Starting The Floor - FINALLY

[wjh0919]

Finally getting started on the garage floor. I looked into several options but finally decided on Armstrong Excelon VCT. Cost was a factor but when it was all said and done - I felt more comfortable laying the tile. I plan on using Wolverine Bondtite as a sealer for both gloss and slip resistance.

I'm planning a 2 foot gray border and white everywhere else. Gray is Armstrong 51904 (Sterling Gray) and the white is 7518. The gray matches the lower part of the walls and the white matches the upper half. I may still add a red border but there are forces telling me "don't do it".

I've been griding for a few hours already today. The plan is to grind tonight and all day Tuesday and be ready to lay tile on Wednesday. My daughter will be helping me lay the tile so we should be able to finish in a day. I will wet mop - probably several times - after grinding tomorrow before I start laying tile. I will apply the sealer next week.

Is there anything I'm missing?

 

[TONE]

Good luck with your project and post pixs when done.

Have fun!!!

 

[weicm3]

what's that floor grinder you're using? is it with diamond grinding wheel?

 

[wjh0919]

I don't remember the manufacturer's name - I rented from a local tool rental. Yes it does have diamond grinding wheels - three acutally - each about 6 inches in diameter. I was looking at the Edco grinder but I was told this works better and is easier to use.

Biggest problem is dust - the shop vac continually clogged up. I ended up broom sweeping as much as possible. I've mopped the floor three times so far and I'm guessing it a couple more are needed.

 

[wjh0919]

Ok - very long day. Tile is down and three walls are trimmed out. Last wall has the two garage doors. I'm leaving that for tomorrow. Overall turned out pretty good - if I don't say so myself.

My daughter was a great help. You gotta admire a kid who helps her dad lay tile rather than doing what the other kids may be doing!!

 

[tstang90]

Nice advice in here. I didnt ealize you ahd to grind the floor prior to laying a tile floor.

Id like to hear how your slip resistant coating works out for ya.

I love the tile and price but worry about moisture on the floor and slipping on it.
Id assume it'll be like stepping on a bananna peel if water/antifreeze or oil were to hit the ground.

 

[wjh0919]

I'm not convinced I needed to grind. I tried a few samples without grinding and they certainly stayed put. I felt grinding was a better option if only to improve my chances of success.

As for the slip - I look forward to seeing how the BondTite holds up.

I'm adding up the total cost and will update in a few days. I'm not sure I really want to know but it's necessary if only to help others make their decision about flooring. And - I'm hoping no one here will tell my wife - YIKES!!

 

[tstang90]

lol I wont say a peep. Thats what the slush fund is for.

I love the tile look cost that is posted on this site often. I worry about the slippery surface it may give off though when damp or wet.

Is the Bond Tite a wax type product that needs to be reapplied often? Or is it more of a clear coating that hardens up and and its a done deal?

 

[noslo04]

I'm adding up the total cost and will update in a few days. I'm not sure I really want to know but it's necessary if only to help others make their decision about flooring.

After adding it all up, hardwood flooring would have cost less than my epoxy project.