Need Recommendations New Automotive Shop Floor

When I built my sf race shop in I did lots of research on what to put on the floor and it would be a DIY project. Much of the reseach was on the GJF. I ended with Rust Bullet from Justin Krauss; which I'm not sure that Justin markets anymore, ask him for the details.

This was my first venture into the garage floor coating skill set. I ground the year old concrete that had been sealed, washed it, swept it, vacuumed it, washed it some more. I chose an off grey color. Had some issues with application that I think were my problem. Justin and the chemist at Rust Bullet were very responsive, even while on vacation! The job isn't perfect, but this was my first rodeo and I learned a ton about a product that uses moisture to cure, the impact of solvent, how to apply, etc. Justin can tell you the chemistry involved in Rust Bullet.

I put on four coats. I had bought a small can of red Rust Bullet to create eight 12"x12" squares for the two race car tires to sit on when in the shop (great idea by the way!!!!!!!). But it didn't go on well and flacked off from the underlying RB. The RB chemist worked with me, told me how to rough it up and remove the loose first application, and sent me more red RB on their nickel. Those have turned out pretty good.

The floor isn't perfect, but I think its pretty good for a first time DIY job. There are some aspects of Rust Bullet I really like:

1. Its nice and smooth. I can kneel on it in shorts or support myself under a car with my elbows and its NOT uncomfortable.

2. Its nice and smooth. Using a fine bristled push broom I can clean up anything in one or two passes no matter how fine or coarse whatever is on the floor.

3. I'm in Wisconsin. So I track in water and snow (in-floor hydronic heat, so snow melts quickly) and much to my surprise the floor is NOT slippery! There is a tiny amount of texture to the Rust Bullet that apparently keeps it from being slippery when wet.

It has held up very well. It seems to be impervious to gasoline, oil, grease, gear lube, brake fluid, brake clean, carb clean, etc. Most stuff I clean up right away, but sometimes something leaks or spill that I don't see for a couple of days.

The Rust Bullet has held up pretty well to rolling floor jacks, sliding jack stands, and anything with hard wheels rolling across it. A car dolly steel wheel sliding sideways with a car on it can scratch the floor ... but that will scratch just about anything. I've dropped heavy tools and hammers on it. Most of the time nothing, no damage. Once in a while there might be a chip in the first layer and that's it. Any chip in the first top layer doesn't see to "grow".

The floor has held up much, much better than the concrete floor in the attached garage that worked out of for nine years.

I also put Rust Bullet on the plywood floor of the new race trailer I bought in . That has worked out equally well. What sold me on putting it on the trailer floor was how unslippery it was when wet ... rain and oil aren't very slippery on RB.

That's my story. I'm sure Justin can fill you in with more information on what he sells now that might be as good or better than Rust Bullet.

Goto KAIYAO to know more.

 

WATCH: Stonhard Has Solutions For Auto Dealership Service Garages 

 

The auto care industry is a key contributor to the U.S. market, with consumer spending projected to exceed $400 billion by [1]. Choosing the right floor for your auto garage, is a crucial decision balancing performance, safety, life-cycle costs, and the need to create an impressive, clean, high-tech space to wow your customers. Whether you're running a commercial repair shop or an auto dealership, your flooring choice needs to withstand heavy vehicles, chemical spills, and constant wear and tear. Seamless floors offer excellent protection and long-lasting performance, making it an ideal choice. Here&#;s a guide to help you choose the best floor for your space.

Seamless flooring systems are built to handle tough auto garage environments, with unmatched durability, chemical-resistance, and easy maintenance.

Durable Floors for Heavy Vehicle Use 

Auto garages face the challenge of heavy vehicle loads, oil spills, and impact from dropped tools or equipment. Resinous flooring options such as epoxy or polyurethane, provide the high durability required to handle such tough conditions.

These floors are engineered to:

• Support the weight of heavy vehicles and equipment.

   

• Resist damage from

  high impact

  ,

  abrasions

  , and tire marks, keeping your surface looking pristine.

   

• Offer

  chemical resistance

  to oils, brake fluids, and other automotive chemicals.

   

Auto Garage Floors that are Easy to Maintain 

Auto garages are exposed to oil drips, grease, dirt, and other substances that can stain or damage flooring. Resinous floors are ideal in this environment because they are seamless, non-porous, and easy to clean. Features to look for include: 

Want more information on automotive shop flooring? Feel free to contact us.

Additional reading:
When to Use Foil-Faced Batt Insulation

• Smooth

  , seamless surface: This eliminates cracks and crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate, making cleanup easier and more efficient.

   

• Chemical-resistant coatings: Prevents damage from the harsh chemicals used in vehicle maintenance, allowing spills to be wiped away without staining.

   

• Low-maintenance finishes: Resinous floors can be coated with topcoats that resist wear and tear, minimizing the need for constant maintenance or repairs.

   

Resinous floors with added texture for slip resistance provide a secure surface even in the busiest auto garages and service areas.

Seamless, Slip-Resistant Floors Make Auto Dealerships Safer 

In environments where oil and liquids frequently leak and spill, slip resistance is crucial. Seamless floors can be customized with slip-resistant additives to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents. Safety considerations to keep in mind include: 

• Slip-resistant texture: Some resin systems offer customizable

  textures

  to improve grip under wet or oily conditions.

   

Chemical and Stain Resistant Auto Service Bay Flooring 

Auto garages and service bays deal with chemicals like gasoline, motor oil, and brake fluids, all of which can stain or degrade traditional flooring materials. Urethane and epoxy flooring systems are highly resistant to these chemicals and can be formulated to provide additional protection against frequent exposure. This prevents deterioration and extends the life of the flooring.

Style can mean strength in auto garages, with floors that combine durability and customizable designs for a sleek finish that enhances any space.

Stylish Floor Design for Auto Dealerships 

Seamless floors are functional and can also enhance the appearance of your garage! They are available in a range of colors and finishes, allowing you to customize the look to fit your style. 

• High-gloss or matte finishes: Select a finish that reflects your desired look, whether it's a glossy, showroom-quality floor or a more subdued, matte appearance.

   

• Color and pattern options: Resinous floors can be customized with colors and patterns that complement your space, giving your garage a professional and sleek aesthetic.

   

Resinous Floor Installation and Lifespan  

Lastly, consider the installation process and long-term benefits. Resin floors are typically installed by professionals to ensure an efficient result. They require proper surface preparation and curing time but offer excellent longevity once installed. 

• Fast installation

  : With professional installation, resinous flooring can be applied quickly, minimizing downtime in your garage.

   

• Long lifespan: When properly maintained, resinous floors can last for decades without the need for frequent repairs or replacements, offering a great return on investment.

   

Choosing the right floor for your auto garage involves careful consideration of durability, ease of maintenance, safety, and aesthetics. Resinous flooring solutions offer the strength, chemical resistance, and customization options needed for an auto space that performs under pressure and looks great for years to come.  

Stonhard specializes in crafting high-performance flooring solutions for a variety of automotive environments. Our seamless floors are engineered for durability, chemical resistance, impact resistance and more, all while enhancing safety with slip-resistant finishes that have attractive and contemporary aesthetics. Click here to contact Stonhard today!

For more metal flooringinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.