If you’ve invested in an epoxy garage floor — whether we did it for you or you tackled it yourself — you’ve already made a smart move. Epoxy is one of the toughest and best-looking flooring options out there. But like anything in our part of the world, it needs proper care to hold up against the heat, humidity, and salt air we get here in SE QLD and Northern NSW.
I’ve installed hundreds of epoxy floors across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Tweed. And over the years, I’ve seen what works — and what causes problems. So here’s my straightforward guide to keeping your garage floor in top nick, no matter what the weather’s doing outside.
Why Sealing Matters in Our Humid Climate
We live in a region where moisture hangs in the air for most of the year. That might be good for your skin — but not for your garage.
Unsealed or poorly coated concrete is like a sponge. It’ll suck up moisture, trap it underneath, and before long, you’re dealing with:
- Mould and mildew
- Flaking and peeling coatings
- Musty smells
- Stained, chalky patches
A professionally sealed epoxy floor stops that moisture in its tracks. It creates a non-porous, protective layer that resists damp and stops nasties like mould and bacteria from taking hold.
If you’re using your garage as a workshop, gym, or storage space — this is even more important.
How to Avoid Mould and Moisture Problems
Even with the best sealing job, you’ve still got to keep things clean and dry. Here’s what I recommend:
- Keep airflow moving. Open the door or run a fan to help dry things out, especially after rain.
- Watch for leaks. Check any washing machines, water heaters, or stored items for drips.
- Clean up spills quickly. Oil, water, or even damp leaves can cause discolouration or slick spots.
- Use mats or rugs under high-use areas (like gym equipment or tool benches) to keep moisture away from the surface.
Humidity’s not going anywhere — but with a few smart habits, you can stop it from wrecking your floor.
Safe Cleaning Tips (No Harsh Chemicals, Please)
I see a lot of good floors get damaged because people use the wrong cleaning products. Remember: epoxy is tough, but it’s not bulletproof.
❌ Avoid:
- Bleach
- Vinegar
- Ammonia
- Citrus-based or acidic cleaners
✅ Instead, go for:
- A soft broom or microfibre mop
- pH-neutral floor cleaner
- Warm water and mild detergent (like dish soap) for everyday cleaning
- A degreaser made for sealed concrete (if needed for oil or grease)
And always rinse off any cleaner with water — especially in our climate, where residue can get sticky or tacky in the heat.
How to Extend the Life of Your Epoxy Floor
With the right care, a good epoxy floor can last 10–15 years or more. Here’s how to get the most out of it:
- Re-seal every few years — especially if you use your garage heavily
- Avoid dragging heavy gear or metal tools across the surface
- Use soft castors or pads under furniture or gym equipment
- Clean regularly to prevent grit from scratching the topcoat
- Tackle any damage early — chips or cracks can spread if left alone
It’s a low-maintenance surface, but it’s not no-maintenance. Think of it like your car — a little upkeep goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
An epoxy garage floor is one of the best upgrades you can make — it looks great, adds value, and stands up to our weather like a champ. But you’ve got to give it the right care, especially here in QLD where humidity can do damage fast.
If you’re not sure whether your floor needs resealing, or if you’re dealing with wear and tear, I’m always happy to take a look and give honest advice.