Winter can be extremely damaging to concrete, especially in cold environments like Utah. This damage is often caused by the concrete freezing and thawing in uneven intervals, causing structural damage to the concrete which is compounded from one winter to the next. Common forms of damage are crumbling, separation, and cracking.
One of the principle reasons this damage occurs has to do with the water content of concrete. Because concrete is porous and already contains water it can easily become oversaturated during the winter months. When freezing occurs the natural expansion of the water will damage the concrete, causing frustration, costing money, and potentially ruining your spring cleaning. Given the sporadic freezing and thawing Utah sometimes experiences, this is a very real concern.
Most garages have concrete flooring, and many are unheated during the winter. This means that, although protected from direct rain and snow, they can be just as vulnerable to the damaging effects of winter as concrete which is exposed to the elements. Luckily there is an easy way you can protect your garage floor from harsh winter weather: epoxy coatings. Finishing your concrete garage floor with an epoxy coating can be a great way to ensure your garage floor is well taken care of and resistant to wear and tear.
One advantage to treating your garage with an epoxy coating is the increased moisture resistance the concrete receives as a result. During the winter your cars, kids, snow toys, pets, and other day to day items can track snow and water into your garage, but with an epoxy coating cleaning up is much easier. Usually you can do the trick with a broom or a mop.
Another advantage to epoxy coatings is the increased durability they give the concrete. The epoxy creates a mold and mildew shield, protects from chemicals, and resists stains caused by oils, dirt, and snow. They are also slip resistant and help decrease heat loss through the concrete, which can have potential energy savings during the Utah winter.
However, many homeowners may be worried about whether or not they can install epoxy coatings during the winter, and may incorrectly assume that the concrete will be too cold to accept it. Thankfully this is not the case. Although special precautions must be taken, concrete can still accept an epoxy coating no matter what time of year it is. This is good news, since you can have your garage or other concrete floors coated with epoxy and be back to using them in 24-72 hours, and spend the rest of the winter enjoying the benefit of an epoxy coating instead of having to wait until spring.
