Garage flooring needs to be tough, durable, easy to clean, and most of all waterproof but what is the best way to achieve waterproof garage floors? Here are some ideas.

Before You Can Waterproof Garage Floors

If you are looking to waterproof an existing garage floor, there are some things that you need to do (also see waterproofers). Firstly, you need to look for any signs of damage. Any cracks, splits or holes will need to be repaired, as these can otherwise affect the integrity of the waterproofing that you use. You also need to make sure that the surface is clean and dry before waterproofing can occur. A level surface is also paramount so that the water does not have anywhere to pool. If your floor is not completely level, it will need to be ground or otherwise levelled to a perfectly flat surface.

Waterproofing Concrete Garage Floors

There are different ways that you can waterproof concrete garage floors. One way that gives permanent waterproofing that never needs to be reapplied is to use crystalline concrete waterproofing agents. These become part of the concrete itself, and crystals actually grow within the concrete in order to fill the pores and “empty space”, making it waterproof as the concrete is no longer porous. The crystals are actually capable of reactivating years later should the concrete develop cracks, filling the cracks to ensure that the waterproofing remains intact.

Another option is to use waterproof epoxies or paints. These are simply painted on to the floor of the garage and left to cure. They then provide an impervious surface. These are also known as waterproof concrete sealers. They can be a coating sealer or a penetrating sealer. You need to follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer.

Waterproofing membranes are another option and these are generally applied to the underside of the concrete flooring slab so that moisture from the ground cannot travel through.

Garage Floor Tiles

Another option for creating a waterproof garage floor is by using garage floor tiles. These are generally made from a type of plastic, such as polypropylene. Garage floor tiles are easy to install as they are simply clicked together. They are extremely hard wearing making it easy for them to cope with the weight of cars and they also resist chemicals, oils, and other spillages as well as water. Simply wipe clean should any spillages occur. Different colours are available so you can choose the one you like best.