More Than Just "Garage Paint"
Many homeowners confuse professional epoxy systems with the DIY kits sold at big box stores. Those DIY kits are often water-based paints that peel after a single winter of hot tires and road salts.
Gaetano Cement Contractors installs High-Performance Full Flake Systems. We use industrial-grade resins and broadcast decorative chips (flakes) to "refusal," meaning the floor is completely covered. This creates a thick, durable, multi-layered shield that bonds permanently to your concrete.
The "Full Broadcast" Difference
When we say "Full Flake," we mean 100% coverage. We don't just sprinkle chips for decoration. We cover every inch of the wet base coat until it can't hold any more. Once cured, we scrape off the excess and seal it with a clear topcoat. This results in:
- Extreme Durability: The flakes add physical thickness and impact resistance to the floor.
- Hides Imperfections: The textured, multi-colored pattern completely masks small pits, cracks, and salt damage in the underlying concrete.
- Texture & Grip: Unlike smooth epoxy which can be slippery, full flake floors have a slight orange-peel texture for better traction.
Our 4-Step Installation Process
The secret to a floor that doesn't peel is preparation. We never use acid etching. We grind.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Diamond Grinding | We mechanically grind the concrete surface to open the pores (profile CSP 2-3) ensuring a permanent mechanical bond. |
| 2. Repairs | We fill cracks and pits with a polyurea filler that cures harder than concrete, creating a seamless canvas. |
| 3. Body Coat & Flake | We apply a tinted industrial epoxy base coat and immediately broadcast vinyl chips to 100% saturation. |
| 4. Topcoat | We seal the system with a clear Polyaspartic topcoat. This is UV stable (won't yellow) and chemical resistant. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use Polyaspartic instead of standard Epoxy for the topcoat?
Polyaspartic is superior for the final layer because it is UV stable (sunlight won't turn it yellow) and it cures much faster, allowing you to return your garage to service sooner. It is also more resistant to abrasion and chemicals.
Will hot tires lift the coating?
No. "Hot tire pickup" happens with cheap DIY kits because the bond is weak. Our process involves diamond grinding, which allows the industrial resin to penetrate deep into the concrete capillaries, creating a bond that is stronger than the concrete itself.
How long does the installation take?
Most residential garage floors take 1 to 2 days depending on the size and the amount of repair work needed. You can typically walk on it after 24 hours and park vehicles after 48-72 hours.