Concrete is undoubtedly one of the most durable and low-maintenance building materials for garage floors. If you are interested in learning about the process of pouring concrete floors, this concrete flooring contractor in Franklin Park, Illinois is going to discuss everything you’ll need to know below.

Pouring a Garage Floor

Given that garages usually house cars, tools, and household items, property owners typically install their garage floor with simple cement. As one of the most trusted concrete and cement contractors in Franklin Park, Illinois, we always suggest homeowners hire professionals for their concrete work. But if you are thinking about doing it yourself, here is the information on how you can install good-looking, sturdy, and level garage flooring.

·       Remove all dirt and debris from the floor and even it out with a towel or any other leveling tool.

·       Construct a frame on the floor with wooden boards to keep the cement mix in and give you a precise area to work on. You can secure these with nails or weights to keep in place.

·       Mix the concrete in a wheelbarrow, and from its end, pour at least a 4-inch layer slowly and evenly on the floor.

·       Place rebar around the freshly poured concrete mix as well as in the middle if you are working on a larger area.

·       Make sure to smooth out the surface with a trowel as you move along and after pouring. There should be no irregularities, bubbles, or cement pools on the floor, especially in the corners.

·       Allow the floor to dry (known as curing) for at least a day or as required before lifting the wooden frame. If the boards are difficult to lift, leave the floor to dry for another day.

·       Hammer the surface once it is completely dry to ensure it is crack-free and the floor feels solid and sturdy to use.

Important Tips

·       Do sufficient research and understand the pouring specifics. A good pour will always hold up to the weight it needs to bear compared to a substandard pour.

·       Remove the topsoil and add (and compact) at least 4 inches of gravel to even the sub-base. It is a vital ground prep tip since most damage comes from what lies underneath the garage floor rather than what stays on top.

·       Vapor barriers may not be required, but you should install one to deter moisture from coming up through the (porous) concrete slab.

·       The flooring can be thicker if heavier vehicles or equipment will rest on it.

·       Expansion joints reduce the stress the floor bears when the concrete shrinks and expands under various circumstances.

·       The mix must be in the right proportion, i.e., a ratio of 1:2:4 (cement, sand, and gravel) to account for an easier pour without compromising the floor’s strength. Skilled cement contractors in Franklin Park, Illinois, use plasticizers, air-entraining agents, and fiber reinforcements to produce more robust floors.

·       When concrete cures, you can cover it with sheeting or spray curing compounds to reduce evaporation since the top must remain wet while concrete undergoes curing.

Looking for a Concrete Flooring Contractor in Franklin Park, Illinois?

Find a reliable and qualified concrete and cement flooring contractor in Franklin Park, Illinois to install your concrete floor. It is a unique task that requires a great deal of skill and experience. At Via Galante Cement Contractors, we specialize in installing concrete flooring, and we offer best-in-class services regardless of the size of your project. Contact us today to start installing durable garage floors in Franklin Park, Illinois. You can also email us at [email protected] and one of our team members will get in touch with you shortly.