Where to start when deciding on an Epoxy floor?

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I have to admit, I thought painting the garage floor was going to be an easy chore. I had done my basement with the Rustoleum Box stuff about 2 years ago and it wasn't too bad. However it scratches way too easy and its impossible to mop clean with the aggregate in use (no clear coat).

I stumbled upon this site about a week ago and while it seems Epoxy Coat is the clear preference, I'm overwhelmed with all the choices and opinions for all the different brands.

Here's what I'm working with:
*About 400 sq ft that houses 2 SUVs as daily use
*A garage floor that is original to the house (I think) dating back to the 1950's.
*Previous flaking of concrete top surface which has been patched, but not perfect. (see pictures)
*Pits in the surface that have not been patched, and don't plan to be. (3rd picture shows this the best)
*Two small kids that ride their bicycles and run into the garage
*A budget that is under $400 preferably (I just can't justify more than that for what it is). If I had a show car and a better financial situation it would be different.
*Garage opening faces West and gets full afternoon sun
*Service door that doesn't have much space as is to build up floor too much higher.
*I do not do any major mechanical work on cars in the garage, but will have the occassional floor jack and jack stands.

My main concerns are: 1)cost, 2)safety for the kids/wife--slipping 3)longevity--includes hot tire pickup, salt and mold resistance, 4)ability to clean easily and 5)overall feel/texture--will it hurt bare feet or skin knees?

Is there a fine line between shiny/easy to clean and slip prevention/"ouch" texture? I feel like I have to compromise somewhere on this...

I plan to etch the surface and ensure no water beads up on old stains. But I do not plan to have the garage shot blasted, or patch the small holes. If it is necessary than I will need to stage out the projects over time.

Again I'm not looking for a show car quality job, but I would like it better than I have today to help compliment the work I've put into the rest of the garage (painted cinder block walls, installed Storewall and accessory hooks/shelving, and new Geneva cabinetry). Sorry this is so long, hard to ask this type of question without setting the stage.

 

[jimmie jam]

subscribed..........

 

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So I was at my local Menards this morning and they had the Professional Grade Rustoleum 2-part epoxy kits on sale. I grabbed two kits (300-400 Sqft each) and a Clear Coat. I wasn't planning on buying anything today, but the sale was ending and I think for my needs this may just be good enough. I think I'm getting intimidated by all the information out there and driving myself insane for a grage floor that will not be showroom quality finish anyway.

I jumped on the clear only because it was $75, normally $99. I wanted the high gloss finish, but not sure I need this product. Is the color coat going to have a decent sheen to it already?

I feel like I have a few options and can return some things depending on what you all think. I really only need 1 color kit to cover my garage. But I read about the overlapping lines from not keeping a wet edge and that a second color coat tends to smooth this out.

I think I will start a poll to help decide.