Tire Degloss & Transfer Marks on Garage Floors

When it comes to maintaining the aesthetic and longevity of your garage floor, the type of flooring you choose matters immensely. Polyaspartic garage floors are gaining popularity due to their durability, smooth finish, and resistance to stains. However, despite these benefits, polyaspartic surfaces are not immune to certain types of wear and tear, especially from something as seemingly harmless as your car tires.

One common issue garage owners experience is tire deglossing and tire transfer marks on polyaspartic floors. These marks may not only affect the visual appeal of your garage but can also be frustrating to remove. So, let’s dive into what causes these marks and how you can prevent them.

What is Tire Deglossing?

Deglossing refers to a phenomenon where the glossy, reflective surface of the polyaspartic floor is dulled or “scuffed” by friction from car tires. The process is quite simple: when you drive onto the floor, especially if your tires are hot or heavily soiled, the friction between the tire and the floor causes tiny abrasions on the glossy surface. This results in a dull or worn look in specific areas.

Hot tires are more prone to this effect. When the temperature of the rubber is elevated after a long drive, the friction between the tires and the floor becomes more intense, increasing the likelihood of deglossing. Additionally, certain tire compounds or oils used in manufacturing can interact with polyaspartic finishes, further enhancing the deglossing effect.

What Are Tire Transfer Marks?

Tire transfer marks, on the other hand, are different from simple deglossing. They occur when small amounts of rubber are left behind on the surface of the polyaspartic floor. When a tire rolls over the floor, especially if it’s damp or hot, rubber particles can be transferred onto the polyaspartic coating. These marks can look like dark streaks or smudges that are particularly noticeable against a lighter-colored floor.

Tire transfer marks are especially prominent when a car is idling in one spot or when tires are frequently turning without moving forward. The constant rubbing of the tire against the floor’s surface leaves behind the rubber residue.

How to Prevent Tire Deglossing and Transfer Marks

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1. Install Floor Mats or Rugs: A simple and effective way to prevent both deglossing and tire transfer marks is by using garage floor mats or rugs, particularly in the areas where your tires make the most contact. These mats can catch any excess tire residue and provide a buffer that helps protect your polyaspartic floor.

2. Park on Cold Tires: Allow your car’s tires to cool down before parking it on your polyaspartic floor. Avoid parking immediately after a drive, as the tires are more likely to transfer rubber onto the floor or cause scuff marks due to the heat. If parking immediately after a drive is unavoidable, try to park the vehicle in a section of the garage where it will not be subjected to high levels of direct friction with the floor.

3. Use the Right Tires: Some tire compounds are more prone to leaving marks than others. For example, high-performance or racing tires may leave more significant transfer marks due to their composition. If you notice that your tires are consistently leaving marks on the floor, it might be time to consider a different tire compound.

4. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Ensure your tires are clean before entering the garage. Tires with dirt, grime, or oil residues are more likely to cause marks on your polyaspartic floor. A clean tire is less likely to transfer rubber residue onto the surface. Additionally, periodic cleaning of the floor with a mild detergent and soft mop can help maintain the integrity of the floor’s finish and remove any marks that do occur.

5. Consider Garage Floor Coatings: Polyaspartic coatings, while resistant to damage, may become more susceptible to deglossing and tire marks if not applied properly. Ensuring that your polyaspartic coating is applied at the correct thickness and allowing proper curing time can help minimize these effects. At Elevated Coatings, we specialize in high-quality garage floor coatings that offer superior protection and durability, reducing the risk of tire-related damage. There are also topcoat treatments available that provide added protection to polyaspartic floors and further reduce the risk of tire marks.

6. Use Tire Shine Sparingly: While tire shine products are great for keeping your tires looking new, they can leave an oily residue on the floor when you park your car. If the floor is exposed to these oils, it may result in tire transfer marks. Consider applying tire shine sparingly or keeping it off your tires if you’re concerned about this issue.

Conclusion

Polyaspartic floors are an excellent choice for garages due to their durability and aesthetic appeal, but they are not impervious to the effects of tire deglossing and transfer marks. By following the preventative measures mentioned above, you can reduce the risk of damage and maintain your garage floor’s pristine appearance for years to come. If you’re looking to protect your garage floor with a professional coating, Elevated Coatings offers expert installation services that ensure your floor stays beautiful and functional for the long haul.

With a little care and attention, your polyaspartic garage floor will continue to be a reliable and attractive feature of your home.