STL Coatings | Decorative Concrete Design

What is Concrete Pitting?

epoxy garage floor after expert installation

What is concrete pitting, and what can you do about it?

Do you ever notice Small Craters on your concrete floors?

Have you ever walked through your garage or basement and noticed those annoying little holes or craters marking your concrete floor? That is what we call concrete pitting. It’s not just an eyesore—it could be a sign of deeper issues.

What exactly is Concrete Pitting?

Concrete pitting happens when the top layer of your concrete starts to break down, leaving behind small, shallow holes. This degradation can be due to a number of factors but often comes down to the concrete’s exposure to salts (like those used for de-icing), chemical spills, or even just wear and tear over time.

Why does this Matter for Missourians?

Aside from looking a bit rough, pitted concrete can lead to bigger problems. These pits can collect water, dirt, and other debris, exacerbating wear and potentially leading to larger cracks or potholes. It’s not just a cosmetic issue; it’s a structural one, too.

Pitting is a big deal for those in Missouri, as we know all too well, each winter there are tons and tons of salt dropped on our roads. Where does that salt end up? In our garages. Causing ugly concrete pitting…

Curious how much St. Louis County drops on the roads each year? According to their website, St. Louis County salts the roads “when temperatures are 25 degrees and falling”. Read more about St. Louis County’s Salt Strategy.

What Causes concrete pitting?

  • Chemical Exposure: Common in garages and driveways, exposure to chemicals and salts can eat away at the concrete.
  • Poor Concrete Mix: If the concrete was mixed with too much water or poor-quality materials, it might be more susceptible to breaking down.
  • Environmental Factors: Extreme temperature changes and moisture can also lead to pitting, especially if the concrete isn’t properly sealed.

Say Goodbye to Concrete Pitting with Epoxy and Flake Flooring

Epoxy and flake flooring isn’t just about making your floors look pretty—although they do that incredibly well! Here’s how they help combat and prevent concrete pitting:
  1. Superior Protection: Epoxy is a sealant that adheres tightly to your concrete, forming a durable, impermeable barrier. This barrier protects against chemicals, oil, salts, and water—all of which can cause pitting.
  2. Flexibility and Toughness: Unlike plain concrete, epoxy combined with a flake flooring system provides a resilient surface that absorbs impacts and resists abrasion. This toughness reduces the risk of the concrete breaking down and forming pits.
  3. Moisture Resistance: Epoxy flooring seals the surface so effectively that it prevents moisture penetration, a critical feature especially in climates with severe weather changes. This moisture barrier helps avoid the freeze-thaw cycle that can lead to pitting.
  4. Ease of Maintenance: One of the best features of epoxy and flake floors is how easy they are to maintain. A simple sweep and occasional mopping with mild cleaners are all it takes to keep the floor in top shape, free from the debris and chemicals that contribute to pitting.
  5. Longevity and Aesthetic Appeal: Not only does epoxy extend the life of your floors by protecting against pitting, but it also enhances the overall look of the area. Flake flooring offers a variety of colors and textures that can brighten up a space and make it feel new.

Making the switch

Switching to epoxy and flake flooring can be one of the best decisions you make for your home or commercial space. It’s an investment in durability, safety, and aesthetics. You will no longer have to worry about concrete pitting—just enjoy a beautiful, hard-wearing surface that stands the test of time.

How much will it cost to redo my garage floor?

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