In Montana, we value simplicity and practicality. When it comes to prepping your garage for a garage floor coating, the process is just that—simple. No frills, no stress, just clear steps to get your garage ready for its new look. Here’s what you can do to best set your residential epoxy floor installers up for success:
Turn Off HVAC and Protect Electronics
If your garage has an HVAC system, it needs to be turned off during the installation. This keeps dust and debris (and odors) from sneaking into your house. And don’t forget about your electronics! Make sure any electronics that can’t be removed from the garage are wrapped up to avoid damage from dust.
Hold Off on Yard and Home Maintenance
You might be used to keeping busy with outdoor projects. However, while your garage floor is being coated, it’s a good idea to avoid yard work and any other maintenance near the garage. For example, mowing the lawn, using power tools, or even doing small home repairs can stir up dust and debris, which could interfere with the coating process. Give your new floor a clean start by pausing those projects until the job is done, so the coating can cure properly and look its best.
Empty the Garage (Yes, Everything)
Clearing out your garage is the first and most important step. Everything has to go, from the snow tires to the fishing gear. Here’s how to make it easy:
- Move items into your home: Smaller stuff like tools, boxes, and seasonal gear can be stored in your basement or an extra room.
- Temporary storage: For bigger items, renting a storage unit or pod can be a lifesaver. It’s short-term and keeps your stuff safe. Or, if a neighbor has extra space, ask if they’d mind storing some of your things temporarily.
- Outdoor storage: If you’ve got a refrigerator or freezer in the garage, it can be moved outside for the time being. Just throw a tarp over it and lock it up—Montana wildlife can be curious, and you don’t want any surprise guests!
But there’s no need to remove wall-mounted items within 36 inches of the floor.
Relax, No Floor Prep Needed
Montana folks are no strangers to hard work, but this time, you get a break. The coating professionals will take care of all the floor prep:
- Grinding down the concrete: This removes any old coatings, concrete floor paint, or surface stains. It’s like giving your garage floor a clean slate.
- Repairing cracks: Those cracks caused by Montana’s cold winters? They’ll be smoothed out and repaired, leaving the surface ready for the new epoxy base coat (with dual polyaspartic coats layered on top). This process ensures that your floor will be durable and attractive.
Epoxy Coatings: Great for Montana
With Montana’s snowy winters, your garage floor faces a lot of wear and tear. An epoxy floor coating will protect it from moisture, temperature changes, and whatever else nature throws its way. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle everything from heavy-duty trucks to snow blowers, all while looking sleek. It’s the rugged protection your garage deserves, and it looks great to boot.