The Science Behind Epoxy: Why Prep Work Matters in the Pacific Northwest Climate
When it comes to epoxy flooring, one thing separates a floor that lasts for decades from one that peels or bubbles after a season — proper prep work.
Here in the Pacific Northwest, where moisture and temperature swings are a constant battle, surface preparation isn’t just the first step in the process — it’s the most important one.
At Westside Epoxy, we’ve seen firsthand how critical this stage is to achieving durable, professional results that stand up to Gig Harbor’s wet climate.
Why Prep Work Is Everything
Epoxy isn’t just paint — it’s a chemical bond. For it to perform properly, it needs a clean, open surface to grip to. That’s why every Westside Epoxy installation begins with mechanical grinding, not just a quick acid wash or broom clean.
Using an industrial planetary grinder, we remove surface contaminants like oils, sealers, and dirt, and open the concrete’s pores to create the perfect texture for epoxy adhesion.
This process allows the epoxy to anchor deeply into the slab, forming a bond that resists peeling, bubbling, and lifting even under heavy use.
The Pacific Northwest Challenge
Gig Harbor and the surrounding South Sound area are beautiful, but our weather is tough on concrete.
High humidity and constant moisture can seep through untreated concrete, leading to delamination.
Cool temperatures affect how epoxy cures, changing how it bonds to the surface.
Freeze-thaw cycles and rain exposure add stress to slabs, especially in garages or shops.
That’s why our prep process is tailored specifically to PNW conditions — ensuring every floor we install performs, no matter the weather.
Our 3-Part Prep Process
Moisture Testing: Before grinding, we check for moisture vapor transmission. If your concrete is damp, we use moisture-mitigating primers designed for our local climate.
Concrete Grinding: We mechanically grind the slab to open up the surface and remove contaminants, stains, and coatings.
Crack & Joint Repair: We patch imperfections and fill expansion joints to create a seamless surface before the epoxy goes down.
This detailed preparation ensures your floor isn’t just beautiful — it’s built to last.
Why DIY Kits Fail
Most DIY epoxy kits skip the grinding step and rely on acid etching or simple cleaning. In our humid environment, that’s a recipe for disaster. Without proper profiling, epoxy can’t form a chemical bond — it just sits on top of the concrete. Within months, moisture works its way up, causing peeling, clouding, or discoloration.
That’s why professional prep is non-negotiable in the Pacific Northwest.
Built for the PNW, Installed by Locals
At Westside Epoxy, we live and work right here in Gig Harbor, so we know what local garages go through. Every floor we install is designed to handle real Northwest conditions — from damp winters to busy summers.
Whether it’s a decorative chip system, metallic finish, or solid color epoxy, we take the time to do it right so you can enjoy a floor that looks great and lasts for years.
If you are thinking about upgrading your garage floor contact Westside Epoxy today to learn more about our professional installation process and see why prep work makes all the difference.
📍 Serving Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Tacoma, and the greater South Sound area.
