration is exposure to UV light. Residential garages will have a large garage door and sometimes windows, through which can cause the epoxy to yellow, particularly if the topcoat isn’t UV-resistant.
How to Avoid It
When planning your flake epoxy floor, choose a product that includes UV inhibitors in the topcoat. These additives protect the epoxy from sunlight and significantly reduce the chances of fading or yellowing. If your garage gets a lot of sunlight, UV protection is a must to keep your floor looking great over time.
Problem 3: Slipperiness When Wet
Why It Happens
Epoxy surfaces can become slick when exposed to oils or other chemicals, which is a common occurrence in residential garages. Whether it's oil from your car or an accidental spill, a smooth epoxy floor can quickly become slippery.
How to Avoid It
To prevent this, add textures in the broadcast layer of your epoxy floor. These textures, made from fine particles or grit, are mixed into the broadcast layer during application and provide additional traction. This creates a safer surface that looks great but also provides the necessary grip when wet, reducing the risk of slips in your garage.
Problem 4: Chipping Due to Impact
Why It Happens
Flake epoxy floors are tough, but even tough floors can experience damage over time, especially in a residential garage where heavy tools, bikes, or other equipment may be dropped. Chipping is one of the most common types of damage.
How to Avoid It
To prevent chipping, consider using an industrial-grade epoxy designed to withstand heavier use. These types of epoxy are typically thicker and more durable, making them more resistant to damage from impacts. Allowing the epoxy to fully cure before putting it to use is also critical. Garage floors that haven’t cured properly are much more vulnerable to chipping.
Problem 5: Inconsistent Flake Distribution
Why It Happens
One of the defining features of flake epoxy flooring is the decorative flakes that give the floor its unique look. If applied unevenly, these flakes can look patchy and unprofessional. This is especially noticeable in residential garages, where even coverage is important for aesthetics.
How to Avoid It
The best way to ensure an even distribution of flakes is to hire a professional installer who has experience working with epoxy systems. A skilled installer will know how to broadcast the flakes evenly across the surface, achieving a smooth and consistent look. DIY installations can be tempting, but flake application is a step that can make or break the appearance of your garage floor.
Is Flake Epoxy Right For You?
Flake epoxy flooring offers many benefits, from its attractive appearance to its durability. However, as with any flooring system, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues before committing. Peeling, discoloration, slipperiness, and chipping are common issues. They can be avoided with proper prep, high-quality materials, and professional installation.
The number one thing to watch out for is making sure you have an installer you can trust. By understanding these challenges and taking the necessary steps to avoid them, you can enjoy a long-lasting, beautiful flake epoxy floor in your residential garage.
Thinking about upgrading your garage floor with flake epoxy? Be sure to check out our detailed guide on the pricing of epoxy flake floors in residential garages. It breaks down the costs so you can plan your budget confidently.
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