What Is Epoxy Floor Coating?
Have you ever walked into a commercial or industrial building and admired the concrete flooring? More than likely it was an epoxy floor coating that made the floor smooth and durable. Most commercial and industrial businesses choose epoxy floor coating because of the smooth durable surface that is durable for heavy loads and lasts for years. Not only are they durable, but easy to clean and they provide a safer environment for employees and equipment.
The Advantages of Epoxy Floor Coating
- Shiny high-gloss surface that is appealing and increases the brightness of interior spaces
- Durable hard surface to withstand continuous and heavy
- Quick and easy installation
- Does not require cutting or additional adhesives, special tools or equipment
- Easy to clean
- Oil, stain and water-resistant
- Can be painted with various colors to cover chips and cracks
- Prevents wear and tear on existing concrete floors
- Virtually maintenance-free
How To Apply Epoxy Floor Coating
Before you apply epoxy coating to a floor, there are a few things needed. The floor needs to be slightly porous and the surface needs to be free of debris, dirt and grease for the epoxy to adhere. You will need to make sure the concrete is cured and patch all major cracks. If there are stains on the concrete clean them the best you can with industrial cleaning products. If the stain is set so deep you cannot remove it, you can use a sander or sandblaster/grinder to smooth out the floor and remove stains or paint.
It is always a good idea to test a small area of the surface to see if there are old layers of epoxy applied previously. Then test a small inconspicuous area by pouring water onto the floor. If it soaks into the concrete, more than likely there is no previous epoxy. If it beads up on the floor, that is a clear sign of sealant. You will need to sand or grind the layers off before applying new coats of epoxy.
Next, you will need to check for moisture by taping a tarp over the entire floor. Let sit for a day or two, and check under the tarp to see if moisture has accumulated. If moisture is present, you will not be able to use the epoxy floor coating efficiently and should find a different type of floor coating.
Once you have determined there are no underlying layers of epoxy, check the temperature of the room you are applying in. The best rule of thumb is to read and follow the manufacturer’s directions as you have a short window of time after you mix the two parts before it hardens. If you apply the epoxy at the wrong temperature, you risk bubbles and peeling.
Some types of epoxy will need a primer and finisher coat before applying. Primer is typically applied the same as pain and will need several hours to dry before applying the epoxy. Typically, you will apply a thin layer of water before laying the primer with a paint roller across the entire floor. Once the primer is dry, you may need to apply a second coat. Once both coats are completely dry, apply the finisher coat with a paint roller. The finisher coat will not need a layer of water. Let dry overnight.
Cleaning Up The Epoxy Flooring
Once the floor is completely dry and does not feel sticky, it is time to clean the floor and get it ready for use.
Sweep the floor of any dust. You may use a soft swifter mop or a dry dust mop. A vacuum can even be used for the first cleaning; however, you will need to make sure the floor is completely dry as the weight of the vacuum can cause marks on your floor. At this point, your floor should be shiny and look like a showroom.
While these steps to apply epoxy floor coating sounds pretty easy, it is best to have a professional apply the coating. It is also advised to use the best formulation of liquid floor coatings. Adhesive Lab specializes in concrete epoxy and polyurea floor coatings for industries such as:
- Manufacturing plants
- Distribution centers
- Commercial and Industrial areas
- residential spaces and concrete floors such as garages, basements food industry
- Health care and medical centers
- Aerospace
- Transportation
- Laboratory
- Hangars
- Parking and Garages
- Bridges
With warehouse locations in Vaughan, Ontario, and Gatineau, Quebec, and distribution centers across Canada, we are the top epoxy floor coating supplier in Canada.
