Why Do Garage Floors Crack and Pit?
In Northeast Ohio, road salts and freeze-thaw cycles wreak havoc on garage floors. Pitting (spalling) occurs when moisture gets trapped in the concrete surface and freezes, popping off the top layer. Settling occurs when the ground beneath the slab wasn't properly compacted.
At Gaetano Cement Contractors, we don't just pour over problems. We completely remove the old slab, address the sub-base issues, and install a new floor engineered to resist moisture and heavy vehicle loads.
Our Installation Standard
A garage floor is an interior slab, meaning it requires different finishing techniques than an outdoor driveway. Here is exactly what we provide:
| Component | Gaetano Specification |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Hard-Trowel Smooth Finish (Easy to clean) |
| Vapor Barrier | 6-mil Polyethylene (Prevents moisture wicking) |
| Reinforcement | Wire Mesh or Fiber Reinforcement |
| Isolation Joints | Expansion material along walls to allow movement |
| Door Apron | Pitched for proper water runoff |
The "Hard Trowel" Difference
Unlike a driveway which needs a "broom finish" for traction, a garage floor should be smooth. We use power trowels to create a dense, flat surface that is easy to sweep and resistant to oil stains. This smooth finish is also the perfect preparation if you ever decide to install an Epoxy Coating later.
The Installation Process
- 1. Removal: We jackhammer and remove the old floor, taking care not to damage your garage walls or foundation block.
- 2. Base Prep: We install and compact a stone base. Crucially, we add a vapor barrier to stop ground moisture from sweating through the floor.
- 3. Reinforcement: We drill steel dowels into the existing foundation (where applicable) and lay wire mesh to tie the slab together.
- 4. Pour & Finish: We pour high-strength concrete and use power trowels to achieve a smooth, professional surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before I can park my car in the garage?
You can walk on the floor within 24-48 hours, but we strongly recommend waiting 7 days before parking a vehicle to allow the concrete to reach sufficient compressive strength.
Do you seal the garage floor?
Yes, we apply a high-quality curing compound and sealer. This helps the concrete cure slowly (preventing cracks) and provides initial stain resistance.
Can you fix the "lip" where my driveway meets the garage?
Absolutely. This "lip" is often caused by the driveway settling. When we replace the floor (or the apron), we re-establish a flush transition so you don't feel a bump when pulling in.