Garage Floor Coating Myths (That Could Cost You $$$)

If you’ve been researching garage floor coatings, you’ve probably come across a lot of conflicting info. From internet forums to budget installers, the bad advice is everywhere.

At Gorilla Tuff Coatings, we’re all about cutting through the noise and helping homeowners in the Hudson Valley NY and near by New Jersey area make solid decisions. So today, let’s bust some of the biggest myths we see floating around — and save you from making an expensive mistake.

❌ Myth #1: All Epoxy Is the Same

Not even close.

There are water-based epoxies (cheap and weak), low-solids epoxies (thin and prone to wear), and 100% solids epoxies (what we use). The difference? Strength, thickness, and durability.

Cheap epoxy kits from hardware stores or cut-rate contractors might look good at first, but they don’t last. Make sure your contractor uses high quality material that will bond deeper, hold up to heat, salt, chemicals, and tire pressure.

❌ Myth #2: 1-Day Floor Systems Are Just as Good

We get this one a lot.

Sure, they’re convenient. But in our climate? That fast-cure approach often means the coating doesn't bond well or cure fully. That can lead to bubbling, peeling, or yellowing.

We take our time: full prep, moisture barrier, epoxy base, full flake broadcast, and a polyaspartic top coat that doesn’t rush the process. It takes longer — because it lasts longer.

❌ Myth #3: Flakes Are Just for Looks

Flakes aren’t just aesthetic.

We do a full broadcast flake system because it adds:

• Surface strength

• Traction

• Hides imperfections

• Makes the topcoat more durable

Sprinkling a few flakes here and there might look fine, but it won’t perform the same. It’s not just about the finish — it’s about performance.

❌ Myth #4: You Don’t Need a Moisture Barrier

Concrete is porous, and the ground underneath your slab carries moisture. Without a moisture vapor barrier, that water will push up into the coating and cause bubbling, discoloration, or delamination.

We don’t skip this step — ever. That’s why our floors stay locked tight and looking clean for years.

❌ Myth #5: It’s Just a Garage, It Doesn’t Need to Be That Good

Garage floors take more abuse than most people realize: hot tires, oil, snow, salt, foot traffic, dropped tools, etc.

If you go cheap now, you’ll pay for it later — by dealing with a cracked, peeling mess, that you will have to pay even more money to have it redone the right way. Avoid the headache and get a floor that can handle real life.

💬 Final Thought

When it comes to garage coatings, shortcuts and myths cost money. If you want a floor that actually lasts, skip the gimmicks and go with a crew that does it right.

We serve homeowners across New Jersey and the Hudson Valley, and we’re here to help you get a floor you’ll love for the long haul.

Ready to talk? Let’s make it happen.