When you build a garage, you have a frame built over dirt. You can choose what type of surface you want on the floor. The most common material used is concrete; however, some people consider using other materials, such as epoxy, stone, rubber tiles, and wood.
You can use wood for your garage floor, but it is important to make sure that it can support your car. On average, a car weighs 3000 pounds, so your subfloor needs to be installed to support the concentrated weight. It should also be noncombustible and nonabsorbent, which means that you will need to use wood that is fire-retardant treated and waterproofed.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Wood Garage Floor
There are both advantages and disadvantages to installing a wood floor in your garage. One advantage is that it makes the floor more forgiving to your body if you spend a lot of time working in the garage. Wood has some give to it, so it is easier on your back, your knees, and your feet.
In addition, wood can be durable and sustainable. You can use pressure-treated wood to hold heavier loads, and you can create a space for a home gym or a workshop that holds your tools. As long as you maintain it, it can be as sturdy as concrete and it is much easier to repair if it is damaged. It is easier to insulate a wood floor than concrete, which can help maintain better temperatures in the garage in the winter.
One disadvantage to wood garage floors is the danger of a potential fire. Make sure that the wood has been treated with a fire retardant. Wood can also warp with moisture and humidity, so you will need to make sure that the wood is sealed. Another disadvantage is the potential for pests.
How Do You Install a Wood Garage Floor?
If you want to install a wood garage floor, you need to strip everything and get down to the bare concrete. You need a flat surface to work on, so make sure that you remove any paint, debris, stains, or other materials that are on the concrete.
If you want to insulate your garage, you can place insulation materials under the floor. It is important to make sure that the wood is protected from any dampness or moisture, so it needs to be treated as well. By installing a membrane under the wood, it will insulate the garage and protect it from any moisture underneath.
Next, you need to consider the type of wood that you are going to use. Some people put a wood floor in the garage because they are converting it to living space. You can consider using pressure-treated plywood in this case, especially if you are going to install flooring over it. However, if you plan to continue using it for your car, you need to make sure that you use wood that is treated. You need to make sure that it will repel any oil or chemicals and moisture, so waterproofing is essential.
When you lay the wood, you will likely use an adhesive to secure it. You spread the adhesive and then place the wood on top of it. Make sure that you use a rubber hammer to get the wood together tightly. Once you have the floor done, make sure that you have a long rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door to keep water out and help with insulation.
What to Consider
If you are considering installing a wood floor in your garage, there are some factors to think about. A wood floor can support a car as long as it is built properly, treated, and durable enough. First, consider the surface you have. You might have a concrete garage floor that you want to convert or you could be starting from scratch. You can install a wood floor either way.
Next, you should think about how much cleaning and maintenance you plan to spend your time on. Wood floors can last a long time with proper maintenance, and keeping them clean will help them last longer. You may find that you need to sand and refinish the floors periodically to combat any wear and tear.
If you plan to use the garage as a workshop or spend a lot of time in it, the wood will be easier on your joints and your back than concrete would. Many people install wood floors because they work in the garage frequently.
A wood floor can be very attractive, and it makes the room warmer and more inviting. People often install wood floors because they are more attractive than concrete. You can also consider placing a large rubber mat where you park your car to protect the wood from leaks and drips.
Final Words
A wood floor can support a car, and people do install them in the garage. Although a concrete floor is more common, wood can be inviting, warm, and more comfortable.