Epoxy-coat vs. Ucoat-it

[Copenhagen848]

First of all, let me introduce myself. My name is Dave I am a new member here...starting to do research on some projects I'd like to do once my wife and I move into our brand new house in a few weeks. I've always wanted a finished garage and I'm planning on doing the floor first before it gets stained, etc. I don't do any real heavy work in the garage besides changing oil and jacking up my truck to switch out my wheels/tires for the winter months.

I've been doing research on this forum and by reading each company's web page. I'm either going to go with Epoxy-coat or Ucoat-it and I'm leaning more toward Epoxy-coat. I like the fact that it's only one coat and it's 100% solid and thick. However, I don't understand all of the "cutting" lingo (cutting brush, etc) associated with their product....what does that mean exactly? Does it simply mean to spread it out?

Also, can I just mix one batch to do the whole floor, or do I have to do several small batches? I don't really want a product that I have to let cure for 5-7 days or so before parking on it. I believe the website says "heavy traffic" is allowed after 24 hours, but what exactly is "heavy traffic"...parking my truck on it?

My garage is a two-car and is a little under 500 sq.ft. Will the standard kit of Epoxy-coat be enough? It says it covers 500 sq.ft., but I don't want to come up short. I also don't want to spend an additional $100 or so on the half kit when I may only need just a little more. Is their coverage estimate accurate with the 500 sq.ft.? It seems like a very good product and is very reasonably priced compared to other products on the market.

If I only need the one standard kit then I'll most likely go with that - can't beat the price and singe coat application IMO. Thanks in advance.

 

[timgr]

If cost is your concern, do a search for 'Devoe' here. Several members here have used their products, which are available through regular paint stores.

 

[bmacz06]

I was faced with the same decision you are just a couple of months ago. After doing extensive research I chose Epoxy-Coat and I am very happy with the results. I am planning on doing my other garage with Epoxy-Coat as well.

"Cutting" refers to trimming around the edges. One kit should work fine. It goes on pretty thin so you can spread it out pretty easy.

I would suggest that you take 2 days to do it and mix 2 batches. If you have expansion joints or saw cuts I would use those to divide it up. Assuming you have 4 sections I would 2 diagonals one day and the other 2 the next. This will give you the option to squeegee in one direction and then roll in the other direction.

Make sure you pick up an 18" roller and forget about the 9" roller in the kit.

 

[roger55]

Don't waste your money on Ucoat-it.
It's a really thin water based epoxy. Way, way too overpriced for what you get.

I did a long write-up on my experience with it quite a while back.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3607

 

[Copenhagen848]

I was faced with the same decision you are just a couple of months ago. After doing extensive research I chose Epoxy-Coat and I am very happy with the results. I am planning on doing my other garage with Epoxy-Coat as well.

"Cutting" refers to trimming around the edges. One kit should work fine. It goes on pretty thin so you can spread it out pretty easy.

I would suggest that you take 2 days to do it and mix 2 batches. If you have expansion joints or saw cuts I would use those to divide it up. Assuming you have 4 sections I would 2 diagonals one day and the other 2 the next. This will give you the option to squeegee in one direction and then roll in the other direction.

Make sure you pick up an 18" roller and forget about the 9" roller in the kit.

Ok, sounds good Thanks for the suggestions - the diagonal thing is a great idea

 

[Copenhagen848]

One other question about Epoxy-coat:

If I do it in two sections, will I have to get an extra bucket for mixing it again for the second application?

 

[Jaguar Fan]

One other question about Epoxy-coat:

If I do it in two sections, will I have to get an extra bucket for mixing it again for the second application?

Yes, get an extra bucket. I also suggest you get a 2nd roller frame -- you might not need it, but better to have it (& return it if you don't need it) than to discover you need it but don't have it. Also, of course, some extra brushes.

Some people go so far as to have a 2nd mixer for your drill -- I didn't (I wiped the mixer off after using it on each batch) & it was OK.

 

[ersatzs2]

There is a lot of experience w/Epoxy Coat in the archives, so do a search on tips etc. It is a great coating. I'm very happy with it after 2 years. The main advice I'd have is that to get the really nice coating you need 3X the amount they recommend. A thin coat will certainly work, but I put it on very thick and have never regretted the extra cost.

 

[fuzzymoto]

I've ben very happy with my Epoxy-Coat. More details here:

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14417


Split the batches up to make the mixing easier and to be able to apply them before they start to harden....again more details in my previous thread.

 

[victor07]

I used the Epoxy Coat as well. It' s been about two months and it shines as if it is still wet. For the price you can't go wrong with 100% epoxy from Epoxy Coat.

Also, their customer service is great and very helpful. One last thing, you really do not need a clear coat with this product.

I installed mine all at once, but you can divide it.

Good luck and keep us posted.

 

[roger55]

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3607

 

[Copenhagen848]

Thanks for all the replies fellas. I'm planning on ordering the Epoxy-coat and installing it in a few weeks or so....after we get all moved in, etc.

I also want to re-seed the lawn but I guess I'm going to have to find another forum for that project

 

[Treeman]

My first post in the flooring forum of this site. Turf is a type of floor, isn't it?

Right now (through mid September) is the best "window" for reseeding turf in Michigan. A bluegrass/fescue/rye blend is best, IMO, vs. pure bluegrass for resistance to disease, drought, traffic, etc.. Look at MSU's on-line extension material for the basics....they grew the Beijing Olympic turf in the "bird nest".

PM me if I can help more. Someday I hope to get floor advice here...."pay it forward" is the way I work!

 

[GearHead_1]

I can only tell you my experience. I've had my UCoatIt floor down for 3 years now. I did put two clear top coats on it. It looks just like the day it was laid down. It has seen moderately heavy use. I would buy it again in a minute.

 

[MDoneday]

I am a new member also, and just went through this same decision process. I ended up going with Epoxy-coat - just applied today. Easy instruction/application, great customer service. Will be posting a more detailed description once garage is completed.