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.

Adam Hansen
 

Adam is a part time journalist, entrepreneur, investor and father.