Applying a protective coating is an effective way to spruce up your garage floors and safeguard the surface against impacts, spills, and cracks. The right floor coating can give your garage a brand-new aesthetic and protect the concrete underneath for decades. However, there are several types of garage floor coatings to choose from, each with different application steps, levels of durability, and life spans. We reviewed and ranked the best garage floor coatings so you can see which ones match up with your budget and garage needs.
Key Takeaways
- The Rust-Oleum Garage Floor Kit is our top-rated garage floor coating because it offers impressive coverage and long-term durability for an affordable price.
- The cost of a garage floor coating can range from $35–$290, depending on the type of coating you choose (epoxy, paint, polyurea, etc.).
- When shopping for a garage floor coating, it’s important to think about your preferred type of coating, the number of coats required, and your garage’s square footage.
Top 5 Garage Floor Coatings
- Rust-Oleum Garage Floor Kit: Best Overall
- KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint: Best Budget Option
- Colored Epoxies Clear Resin Coating: Best Epoxy Floor Coating
- Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete Sealer: Best Concrete Sealer
- MPC-275 Polyurea Coating System: Best Polyurea Coating
Compare Top Garage Floor Coatings
The table below highlights our top picks for the best garage floor coating options on Amazon.
| Product | Image | Size | Area Covered | Drying Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rust-Oleum Garage Floor KitCheck Price | | 180 fluid ounces | 500 square feet | 8–10 hours |
KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor PaintCheck Price | | 128 fluid ounces | 300–500 square feet | 2 hours |
Colored Epoxies Clear Resin CoatingCheck Price | | 384 fluid ounces | 674–750 square feet | 7–10 hours |
Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete SealerCheck Price |  | 128 fluid ounces | 250 square feet per coat | 4–6 hours |
MPC-275 Polyurea Coating SystemCheck Price |  | 256 fluid ounces | 400 square feet | 12–24 hours |
Our Reviews of the Best Garage Floor Coatings
We’ve researched and narrowed down the best garage floor coatings on the market to help you level up your garage aesthetic. Read on to learn about our top picks and their key features.
Best Overall
Rust-Oleum Garage Floor Kit
Good for: Homeowners who want a glossy, durable finish with just one coat
The Rust-Oleum garage floor kit comes with everything you need to coat your floors, including foam rollers, etching solution, decorative chips, and two polycuramine mixing pouches. The polycuramine solution has a self-leveling formula and only takes one coat to apply, but if your garage floor isn’t perfectly level, you may need 2–3 coats to cover the entire surface evenly. Still, the price is very affordable given that it covers 500 square feet and creates a highly durable protective layer, making it our best overall pick for garage floor coatings.
Pros and Cons of Rust-Oleum Garage Floor Kit
- Only needs one coat for level garage floors
- Is vehicle-ready in 24 hours
- Includes decorative chips for traction
- Requires etching for application
- May not cover as much square footage as advertised
Key Features
- Coating Type: Polycuramine
- Size: 180 fluid ounces
- Area Covered: 500 square feet
- Drying Time: 8–10 hours
What People Are Saying About The Rust-Oleum Garage Floor Kit
Most Amazon customers praise the Rust-Oleum garage floor kit for its professional-looking appearance and durability, claiming the end result looks like a showroom floor. However, to get those results, some users claim you have to use double the suggested amount of coating for a thicker layer, adding to your expenses.
Best Budget Option
KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint
Good for: Homeowners on a tight budget and garages that don’t receive much wear and tear
The KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint can cover a two-car garage in one coat for just $35, making it the cheapest coating on our list. Unlike epoxies and polyurea coatings, you don’t have to mix the paint with another compound before applying. This floor paint doesn’t offer much impact resistance, but it’s one of the most budget-friendly ways to protect garages that get light vehicle traffic.
Pros and Cons of KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint
- Costs less per gallon than most competing products
- Has a slip-resistant finish
- Doesn’t require any mixing to apply
- Doesn’t offer as much impact-resistance as two-part epoxy coatings
- Only available in two colors
Key Features
- Coating Type: Epoxy floor paint
- Size: 128 fluid ounces
- Area Covered: 300–500 square feet
- Drying Time: 2 hours
What People Are Saying About The KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint
Satisfied Amazon customers praise KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint for its affordable price, fast drying time, and impressive coverage with just one coat. However, others have claimed the paint peeled after they drove their vehicles on it, showing some concerns about durability.
Best Epoxy Floor Coating
Colored Epoxies Clear Resin Coating
Good for: Homeowners with a wide coverage area, such as large garages and basement floors
The Colored Epoxies Clear Resin Coating allows homeowners to create a thick, durable layer of protection with a glossy finish, shielding their floors from impact, moisture, and UV rays. It has low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and although you’ll still need proper ventilation, it’s less toxic than other options on the market. Plus, considering the size and coverage, it comes at an extremely affordable price, making it a great value as well.
Pros and Cons of Colored Epoxies Clear Resin Coating
- Resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light, which can help prevent sun damage and fading
- Comes in different color options
- Has low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for easier application in areas with less ventilation
- Takes a minimum of three days to apply
- Has a complicated application process
Key Features
- Coating Type: Two-part epoxy
- Size: 384 fluid ounces
- Area Covered: 674–750 square feet
- Drying Time: 7–10 hours
What People Are Saying About The Colored Epoxies Clear Resin Coating
Satisfied Amazon customers compliment Colored Epoxies’ Clear Resin Coating for its durability and appearance, while others praise the company’s helpful customer service. Still, some customers complain that the epoxy is too thin and doesn’t cover the advertised square footage if you apply a thicker layer.
Best Concrete Sealer
Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete Sealer
Good for: Sealing concrete driveways, patios, and garages from moisture damage
The Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete Sealer adds a water-resistant layer of protection to your concrete without changing its color or appearance. It won’t break down from UV exposure, and it prevents damage from rain, snow, de-icing salts, and freeze-thaw cycles, making it effective for both indoor and outdoor use. Plus, the application process is simpler than most of the other options on our list—a good fit for beginner do-it-yourself (DIY) projects.
Pros and Cons of Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete Sealer
- Doesn’t peel or flake
- Won’t change your floor’s appearance
- Fit for indoor and outdoor use
- Doesn’t offer much coverage area as some other products
- Won’t protect against impact damage
Key Features
- Coating type: Penetrating concrete sealer
- Size: 128 fluid ounces
- Area Covered: 250 square feet per coat
- Drying Time: 4–6 hours
What People Are Saying About The Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete Sealer
Customers who were happy with Siloxa-Tek 8500 Penetrating Concrete Sealer said it was easy to apply, effective at repelling water, and didn’t change the color or texture of their concrete surfaces. However, some customers said the sealer absorbed extremely quickly, so the gallon container didn’t cover much surface area. Others reported that water wouldn’t bead up after application, claiming the coating isn’t very moisture-resistant.
Best Polyurea Coating
MPC-275 Polyurea Coating System
Good for: Homeowners who want a thin, clear layer of protection that dries quickly
The MPC-275 Polyurea Coating System comes in a two-part mixture that becomes extremely hard and UV-stable after mixing. The solution dries quickly, leaving less than an hour to mix and apply it before it hardens. This may make the application more difficult for DIY beginners, but the coating dries in 50–60 minutes and your garage will become completely foot-traffic ready in just 12–24 hours.
Pros and Cons of MPC-275 Polyurea Coating System
- Has a simple mixing process with a 1:1 ratio
- Dries and cures quickly
- Won’t break down under UV light
- Beginners may find application difficult because of its fast drying times
- May scuff more visibly than competitors
Key Features
- Coating type: Polyurea
- Size: 256 fluid ounces
- Area Covered: 400 square feet
- Drying Time: 12–24 hours
What People Are Saying About The MPC-275 Polyurea Coating System
Satisfied customers praised the MPC-275 Polyurea Coating System for its easy mixing process, quick drying time compared to other polyurea coatings, and durable finish. However, some customers claimed that the product wasn’t self-leveling and was difficult to apply, while others reported bubbles in the final finish, showing varied results.
Types of Garage Floor Coatings
Most garage floor coatings serve the same general purpose—to protect garage floors from cracks, stains, and moisture damage. However, there are multiple types of garage floor coatings, each with pros and cons. Read our guide below for more information on which is best for your home.
Garage Floor Coatings
Here’s more information on some of the most common types of garage floor coatings:
- Epoxy coatings: Epoxies use a chemical reaction that bonds to the concrete and hardens to form a long-lasting and protective finish. Epoxy floors are very durable and resistant to both chemicals and impact. They’re also easy to maintain because the smooth, non-porous surface works well with standard household cleaning supplies. However, epoxy floors are notoriously slippery, so some manufacturers will add chips or flakes you can mix into the resin to provide more texture and traction. Most epoxies also lack UV-resistant features.
- Floor paints: Acrylic floor paints function similarly to other types of paints in that they adhere with a brush, roller, or sprayer, adding a layer of protection to the floor surface. While not as thick or durable as epoxy floor coating, floor paints still resist chemicals and oil stains. To create a more durable finish, some garage floor paint manufacturers add a small amount of epoxy to their formula.
- Polyurea coatings: Polyurea is a combination of two chemical compounds that creates a durable, yet flexible layer on top of your garage’s concrete. Because it’s flexible, polyurea can stretch without cracking, making it more resistant to temperature changes. Most kinds of polyurea also offer UV resistance, creating a better option for sunny environments that can damage other coatings.
- Concrete sealers: There are two types of concrete sealers: topical and penetrating. Topical sealers sit on top of the concrete and add a protective layer, sometimes creating a glossy finish. Penetrating sealers absorb into the concrete without changing the texture or finish of the surface, creating a water-resistant barrier. Penetrating sealers prevent water damage and cracking from snow, rain, and winter weather, which is ideal for driveways and patios. Neither type of concrete sealer adds much in terms of impact resistance.
Garage Floor Coating Buying Guide
Before upgrading your garage by investing in a floor coating, we recommend considering the installation and maintenance requirements of each paint type to help you find the right option. Start by examining your garage’s main use and the amount of foot and vehicle traffic the floor gets. Look into the square footage of your garage to determine how much paint coverage you need. Read our buying guide below for more information on the main factors to consider when buying garage floor coating.
Installation
The installation requirements for a garage floor coating will vary depending on the type of coating you buy. Most polyurea and polyaspartic floor coatings go on in a single coat and cure faster than epoxy-heavy coatings. For example, the Rust-Oleum’s Polycuramine coating is vehicle-ready within 24 hours of application.
Most garage floor paints, sealers, and epoxies require two coats to deliver a long-lasting and even finish, plus a few hours of dry time between coats. However, you can find paints that require only one coat.
Learn more about how to apply epoxy paint to your garage floor so you can decide whether epoxy resin, acrylic, or temporary flooring is the best choice for your home.
Garage Use
When deciding between different types of garage floor coatings, our team recommends considering how you use your garage. If you’re looking for a general protectant that can help your floor resist cracking and deter mold and mildew buildup, a simple concrete sealer or floor paint should work.
However, if you perform extensive car repairs and maintenance work in your garage, a waterproof and abrasion-resistant epoxy is potentially a better option.
Coverage
Manufacturers measure a coating’s coverage in square feet. Most paints cover around 500 square feet on smooth surfaces, while sealers cover around 250 square feet. Because of their thick and heavy-duty consistencies, garage floor epoxies typically cover less than 200 square feet per gallon. For reference, an average one-car garage is around 240 square feet, while a two-car garage is between 400–720 square feet.
Maintenance
We found that it is significantly easier to clean a coated garage floor than it is to clean untreated concrete. In general, both paint and epoxy are easy to clean because of their smooth finish and water-resistant properties. Weather-proof coatings typically only require soap and water to clean.
Garage Floor Coating Preparation and Installation
If you plan on resurfacing your concrete floors with a coating, we don’t recommend diving in unprepared. Most coatings require specific preparation steps to ensure the material adheres to your garage floor’s concrete surface. If you don’t follow the steps correctly, your coating could peel, crack, or create moisture issues. Follow the product’s manufacturer guidelines, as well as the steps below, to get the most out of your DIY garage coating installation.
Preparing for Installation
The installation process starts long before you apply your first layer of garage floor coating. Here’s a list of important steps to take before you get started:
- Assess the surface condition: Examine your concrete floors carefully for cracks, pits, spalls, or signs of damage that may need repair. Also check for oil stains, wax residue, or any chemical contaminants that you’ll need to clean before application.
- Repair any damages: If needed, you can fix any cracks in the concrete with a concrete patching compound and let it cure before proceeding to the next step. Similarly, use a degreasing agent to get rid of grease stains. It’s also important to remove any existing paint from the concrete. If the floor isn’t level, take time to level your concrete floor before moving on to the next step.
- Etch the concrete (if applicable): Some garage floor coatings, like epoxy and polycuramine solutions, require you to etch the concrete before applying a coating so it properly adheres to the surface. If you buy a floor coating kit, it will likely include an etching solution.
- Check your environment: Check the individual product description to determine the ideal conditions for use. Generally, most manufacturers recommend conditions between 50–90 degrees Fahrenheit. If coating indoors, make sure the area has proper ventilation.
- Check for moisture: Test your garage concrete for excess moisture that could interfere with coating bonding. To do this, tape down a two-by-two plastic sheet for 24 hours before coating and see how much condensation it has absorbed after that time.
- Cover surrounding areas: Before applying the coating, protect any surrounding areas with painter’s tape, drop cloths, or other coverings to prevent excess splatter or spills.
- Clean the floor: Scrub the floor with a broom or brush, rinse it with water, and let it dry completely. Make sure your floors are clean and there are no stains or debris before moving on to the coating application process.
Garage Floor Coating Application
Once you prepare the concrete surface, it’s time to apply your garage floor coating. These steps will vary depending on your chosen coating and the manufacturer’s instructions, but here’s a list of general steps to keep in mind:
- Apply the coating: Use a brush or roller to apply the concrete sealer to your garage floor. Floor paint and concrete sealers will need thinner coats than epoxy and polyurea.
- Let it dry: For most coatings, you’ll need to allow your first coat to dry before adding another. Make sure no one walks on the floor while it’s drying. Also, keep any moisture or debris from contacting the floor during this time.
- Add additional coats as needed: Most garage floor coatings require at least two coats. Floor paints may need a primer coat as well. If you’re not sure how many coats your floor needs, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Let it cure: Curing time refers to the time it takes for the coating to fully dry and develop its protective properties, which is different from regular drying time. Some epoxies dry to the touch within a day or two but can take up to several weeks to fully cure. Likewise, penetrating sealers can dry within a few hours, but can take several days to fully cure. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before walking or driving on your garage floor after application.
FAQs About Garage Floor Coatings
What is the downside of epoxy flooring?
The biggest downside of epoxy flooring is that it can become slippery, which is why many installers mix decorative flakes or chips in with the material to give it texture. Another downside is that most epoxies emit toxic fumes during installation, so if you’re planning a DIY installation, only use this coating in areas with plenty of ventilation.
How long do garage floor coatings last?
The duration of your garage floor coatings depends on what type you choose. Garage floor paints may last several years before you need to reapply, while penetrating concrete sealers can last more than five years. Epoxy coatings can last anywhere from 10–20 years, and polyurea coatings can last 15–30 years or more with proper maintenance.
How much does it cost to coat a two-car garage floor?
Coating a two-car garage costs roughly $500 with the Rust-Oleum Garage Floor Kit, our top choice for a DIY garage floor coating. However, you can find more affordable options, like $35–$70 with KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Garage Floor Paint, our budget-friendly choice. Your costs will vary widely depending on the type of coating you choose and the number of coats you need to apply.
Are garage floor coatings worth it?
In most cases, garage floor coatings are worth the investment because they protect your floors from cracks, stains, and discoloration. Applying coating can also increase the lifespan of the concrete beneath it. Coating your floors may even increase the resale value of your home, helping you recoup your investment.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best product recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of garage floor coatings with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older products with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued items. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY enthusiasts for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
