Frequently Asked Questions
How many gallons of epoxy for a 400 sq ft garage at 10 mils?
Gal/coat = 400 x (10 x 0.001 / 12) x 7.481 = 2.49 gal. Two coats with 10% waste = 5.49 gal total. Round up to 6 gallons or 4 kits of 1.5 gal.
What is a mil in epoxy coating?
1 mil = 0.001 inch (one thousandth of an inch). Standard floor epoxy applies at 6-10 mils per coat. 10 mils is about the thickness of a credit card.
How many coats of epoxy does a garage floor need?
Typically 2 coats: a base coat and a topcoat. Some systems use a primer, base coat, and clear topcoat (3 coats) for maximum durability.
How do I calculate coverage per gallon for epoxy?
Coverage (sq ft/gal) = 1,604 / spread rate in mils (theoretical). At 10 mils: 1,604 / 10 = 160 sq ft/gal theoretical. Expect 130-150 sq ft/gal practical with waste.
What is the difference between water-based and solvent-based epoxy?
Water-based epoxy is lower in VOCs, easier cleanup, and safer for indoor use. Solvent-based has better adhesion, higher film build, and better chemical resistance. For residential garages, a 100% solids epoxy offers good performance. Industrial floors typically use 100% solids epoxy for maximum durability.
Do I need to etch the concrete before applying epoxy?
Yes. Concrete must be profile-etched (acid etch or shot blast) to create a mechanical bond. Diamond grinding gives the most consistent profile. Skip this step and the epoxy will peel within a few months. Test moisture levels - concrete must be below 4 lbs per 1,000 sq ft per 24 hours on the calcium chloride test.
How long does epoxy floor coating last?
A properly applied epoxy floor coating lasts 5-10 years in a residential garage, 3-5 years in a commercial setting, and 1-3 years in industrial or heavy-traffic environments. Reapply a topcoat (polyurethane or polyaspartic) over the epoxy to extend UV resistance and abrasion life.
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.