Garage Flooring Options can seem overpowering. How much will it cost? Can I do it? Which choice will work best for my application? To start this journey, lets see what your choices actually are?
Many moons ago, few were fortunate enough to actually have a garage. The ability to have your cars inside the footprint of your residence deemed you as successful. As time went on, the garage becoming a dumping ground (and still is to some.) Things that weren't meant for the living areas of the home were stored deep in the confines of the garage.
In this day and age, the garage space serves multiple purposes ranging from work areas, storage and necessary parking spaces. But for the certified car nut, the garage is truly the center of the residence!
Dissecting the areas within the garage space, pics and posters adorn the walls. Many people add additional lights, cabinets and electrical outlets - all functional add-ons. But for those wanting to make this area a topic of discussion, many look to the biggest space this room has to offer - the floor!
Everyone who has a garage has one. A floor. Most often it is one of the more neglected parts of the room, but offers the biggest "WOW" factor when it has been upgraded in some way. For those that decide to do the task themselves - it can seem monumental. This article will explain some of the choices you'll have when considering garage flooring. No matter which you choose, you'll have a garage that will be the envy of your neighborhood!
Paint
Painting is one of the simplest ways to beautify the floor. Before choosing the paint, keep in mind that your garage floor is always under assault from things like chemicals, vehicle weight and heat. Pedestrian traffic, abrasions, and moisture also add to attack. The paint you choose must be for this specific job. Standard concrete paint will peel and break down under consistent use. The paint must be resistant to scratching, bond flawlessly to the concrete, as well as making the surface look fantastic. Makers of this specific paint are everywhere. Decide carefully in making the choice, as prepping and painting is a labor intensive operation. Do it once, and do it right.
Carpet and Mats
Choosing carpet or mats as flooring is a less labors option. The only work involved here is sizing the carpet for the floor. In choosing, keep in mind that you'll need materials that offer resistance to moisture and chemicals. Many garage mats and carpet can be groomed by sweeping, washing or vacuuming. The great thing about using carpet is that it is easier to beautify an older garage floor that may have been cracked or stained over years of use. The other choices will require a level, crack and stain-free concrete flooring surface.
Tile - Plastic Modular or Ceramic
Plastic modular flooring is easier to walk on, resists gas and oil, and is very inexpensive. The notched, plastic units snap together like a puzzle and can be replaced individually if they become damaged. Plastic tiling is available in a wide assortment of colors and can be purchased through many different retailers. No gluing or prepping is necessary. Simply snap together using a rubber mallet.
Ceramic tile is the pinnacle of garage floor protection. Laying the tile is a job best left to a pro, but if you are looking for the ultimate - this is it! Use a commercial grade thickness tile when using this option. Tile that is made for use within the living areas of a home will not stand up to vehicle weights and abrasion. Ceramic tile requires almost no maintenance and is highly resistant to chemicals. Additional items like grout, thinset, spacers and tools will be necessary for the do-it-yourselfer. If you have no cap on the price, this choice will make your garage stand head and shoulders above the rest!
J. Boiselle - Author and Motivational Blogger.
Garage flooring is an easy and stunning upgrade when you know all about what is available !
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