I recently received a call from a distressed customer. They were in a panic. Some new asphalt had been installed close to her home in State College, PA and upon returning home, she realized that the fresh road tar was stuck to her garage floor paint.
She was relieved to hear that the situation was most likely just temporary.STRONGHOLD FLOORS utilizes polyaspartic polyurethane and polyurea coatings in our garage floor coatings. These resinous coatings provide extremely high abrasion and chemical resistance. Most chemicals have a tough time permanently adhering to our garage floor coatings.
Historically, road tar, driveway sealers, and various other petroleum based products can be removed when in smaller concentrations – but often require use of solvents and chemicals that homeowners are uncomfortable using. STRONGHOLD FLOORS recommends that our customers contact us to determine the best course of action when regular cleaning is not sufficient.
Removing the Tar from the Epoxy Floor Coatings
I scheduled a time to visit and assist with removing the road tar and ensure no permanent damage had occurred. On the day of the visit, I packed various solvents and cleaning items, including some Goof Off Pro Strength Remover (which should not be used without guidance from our staff). I arrived to a floor that was in glossy and damage free, except for the four tire marks. The garage pictures show how evident the road tar was on top of the decorative chip, epoxy coatings.
The tar was stuck on the coatings and required some small, targeted applications of the Goof Off and some very careful scraping with a knife. Ultimately, I was able to remove it all – as can be seen in this final picture.
On a note from Diana:
Thank you Steve for your help on Sept 16! U Made my day!
Editors note: This article was revised on September 17th, 2023. Steve Galeone was the General Manager and Sales Manager for STRONGHOLD FLOORS.