Too Hot to Handle? No Tire Marks on FlakePoxy Garage Floors!
Tire pick-up, also known as hot tire pickup, is a common problem where heated car tires cause the garage floor coating-usually epoxy-to lift or peel off. This happens because tires heat up during driving, especially at highway speeds, and when parked, the heat transfers to the floor coating. As the tires cool and contract, they pull at the coating, causing it to lift or peel, damaging the floor's appearance and durability.
## Causes of Tire Pick-Up
- Use of low-grade or water-based epoxy coatings with low heat tolerance.
- Insufficient curing time of the epoxy, leading to weak adhesion.
- Poor surface preparation, such as dirty or oily concrete, which prevents proper bonding.
- Repeated exposure to hot tires in the same parking spot.
## How to Avoid Tire Pick-Up on Your Garage Floor
**1. Choose High-Quality Coatings:**
Use industrial-grade epoxy or polyaspartic coatings that are heat-resistant and designed to withstand hot tires. Products like Epoxy 325 combined with Urethane 645 provide excellent resistance to hot tire pickup and abrasion.
**2. Proper Surface Preparation:**
Thoroughly clean and degrease the concrete, especially in tire contact areas, to remove oils, wax, and contaminants. Mechanical grinding to profile the surface helps the coating adhere better.
**3. Allow Adequate Curing Time:**
Follow manufacturer guidelines for curing times to ensure the coating fully hardens and bonds to the concrete before parking vehicles on it. Avoid premature use of the floor.
**4. Use Protective Accessories:**
Consider placing tire mats, rubber runners, or parking pads under tires to create a barrier that reduces heat transfer and direct contact. These can protect the coating and prolong its life.
**5. Regular Maintenance:**
Keep the floor clean from debris and spills using mild cleaners. Regular inspections and touch-ups help detect and fix early signs of damage.
By following these steps, you can maintain a durable, attractive garage floor free from the damage caused by hot tire pickup. Contact FlakePoxy.com for material or installation services. I