We recently received a question concerning a solvent applied to a garage floor. "About 2 years ago I applied a Rust-Oleum 2-part solvent base product to my garage floor. The finish turned out to be dull. Can I now apply a 2-part solvent based or water based Clear Coat finish to obtain a gloss finish. I did everything correct upon the initial application, but it has always been dull."
A water based clear coat may be applied to a garage floor. Any oil based or two part solvent should not be used unless the warnings posted on the label state it is appropriate to use. All warnings printed on the manufacturer's label would supersede any advice provided from any outside source.
A water based epoxy will probably not leave a glossy finish because it is water based, just like a water based flat latex wall paint leaves a dull mat finish. The only sure way to get a glossy finish is to use a solvent based epoxy. The concern with that approach is that the earlier application of epoxy, that was applied, might react with the new epoxy in a negative way. Please note all manufacturers instructions when using a product.
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