Before installing epoxy floors, every detail matters — especially when it comes to cracks. Even small concrete cracks can cause peeling, bubbling, or weak spots later. The solution is crack-chasing and filling, a key preparation step that ensures long-lasting adhesion and a flawless finish.
At Superior Garage Floors, we chase and fill cracks using professional tools and high-performance epoxy materials built for Arizona’s tough climate.
What Is Crack-Chasing?
Crack-chasing means widening and cleaning concrete cracks before filling them. Technicians use a diamond-blade grinder to open the crack into a “V” or “U” shape. This allows filler to penetrate deeper and bond more effectively.
By chasing cracks, we remove weak edges, dust, and debris so the epoxy floor coating adheres evenly and cures without issues.
Why Crack-Chasing Is Important
Skipping this step can lead to problems down the road. Cracks that aren’t properly opened or cleaned trap air and moisture. Once epoxy covers them, the coating may lift or crack again.
Crack-chasing strengthens the slab, helps filler bond deeper, and prevents future movement from re-opening the crack — critical in Arizona’s hot, shifting climate.
The Step-by-Step Process
Our professional process ensures every repair is precise and clean:
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Inspect the Surface: We identify hairline and structural cracks.
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Chase the Crack: We use diamond blades to open the surface for filler penetration.
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Vacuum and Clean: Dust and debris are completely removed.
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Apply Epoxy Filler: We inject or trowel flexible epoxy or polyurea fillers.
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Grind Smooth: Once cured, we level the repair for a seamless surface.
This meticulous preparation prevents visible lines and ensures a smooth, flawless coating.
The Right Materials for Crack Filling
We select repair materials based on crack size, depth, and surrounding conditions:
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Epoxy filler: Ideal for structural and deep cracks; creates permanent bonds.
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Polyurea filler: Best for small or moving cracks; flexible and fast-curing.
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Cementitious filler: Works for shallow patching before decorative coatings.
Our team uses premium products that resist heat, UV exposure, and daily wear.
Timing the Repairs Before Epoxy
Timing affects every step of epoxy flooring. Crack repairs should cure at least 24 hours before applying the base coat. This allows fillers to harden and moisture to evaporate fully.
For same-day epoxy flooring, we use fast-curing materials that set in hours without sacrificing strength. Proper timing prevents bubbles, peeling, and poor adhesion later.
Why Arizona Floors Need Crack-Chasing
Concrete expands and contracts under Arizona’s heat and cool nights. Over time, that movement causes small fractures. Without proper crack-chasing, these weak points can resurface through your epoxy coating.
Homeowners in Phoenix, Chandler, and Mesa often see excellent long-term results when cracks are repaired before any coating goes down.
Avoiding Common DIY Mistakes
DIY epoxy projects often fail due to poor preparation. The most common mistakes include:
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Filling cracks without opening or cleaning them
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Using latex or silicone fillers that don’t bond properly
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Coating too soon before filler cures
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Ignoring surface moisture and pH balance
These shortcuts lead to visible cracks and short-lived coatings. Professional crack-chasing eliminates those risks.
How Crack-Chasing Improves Durability
When done correctly, crack-chasing strengthens your concrete base and extends the life of your epoxy. Benefits include:
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Tighter epoxy adhesion
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Reduced chance of future cracking
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Cleaner, more even floor surface
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Improved moisture resistance
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Long-lasting finish under Arizona heat
This preparation step protects your investment and ensures beautiful, professional results.
Integrating Crack Repair With Epoxy Systems
We perform crack-chasing and filling as part of a complete garage coatings or concrete coating system. Once cracks are filled and leveled, we grind the floor to profile the surface and apply primer, basecoat, and epoxy flake flooring for color and texture.
Our process guarantees a seamless, strong finish built to last decades — even in high-traffic garages or driveways.
Why Choose Superior Garage Floors USA
We take pride in doing every step the right way — from prep to finish. Our experts combine advanced tools, precision craftsmanship, and top-tier products like Sherwin Williams epoxy paint floor for unmatched durability.
We proudly serve Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Sun City, Surprise, Goodyear, Avondale, Litchfield Park, Tolleson, Cave Creek, and Carefree.
Final Thoughts
Crack-chasing and filling create the foundation for a perfect epoxy floor. Skipping these steps can cause early failure, but professional preparation guarantees lasting beauty and strength.
For expert crack repair and epoxy flooring in Phoenix and surrounding cities, contact Superior Garage Floors USA.
Call (623) 499-7878 today to schedule your free estimate!