Introduction

Restoring a pitted concrete garage floor can significantly enhance the overall look and functionality of your space. By using a concrete resurfacer, you can easily rejuvenate the floor’s appearance at a reasonable cost, making it look as good as new. If your concrete floor has visible damage like pits, cracks, or craters, this step-by-step guide will help you repair and revitalize it, ensuring a smooth and durable finish.

Concrete resurfacer is a cement-based product that creates a fresh, uniform layer over the existing floor. For a standard two-car garage, the resurfacing process typically costs less than $200, with additional expenses for necessary tools bringing the total to around $300. The entire job can be completed in a day, although preparing the garage space might take longer.

Applying a resurfacer may be challenging for first-time users, but even if the result is not flawless, it will still dramatically improve your garage floor’s condition. And, if needed, a second coat can be applied to further refine the surface.

Materials and Tools Required

Materials Needed

  • Concrete Resurfacer: Choose a high-quality product like Quikrete Concrete Resurfacer or similar (such as Sakrete Flo-Coat). It’s wise to purchase extra bags to avoid running out mid-project.
  • Plastic Sheeting: Protect walls with at least 3 feet of coverage using 6-mil plastic sheeting.
  • Brush and Push Broom: Use a stiff brush and a durable push broom with hard bristles for cleaning.
  • Squeegee: Invest in a heavy-duty floor squeegee designed for spreading resurfacer.
  • Mixing Equipment: Use a powerful 1/2-inch drill with a mixing attachment to ensure a consistent blend.
  • Protective Gear: Rubber boots, gloves, and eye protection to safeguard against chemicals and debris.

Tools Required

  • Bucket
  • Floor squeegee
  • Power mixer
  • Pressure washer
  • Push broom
  • Trowel
  • Concrete cleaner
  • Concrete crack sealer

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Pitted Concrete Floor

1. Prepare the Floor

  • Clean the Surface: Remove any dirt, dust, and debris using a pressure washer or a stiff-bristle broom.
  • Degrease the Area: Use a concrete cleaner, like Quikrete Concrete & Stucco Wash, to eliminate oil stains. Rinse thoroughly and allow the floor to dry.
  • Inspect and Mark: Identify the areas with the most severe damage, such as cracks or deep pits, to prioritize during repair.

2. Etch the Concrete Surface

  • Apply a concrete etching solution to roughen the surface, enhancing the bond between the concrete and the resurfacer.
  • Rinse the etched floor with clean water and let it dry completely.

3. Patch the Pitted Areas

  • Mix the Resurfacer: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the resurfacer to a smooth, lump-free consistency using your power mixer.
  • Fill the Pits and Cracks: Use a trowel to fill in the damaged areas, ensuring the resurfacer penetrates deeply to create a stable patch.
  • Level the Surface: Smooth the patched areas so they blend seamlessly with the surrounding floor. Allow the compound to dry as recommended.

4. Resurface the Entire Floor

  • Application: Pour the mixed resurfacer onto the garage floor and use a floor squeegee to spread it evenly, working from one end of the garage to the other.
  • Quick Work: Resurfacers tend to dry fast, so work methodically and swiftly to maintain a consistent finish.
  • Curing: Let the resurfacer cure for at least 24 hours before walking on the floor, and longer before driving on it.

5. Seal the Concrete Floor

  • Once the resurfacing is complete, apply a concrete sealant to protect the new surface from moisture, oil stains, and future wear.
  • Ensure that the sealer is evenly applied and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum protection.

Consider an Epoxy Flooring Upgrade

If you’re looking for a more durable and visually striking finish, upgrading to an epoxy floor could be a great option. Epoxy flooring offers a high-gloss, professional appearance while providing exceptional resistance to chemicals, stains, and heavy foot traffic. It transforms the garage into a sleek, modern space with minimal maintenance requirements.

Advantages of Epoxy Flooring:

  • Durability: Epoxy coatings are highly resistant to impact, chemicals, and abrasions, making them ideal for garage floors.
  • Enhanced Aesthetics: The high-gloss finish not only looks impressive but also reflects light, brightening up the entire space.
  • Easy Maintenance: Epoxy floors are non-porous, making them easy to clean and maintain, unlike traditional concrete surfaces.

Upgrading to epoxy requires careful surface preparation, similar to the resurfacing process, but results in a longer-lasting, more durable solution. If you’re new to epoxy application, consider consulting with a professional to achieve the best results.

Conclusion

Repairing a pitted concrete floor in your garage with a resurfacer is an effective way to breathe new life into a damaged surface. The process is straightforward and can be completed in a day, giving your garage a clean, smooth appearance. For those seeking a longer-lasting solution, upgrading to an epoxy floor is a fantastic investment that not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also significantly boosts its durability and ease of maintenance.