Should I put a tarp down in a new garage, or let it go until Spring?

I just bought a condo, and I am the first owner. That being the case, I need to seal the garage floor. I like to use epoxy paint for that job (the kind with the little speckles in it) but it has to go on when the concrete surface is above about 60 degrees F (or else it will peel), and those days are gone in my area until spring. I figure I have two choices

1. Cover the floor with carpet remnant or tarp until Spring. My concern is that moisture gets trapped under it and pulls out some of the soluble mineral componant of the concrete
2. Put down a piece of cardboard to catch any oil drips, let it go until Spring, power wash and do it then.

Any experts out there. Appreciate it. Thanks in advance.