8 Signs Your Denver Garage Floor Needs an Upgrade

Mar 5

Upgrade your garage floor to boost your home's look, durability, and longevity

Garage Floor Damage and Refinishing - Colorado

Colorado’s fluctuating temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles can take a toll on concrete, causing cracks, spalling, and other damage over time. We specialize in upgrading Colorado garages into beautiful, functional spaces.

The garage floor often gets overlooked in a never-ending list of repairs and upgrades, but it plays a crucial role in your home's overall condition. Colorado’s harsh winters, fluctuating temperatures, and freeze-thaw cycles can take a toll on concrete, causing cracks, spalling, and other damage over time. If your garage floor is still the original concrete, it's likely covered in years of dirt, grime, oil stains, and cracks. The garage can often be the first thing guests see when they see or enter your home and prioritizing its upkeep not only enhances your home's appearance but also contributes to its longevity, value and resilience.

Not sure if your garage floor needs attention? Look for these key warning signs.

8 common signs your garage floor is due for an upgrade…

1. Cracks and Fractures

Cracks and fractures in your garage floor are a common issue that can develop over time due to various factors. Natural settling occurs as the ground beneath your home shifts, causing the concrete to expand and contract. Temperature fluctuations, especially in regions with extreme weather changes (hello, Colorado), can further exacerbate this process by causing the concrete to expand in the heat and contract in the cold, leading to visible cracks.

Additionally, the constant pressure from heavy vehicles, storage units, and other equipment can gradually weaken the concrete’s integrity, resulting in fractures that may worsen if left unaddressed. Over time, these cracks not only affect the appearance of your garage floor but can also contribute to structural concerns, water seepage, and further deterioration.

Solution: Use a concrete crack filler for small cracks. For larger ones, consider polyaspartic coating—our signature service designed for durability, safety, and aesthetics. This advanced coating revitalizes old concrete floors while offering superior protection against wear and tear.

2. Uneven or Sunken Areas

Uneven or sunken areas in your garage floor can develop gradually, often going unnoticed until they become a significant issue. A poor foundation is one of the primary causes, as improper installation or weak soil composition can lead to shifting and settling over time. Water damage is another major factor, as moisture can seep beneath the concrete, softening the underlying soil and causing the slab to sink or crack. In regions with heavy rainfall, melting snow, or high groundwater levels, this process can accelerate, making the floor increasingly unstable.

Soil erosion beneath the slab also contributes to the problem, as shifting earth creates empty pockets that reduce the support for the concrete above. These issues not only affect the visual appeal of your garage but can also lead to functional problems such as difficulty closing doors, tripping hazards, and even damage to vehicles or stored items. If left unchecked, uneven or sunken areas can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs and further structural complications.

Solution: For major issues, consider mudjacking (concrete lifting) or re-pouring the slab.

Before applying our finishing coats, it is important to thoroughly preparing your garage floor. We do this by sealing cracks, addressing imperfections and leveling. Then, using an industrial grinder, we create the perfect surface for adhesion.

3. Pitting and Spalling (Flaking or Chipping)

Pitting and spalling often occur in garage floors, leading to a rough, uneven surface that can worsen over time. These problems often result from freeze-thaw cycles, where water seeps into the concrete, expands when it freezes, and causes the surface to break apart. Moisture penetration is another major factor, as prolonged exposure to water weakens the integrity of the concrete, making it prone to flaking and chipping. A weak concrete mix or improper curing during installation can also contribute, creating a surface that lacks the strength needed to withstand daily wear and tear. Over time, these issues not only affect the appearance of the floor but can also create safety hazards, making the garage less functional and harder to maintain.

Solution: Polyaspartic flooring with its smooth, seamless surface offers unprecedented ease of cleaning, moisture resistance and several other benefits.

4. Stains and Oil Spots

Garages are naturally prone to stains, as they endure years of exposure to oil, grease, rust, and chemical spills. These substances seep into the porous surface of concrete, making them difficult to remove with standard cleaning methods. Over time, accumulated stains can give the floor a dingy, worn-out appearance, even if the rest of the garage is well-maintained. Some chemicals can also degrade the concrete itself, weakening its structure and making it more susceptible to cracking and pitting. Persistent stains not only diminish the visual appeal of the space but can also create slippery surfaces, posing a potential safety risk.

Solution: Use degreasers and power washing for surface stains. Our high-performance polyaspartic floor coating is not only built to last but also enhances the look and functionality of your garage and can prevent set-in stains. Professionally installed, it creates a seamless, durable surface that resists stains, cracks, and abrasions. Plus, its easy-to-clean finish ensures hassle-free maintenance, keeping your garage looking pristine for years to come.

The entire family - pets included - can benefit from a clean, safe and durable garage floor!

5. Water Pooling or Poor Drainage

Standing water in a garage isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to significant and costly water damage over time. If your garage has had prolonged exposure to standing water, it can weaken concrete, encourage mold growth, and create slick, unsafe conditions. When water pools due to improper floor slope or settling of the foundation, it creates low spots where moisture collects after rain or snowmelt. If drainage systems are clogged or ineffective, this standing water can linger much longer than it should.

Over time, trapped moisture can penetrate the concrete, weakening its structure and leading to cracks or surface deterioration. Constant exposure to water can also cause discoloration, staining, and efflorescence—a white, powdery residue that forms when water brings salts to the surface of the concrete.

Solution: Refinishing these damaged areas can help with the appearance and safety in your garage. If necessary, install a garage floor drain or use a self-leveling compound to redirect water flow.

6. Slippery Surface When Wet

A slippery garage floor can become a serious safety concern, especially in a space where vehicles, tools, and foot traffic are common. This issue often arises when the concrete surface is too smooth, either due to wear over time or because it was never treated with a textured coating or finish. When moisture from rain, melted snow, or spills accumulates on an untreated concrete floor, it creates a slick surface that increases the risk of slips and falls. This problem is especially noticeable in colder climates where ice and snow frequently track into the garage, leaving behind moisture that lingers. Without proper traction, navigating the garage can become hazardous, particularly for households with children, pets, or elderly residents.

Solution: Use a non-slip textured polyaspartic coating, or install rubber mats for better traction.

We specialize in upgrading Colorado garages into beautiful, functional spaces.

7. Excessive Wear from Vehicles and Heavy Equipment

Garage floors endure daily wear and tear from cars, motorcycles, and heavy equipment, all of which contribute to gradual degradation. The repeated pressure of vehicle tires, especially in extreme temperatures, can cause concrete to weaken, leading to surface erosion, cracks, and stains. Additionally, tools, machinery, and storage racks add further strain, sometimes resulting in dents or chipped areas on the floor. In garages that double as workspaces or storage areas, heavy-duty use can take a toll much faster, causing visible signs of deterioration. Over time, an overused and worn-out garage floor not only loses its durability but also diminishes the overall functionality of the space, making maintenance more challenging.

Solution: Protect the surface with polyaspartic or epoxy coatings (7 Benefits of Polyaspartic vs Epoxy for Garage Floor Coating), or install garage floor tiles for extra durability.

8. Outdated or Ugly Appearance

An outdated or unattractive garage floor can make the entire space feel neglected, even if the rest of the home is well-maintained. Over time, exposure to dirt, tire marks, spills, and general wear can lead to discoloration, fading, and an overall dull appearance. Cracks, stains, and chipped areas further contribute to an unpolished look, reducing the garage's visual appeal. For homeowners who use their garage as a workspace, storage area, or even an extension of their living space, an aging floor can make the space feel uninviting. While aesthetics may not be the first priority for every homeowner, upgrading the garage floor can transform the entire space, making it cleaner, more modern, and more functional.

Solution: Upgrading with polyaspartic coating can transform your garage into a modern, polished space - opening up a world of possibilities in how you use your garage space.

Upgrading your garage floor is a smart investment that enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your home - see our three step installation process below. Addressing these common issues not only improves durability but also adds value and safety to your space. Whether you're dealing with cracks, stains, or wear and tear, there are plenty of solutions to restore and protect your garage floor for years to come. Don't let a neglected floor hold your home back—take the next step toward a cleaner, stronger, and more polished garage today!

Our Polyaspartic Flooring Installation Process:

Step 1 – Surface Prep & Repair

We begin by thoroughly preparing your garage floor, sealing cracks, and addressing imperfections. Using an industrial diamond grinder, we create the perfect surface for adhesion. Next, we apply a solid base coat of epoxy along with your chosen flake color for a customized look.

Step 2 – Flake, Seal & Coat

To ensure a flawless, long-lasting finish, we meticulously apply a polyaspartic top coat that seals and protects your floor. This final layer enhances durability while giving your garage a sleek, polished appearance.

Step 3 – Enjoy Your New Garage!

Once the coating has fully cured, your newly transformed garage is ready to impress. Durable, stylish, and easy to maintain, your upgraded floor is built to withstand years of use while maintaining its beauty.