COVID-19 update from Encore Garage
Our showroom is now open daily! We continue to honor safety protocols while practicing social distancing. Come see us soon.
Over the years, we have tested a variety of alternatives and found that nothing beats the core strength of an industrial epoxy base combined with the flexibility of a Polyaspartic topcoat. While other firms may offer a one-day process using an “in and out” installation method with products that allow for quick application, we remain committed to the details of our two-day installation process that allows each layer to properly bond and cure. Taking the extra steps necessary, utilizing the highest quality products, and employing only full-time, highly trained technicians is what guarantees the integrity of the Encore system. It allows us to offer a lifetime warranty against lifting, chipping, or peeling on every residential floor we install.
Watch our Day 1 stepsTo start, we use diamond tip grinders to completely clean and prepare the concrete. Each crew carries a full range of diamond tooling so they can adapt to every type of concrete. This important step is vital in creating the proper surface for a durable bond and is a prime differentiator between our process and many other vendors in the market. After this first step, the concrete is like a sponge – ready to absorb and lock in the base layer of chemicals. Simple acid washes, sanding or brushing techniques do not create enough of a textured surface for durable bonding of any coating.
We test all floors for moisture content, applying a separate seal coat as needed. If any portion of the floor tests high, we seal the entire floor. While this moisture barrier adds a day to our process, we will not rush a job – ensuring that your floor will stand up to the challenging heat and humidity of Southwest Florida.
For any cracks, divots, or minor imperfections, we use an advanced, fast-curing polymer patching material to create a smooth surface. (Please note that we do not fill existing open expansion joints and strongly recommend that they remain in place.)
We then apply a pigmented base coat of an industrial-grade epoxy, made of 100% solids, to create the strongest possible bond with the exposed concrete surface. This is not retail grade, paint-on epoxy which will often peel and lift after only a short time – we use an industrial product sourced direct from a global manufacturer of flooring chemicals, with specific requirements for usage and application techniques. While there are a number of alternatives currently available, our epoxy is rated at over 7,500 PSI, more than twice the rating of most concrete. After 14 years of successful installations we have not found a product that bonds better with concrete floors in Southwest Florida.
While the base coat is still wet, we completely cover the floor with a full broadcast of colored PVC flakes giving the floor its dynamic pattern. The floor is then left overnight to properly cure – forming the lasting foundation of our system. While we have over 20 different colored flake blends in stock and ready to go, your choices are truly endless. For a small upcharge, we can custom blend flakes to create the perfect look for your garage floor.
For clients interested in a truly seamless look, we offer matching “baseboard” molding that is custom made in our shop from water resistant cement backer board. Available in any height from 4” to 12”, our baseboard provides the added benefit of creating a water resistant “bowl” around the floor, making it exceptionally easy to clean the entire space with a garden hose with no worries of water damage to exposed drywall or wood molding.
Once cured, the excess flakes are scraped away to reveal the “orange peel” texture of the floor. Because we broadcast a thick layer of flakes on Day 1, our finished product achieves 95-98% coverage.
Our final step is a Polyaspartic topcoat. This is perfect for concrete floors in Southwest Florida because it is stain-resistant, will not yellow over time, and provides flexibility due to its strong elongation properties even when fully cured. Our topcoat has been specifically tested to work with high-performance tires even in our hot weather climate. Easy cleaning with ammonia and water or Simple Green will keep your floor looking great for years to come.
Once the topcoat is down, you can walk on the floor after eight hours and drive on it after 24 hours.
Key features of our multi-layer flake flooring system:
We use a 100%-solids industrial epoxy with a built-in moisture barrier for the base coat, known for creating a superior bond to concrete. Our topcoat is a Polyaspartic coating that is highly stain resistant and remains flexible even when cured, resisting lifting and peeling.
While standard decorative flake floors do feature an “orange peel” texture, they should not be considered slip-resistant. For enhanced traction, we offer topcoat options with grip additive.
We prepare all concrete through mechanical abrasion using high-powered diamond grinders – even brand-new concrete. This process cleans and opens the porous surface, which allows our base coat to penetrate throughout, creating a superior bond to start from.
Unfortunately, we cannot apply our coating over existing coatings. We start with a pristine, freshly ground floor to ensure optimal bonding and longevity.
Yes, we utilize a fast-curing polymeric patching system compatible with our coatings to repair cracks, divots, and pitting, restoring a smooth surface.
The floor installation typically takes two days. You can usually return your car to the garage within 24 hours after completion, depending on weather conditions.
We can provide a 6’ x 6’ x 12’ storage trailer for your belongings at no charge.
We typically schedule projects 4-8 weeks in advance and request a 50% deposit to reserve your spot. The balance is due three days after completion, allowing you time to inspect our work.
Our residential garage floor coatings come with a lifetime warranty against lifting or peeling for as long as you own the property. This warranty covers both materials and labor.
Regular sweeping or blowing-off loose dirt & debris with a leaf blower is highly recommended.
For deeper cleaning:
1. Mix a solution of five parts water with one part ammonia.
2. Apply with a deck brush and scrub lightly.
3. Rinse with a garden hose and squeegee off excess water.
4. Air dry.
NOTE – Never use other household detergents or a power-washer on your epoxy garage floor. For tougher stains – CALL OUR OFFICE first.
With proper care and normal use, your floor should last as long as you own the property.
While the Polyaspartic topcoat may emit some odor as it cures, it is non-toxic and typically dissipates over 1-2 days.
Iced Coffee 1/4 (T)
Sanibel 1/4 (T)
Mojave 1/4 (T)
Gulfshore 1/4 (T)
Sedona 1/4 (T)
Iced Coffee 1/8 (T)
Scottsdale 1/8 (T)
Sedona 1/8 (T)
Dory 1/4 (G)
Blue Mist 1/4 (G)
Tidal Wave 1/4 (G)
Key West 1/4 (G)
Smoke 1/4 (G)
Blue Ice 1/4 (G)
Stonehenge 1/4 (G)
Silver Bell 1/4 (G)
Red Smoke 1/4 (G)
Red Ice 1/4 (G)
California 1/4 (G)
Creekbed 1/4 (G)
Stone 1/4 (G)
Volcanic Beach 1/4 (G)
Graphite 1/4 (G)
Volcanic Beach 1/8 (G)
Graphite 1/8 (G)
Smoke 1/8 (G)
Silver Bell 1/8 (G)
Stone 1/8 (G)
Base Colors: (C) = Cream, (T) = Tan, (G) = Grey
Custom Colors Available
Whether you live in Naples, Fort Myers, Marco Island, or virtually anywhere throughout Southwest Florida, our services are available to you.
Get a Free Estimate Call (239) 949-5584