If you’re exploring ways to upgrade the look and performance of your garage, you’ll encounter a lot of terminology. To help you navigate the garage flooring world with confidence, here’s a straightforward glossary of the terms you’ll see most often, along with what they actually mean for your floor in the Inland Northwest.
Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy is a two-component material made by mixing a resin with a hardener. When blended, it chemically cures into a dense, highly adhesive coating. In garage flooring systems, epoxy is often used as the primer or broadcast layer because it bonds exceptionally well to properly prepared concrete. High-build epoxies allow installers to create thicker, stronger flooring systems that stand up to hot tires, abrasion, and impact.
Moisture Mitigation
Concrete naturally releases moisture vapor, and if a coating cannot tolerate that vapor, it can peel, blister, or fully delaminate. Moisture mitigation refers to the use of a specialized moisture-mitigating epoxy primer designed to block this vapor transmission. Many 1-day systems skip this step, which is why 2-day systems are far more durable in Spokane’s freeze-thaw climate.
Concrete Paint
Concrete paint is a thin, cosmetic product that sits on top of the surface rather than bonding into it. Paints are not engineered for vehicle traffic, chemicals, or seasonal temperature swings, and they typically wear away or peel quickly.
Polyaspartic
Polyaspartic is a fast-curing, UV-stable material most often used as the topcoat in high-quality garage flooring systems. It resists chemicals, abrasion, and yellowing, making it ideal for protecting the layers beneath it. Although some companies market “100% polyaspartic systems,” polyaspartic alone cannot replace a moisture-mitigating epoxy.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is another type of protective clear coat used in some flooring systems. While durable, it generally offers lower chemical resistance and UV stability than polyaspartic.
Flake/Full-Flake
“Flake” refers to decorative vinyl flakes broadcast into the epoxy layer to add color variation, texture, and improved traction. A full-flake floor is one in which flakes fully cover the underlying epoxy, creating a thicker, more durable, and more visually consistent surface.
Garage Floor Coating
A garage floor coating is a professionally installed, multi-layer system designed to beautify and protect concrete. A high-quality system typically includes a moisture-mitigating epoxy primer, full-flake coverage, and dual 100%-solids polyaspartic topcoats. When these components work together, they form a seamless, long-lasting surface that outperforms DIY products and quick-cure 1-day alternatives.
Ready to upgrade your garage? Garage Floor Coating Inland NW installs premium, long-lasting garage flooring built for Spokane’s climate. Reach out today for a free quote and expert guidance.