Comparing garage flooring options in Michigan can feel overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the terminology. Cold winters, road salts, and year-round moisture make it even more important to understand what each term really means for long-term performance. Here’s a clear guide to the key phrases you’ll see as you evaluate coating systems.
Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy is a two-part material—resin plus hardener—that chemically cures into a dense, highly adhesive layer. Installers rely on epoxy, specifically moisture-mitigating epoxy, for direct-to-concrete primers and broadcast coats because it grips concrete exceptionally well. Its high-build nature provides the strength and structure needed for durable garage flooring that can handle Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Moisture Mitigation
Moisture vapor rising through concrete is one of the leading causes of coating failure. Without proper moisture mitigation, even a high-end system can bubble, peel, or delaminate. A moisture-mitigating epoxy primer solves this by forming a vapor barrier beneath the coating. It goes down thick, cures slowly, and deeply penetrates the concrete slab. While 1-day systems often skip this critical step, 2-day systems incorporate it for reliable long-term adhesion.
Concrete Paint
Concrete paint may look similar at first glance, but it is not the same as a true garage floor coating. Paint does not chemically bond to concrete, nor is it designed to withstand hot tires, road salt, or winter moisture. It typically wears down or peels within months—especially in Michigan’s harsh seasonal conditions.
Polyaspartic
Polyaspartic is a fast-curing, UV-stable clear coat known for excellent UV, chemical and abrasion resistance. It seals the flakes beneath it and protects the system from stains, salt, and sunlight. Although some companies promote all-polyaspartic installations, polyaspartic performs best as the topcoat layered over an epoxy-based system with proper moisture mitigation.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is another type of clear protective finish. While durable, it offers lower UV and chemical resistance compared to polyaspartic. In a garage exposed to winter runoff, deicers, and temperature swings, polyaspartic typically delivers superior long-term performance.
Flake/Full-Flake
Decorative vinyl flakes are broadcast into the moisture-mitigating epoxy base layer for traction and visual texture. A full-flake installation covers the entire floor, creating a thicker, more uniform appearance while enhancing durability.
Garage Floor Coating
A garage floor coating is a multi-layer system including a moisture-mitigating primer, full-flake coverage, and 100%-solids polyaspartic topcoats. Together, these components form a seamless, long-lasting surface built to endure Michigan’s demanding climate.
Ready for a floor that stands up to Michigan winters? Garage Floor Coating of Michigan installs premium garage flooring built for longevity. Request your free quote today.