Statistics from 2021 show that 67% of single-family homes have a two-car garage. This is because garages are very desirable for most people looking to buy a home.
Garages are useful for a variety of things, from storing your vehicles to becoming a workshop to extending your living space. Because of this, garage floors are also very important.
There are many different garage floor types with different benefits. This guide will break these options down so that you can make an educated decision.
Keep reading to find out what garage floors you need to look into when renovating.
Polyurea Coating
One of the best garage floors you can get is polyurea coating, which usually includes a polyaspartic polyurea coating layer that adds long-lasting protection.
It is known for being long-lasting and highly durable. It is not a physical floor that you have constructed in your garage, it is a system of protective coatings applied to your existing floor (usually concrete).
This is a very common method used for garage floors. This allows you to use the floor you already have but quickly improves the strength and appeal of your garage.
Polyurea coatings are also scratch resistant and will not yellow over time. They are UV ray resistant, so the appearance is not going to be changed.
One of the main benefits of this option is the easy application. You do not have to install a new garage floor, just apply the coating to your existing surface.
In as little as 24 hours, the garage floor will be completed and ready to use. It is hassle-free and a much more affordable option than other garage floors.
Another thing to consider is the appearance of this floor option. Garage Force provides a variety of coating systems suitable for all looks.
You have options like a full chip system or a Medici system for a unique look. Quartz systems and solid color systems are also available, although usually reserved for industrial applications.
These are options that allow you to make your garage floor a statement feature.
Painted Concrete
Floor material options for a garage will make or break how it can be used. That is why it is important that you carefully consider this decision and do your research.
One popular option is painted concrete floors. This is when you can tackle the concrete floors your garage already has.
All you need is the right kind of paint and a few hours. Heavy-duty paint provides a shield over the concrete to protect it from things like oil and grime.
Concrete has a porous nature, so this is very important as it creates a barrier. Painting the concrete floor also gives it a better appearance.
You can hide all those unsightly scratches and stains for a very affordable amount of money. If you want to update your garage, this is one of the easiest and more affordable options.
You can paint a solid color or a pattern depending on what you want. Some people are even able to achieve a would look with a specific paint design.
One thing to remember about this option is that it is not a standard floor coating. It is not like a polyurea coating that is highly durable and protective.
The paint will not last as long, and it could start to scratch and chip. That is why it is ideal for garages where you won’t be parking vehicles or other types of machinery.
Interlocking Floor Tiles
If you don’t want to hire a garage floor contractor, there are other options. One of these options is to use interlocking floor tiles.
These tiles are usually made of plastic, making them similar to PVC flooring products. These are large tiles that look like giant puzzle pieces that connect by snapping together
They have a grid design that makes them self-draining. These grids also determine how much weight the floor tiles can bear.
They may not seem durable at first glance, but they are very long-lasting. As long as you take good care of them, they should last for several years.
It is also very easy to install these floor tiles within just a few hours. All you need to do is measure how many you need and snap them into place.
They are even able to withstand the wear and tear of vehicles driving over them. Because of this, you can use these floor tiles no matter how your garage is put to use.
Rubber Floor
When it comes to garage floors, the option you choose depends on the purpose of your garage. One popular option is rubber floors, perfect for gyms or play areas.
A rubber floor is very comfortable and provides a great deal of traction. It does not stain and is not going to be vulnerable to mold or mildew.
It is very forgiving and can handle a great deal of weight on top of it. Most types of rubber garage floors can be used when it comes to parking your vehicles.
You just have to make sure you pick the right rubber that can withstand this. Keep in mind that rubber floors may not be ideal for highly used garages.
This is the perfect option if you have transformed your garage into a workout area or man cave. But if you plan on working out there on vehicles, it may not be the best option.
Polished Concrete
If your garage floor is concrete, you may be able to give it an update. One great option is to have a polished concrete floor in your garage.
This is where the surface of the concrete has been polished with heavy machinery. This creates a shiny and smooth surface that has a polished finish.
Polished concrete is not a DIY project anyone should take on. It would be very difficult to complete yourself, especially since you have to use specialized equipment.
Although, this is still a good option if you don’t mind investing a little money. The concrete will be more durable and has a more refined look.
It has all of the strength and durability of regular concrete floors. It will be easier to clean and maintain, and it won’t be as porous.
Keep in mind that polished concrete floors can be susceptible to scratches. For instance, if it is winter and you are driving on salt, this salt could damage the polished finish.
Laminate
You may want to update your garage floors, but you are on a strict budget. The good news is that this is entirely possible with laminate flooring.
Laminate flooring is artificial flooring made of different layers pressed together. You can find laminate in a variety of styles and looks, including wood.
The laminate flooring connects easily together, so it is easy to install. It is also a more affordable option than many other garage floor options.
You will need to make sure the laminate you choose can withstand heavy weight. If you don’t do this, the weight of your vehicle could create significant wear and tear.
You also need to make sure you only choose a waterproof laminate.
Things to Consider About a Garage Floor
Now that you know what your options are, there are other things to consider. You need to figure out exactly what you want in a garage floor.
This should be a list of requirements the floor has to meet to be a good option. This will help you to make the best decision and stick to your budget.
Durability
One of the main things you need to consider is how durable the floor is. This is extremely important because garages are used quite a lot.
You may use your garage to store your vehicles or boat as well as equipment. You may also do woodworking or other projects in the garage.
The floor is going to receive a lot of foot traffic and wear and tear. To get the most out of your investment, the floor needs to be able to withstand all of this.
That is also why it is important to consider how you will be using your garage. If your garage is a playroom for your children or a man cave, it doesn’t need to be as durable.
Lifespan
Different garage floors also last for different lengths of time. For instance, a painted concrete floor is not going to last as long as a polyurea coated floor.
A rubber floor may also last less time than a polished concrete floor. This is why you need to consider the lifespan and the investment you are putting into it.
The last thing you want to do is invest a lot of money into a short-term floor.
Maintenance
Like any kind of floor, garage floors require a certain level of maintenance. How much maintenance that is depends on the type of floor you choose.
A polished concrete or laminate floor is very easy to keep clean. All you need to do is sweep and mop occasionally to keep it in good condition.
If you don’t have much time to dedicate to your garage floor, this is very important. For most people, they want to choose the option that is the most convenient.
Appearance
You may or may not care about how your garage floor looks. This is completely personal, and you may just be worried about the functionality.
But if you want your garage floor to look nice, there are specific options that stand out. For example, a polyurea-coated floor comes in a wide variety of options.
The same goes for a painted concrete floor where you can create a variety of patterns and colors. When it comes to polished concrete or rubber floor, you don’t have many options.
Pricing
Another very important factor when updating your garage floors is how much it costs. You are most likely on a budget, limiting the options you have available.
You need to decide on your budget long before you look into your options. This will help you to save time and avoid being tempted by costly floors.
Some of the more affordable options are floor coatings that are affordable and convenient. A garage floor contractor can apply this coating so fast that it’s ready to use in 24 hours.
Other affordable options include interlocking floor tiles or a painted concrete floor. Make sure you don’t base your decision only on the price.
You still want to make sure you are getting a good deal when it comes to your investment.
When to Update a Garage Floor
If you often use your garage, there may come a day when it needs an update. One example of this is if the garage floor is outdated.
It may not look nice anymore, and it may be bringing down the value of your entire home. Or it may not serve the purpose that you need it to for the space.
For instance, you may need something more durable or stain resistant. Damage is also a good reason to update your garage floor or replace it.
Garage Floors: Which Is the Best Option
If you have a garage, you may want to give your garage floors an update. There are many different types of garage floors you can choose to elevate the space.
This includes options like laminate flooring, interlocking floor tiles, and a polyurea coating. These are durable options that are also ideal for a budget.
Do you want to add a protective coating to your garage floor? Contact us today at Garage Force to book an appointment.
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