How to Refinish a Garage Floor

Quck answer

To repaint a garage floor, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the surface: Clean the floor thoroughly by sweeping and removing any debris. Use a degreaser to remove oil stains and a concrete etcher to open up the pores of the concrete.

2. Repair any cracks or damage: Fill in any cracks or holes with a concrete patching compound. Smooth it out and let it dry completely.

3. Choose the right paint: Select a high-quality epoxy or concrete floor paint that is specifically designed for garage floors. Consider factors like durability, resistance to chemicals, and ease of application.

4. Apply the paint: Start by applying a primer to ensure proper adhesion. Then, use a roller or brush to apply the paint evenly. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

5. Add a protective topcoat: For added durability, consider applying a clear epoxy or polyurethane topcoat. This will protect the paint from abrasion and chemicals.

6. Let it cure: Allow the paint to cure for the recommended time before using the garage. This will ensure a long-lasting finish.

By following these steps, you can successfully repaint your garage floor and give it a fresh, clean look.


Refinishing a garage floor is a relatively simple process and a task that most homeowners will have to undertake at some point. Since the majority of garage floors are made of concrete, epoxy paint is the most popular choice for this project. Epoxy paint is resistant to grease and oil, which can stain the garage floor. Additionally, it is easy to clean.

Step 1

Begin by lightly sanding the floor. Use a handheld sander to smooth out any areas with loose or peeling paint.

Step 2

Thoroughly clean the garage floor. Start by sweeping the floor with a stiff-bristled broom. Then, use a spray bottle to apply bleach cleaner to any oil or grease stains. Once the bleach has penetrated the surface for about five to 10 minutes, use the broom to scrub each stain.

Step 3

Rinse the garage floor. If a simple rinse is sufficient, a standard garden hose will do the job. However, for stubborn stains, consider renting a power washer to help loosen them. Power washers are readily available at most large hardware stores. Repeat this process as needed until the floor is free of stains. Allow the floor to dry overnight.

Step 4

Repair any cracks in the garage floor. Although not essential for the painting process, it is recommended to address this issue during refinishing. For minor cracks, use concrete compound, similar to caulking, to fill them. Simply squeeze the compound into the cracks and let it dry. For larger damage, use concrete patch materials. Both of these items can be found at local hardware or home improvement stores. After repairing the cracks, ensure the floor is completely dry.

Step 5

Prepare the paint. If using epoxy paint, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing, as there may be slight variations among different paints. The amount of paint needed depends on the size of the garage floor. Whether using epoxy or standard concrete paint, pour it into a paint tray to begin painting.

Step 6

Apply the paint to the floor using a roller with a long handle attachment. Roll the paint on in a W shape to avoid visible track lines in the final result. Use a brush to cut in around edges and corners, as rollers cannot reach tight spaces.

Step 7

Allow the first coat to dry for a full 24 hours before applying a second coat. After completing the painting process, keep cars off the floor for three to five days to ensure the paint is completely dry.

Leave a Comment