Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials and Tools:
epoxy paint
primer
paint rollers with lint-free, water- and solvent-resistant covers
nylon paintbrushes
concrete etcher (if needed)
concrete patch
stiff-bristle brush
pressure washer
safety goggles
rubber gloves
mask
electric fans

Step 3: Prep the Area

Epoxy paint will protect your garage floor and keep it stain-free. Epoxy paint and concrete cleaners emit harmful fumes, so make sure your work area is well ventilated with fans. Wear safety goggles, a mask and gloves.

Clean the floor thoroughly. Scrub stains with a stiff brush.

Rinse the floor thoroughly. A pressure washer will help with stubborn stains.

Fill cracks with concrete patch.

Step 4: Etch the Floor, if Necessary

Etching the concrete will make the paint adhere better. To see if your floor needs etching, sprinkle it with water. If the water is not absorbed quickly, apply a coat of etching.

A newly etched floor should dry overnight.

Tip: A properly etched floor has the texture of medium-grit sandpaper.

Step 5: Prime and Paint

Apply a coat of primer and let it dry for at least 8 hours.

When applying epoxy paint, use only nylon brushes and lint-free, all-purpose, solvent- and water-resistant roller covers.

Apply epoxy paint only when the air temperature in the garage is between 50 and 90 degrees F. Apply two thin coats of epoxy paint 24 hours apart.

Some epoxy paints come with color chips you can sprinkle into the wet paint.

Wait 24 hours before walking on your newly painted floor and one week before driving on it.

Touch up heavy traffic areas every year or so.