Applying the epoxy to garage floor

A DIY guide on How to apply an epoxy garage flooring

This post is a part of A DIY guide on How to apply an epoxy garage flooring

One thing we want to make you aware of, is when it comes to application of the epoxy, 100% solids epoxy is not used in the videos that you can watch online. Many are using a solvent based or thinner water based epoxy that can be rolled out from a paint tray like you are painting a wall.

If using 100% solids epoxy, it is much thicker and should be poured onto the floor, then use back rolling as the final process.
After thorough preparation of the floor, double check your list of materials, essential tools, weather, make sure you have a proper work station for mixing and go over your plan of application.

If the floor of your garage does not end at a slab joint and actually goes beyond it, then you should tape off the floor where the door seal meets the floor. Remove the tape 30 min after epoxy has set. If kept longer, the epoxy will be too hard to remove the tape and there will be a torn tape residue visible in your neat line.

Re-tape for each additional coat you apply. If you plan on installing a garage floor door seal after the epoxy, the tape residue is not an issue because it can be installed over the tape line.

HUMIDITY AND TEMPERATURE FOR EPOXY

Epoxy is weather sensitive. Weather can effect curing times, viscosity and adhesion of the epoxy. So you should check your weather forecast before applying epoxy to your garage floor because temperature and humidity play a crucial role.
Temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees are considered ideal, but most of the epoxy paint coatings can be applied in temperatures from 55 to 90 degrees. The pot life of epoxy shortens when the temperatures are higher and lengthens when cooler. This is because epoxy cures exothermically.

If you expect warm weather, store your epoxy in a cool area for 24 hours before mixing. This will increase the working time. On the contrary, if you are expecting lower temperatures, store your epoxy in a warm area in order to keep the epoxy more viscous during application.

Like temperature, dew point and humidity are also influencing factors. It is advised not to apply epoxy if the humidity forecast is over 85% or the temperature of the concrete is 5 degree less above the dew point. This may affect the bonding of the epoxy to the surface, because a very thin layer of moisture can from in these conditions. It may cause blushing of the epoxy while it cures. Always consult your manufacturer about these general guidelines.
Delay your installation if any of the above conditions are present.

In case the conditions change during the installation, run a fan in the garage, the air from the fan will not allow any moisture to condense on the surface.