Finding a floor solution that can be able to withstand chemicals, stains and last long can be quite a challenge.
However, epoxy floor coatings have become very popular due to their durability, high-performing surface, chemical resistance features and its ability to withstand heavy loads. It is also versatile, which makes it a perfect match for commercial, educational, industrial and healthcare flooring.
If you want to know if epoxy floor coatings are the best option for you, then you can read on to find out more.
What is the Difference Between Epoxy Flooring and Coating?
Many people use these two terms interchangeably, but there is a difference between them. For an epoxy application to be referred to as flooring, it should be at least 2 mm thick.
Anything less than that is an epoxy coating. The coating creates a protective layer while the flooring offers some additional structural support.
Why is Epoxy Coating Preferred Over Other Flooring Options?
Epoxy floor coatings have outstanding qualities that make them superior over the other options in the market. Below are some of the reasons why:
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Durability
Epoxy coating is made of polyepoxide resin and a curative. These two are mixed before they are applied on the floor. The reaction from the two causes them chemically bond with each other and to the floor.
Doing so makes the coating stronger and more durable due to chemical bonding, which prevents moisture from getting underneath it. Also, the coating will not peel from the surface. Epoxy floor coating is also anti-fatigue and can be rolled out on cement without any glue.
Resistance
These types of floors are highly resistant to practically everything, from oil, bleach, cleansers, gasoline and many others. It is one of the reasons why many people incorporate them in the automobile industry, specifically in garages.
They are also water and heat resistant; hence, they tend to be impervious to many chemical spills and water without any side effects. Also, they have been used in hospitals and food and beverage industries due to them being resistant to germs and bacteria.
Variety
The best part about this coating is that it comes in a variety of colours that you can choose from to create that flawless shine that you have been dreaming of. It is not only used for commercial buildings and warehouses, but also at home or in driveways.
There are also many designs and patterns that you can pick from. You can either go traditional or have them personalised to your liking.
The different models can create a unique look for your home or office. It can also be combined with various paints to hide the cracks and chips on the already existing floor.
Affordability
The cost of epoxy floors per square foot is cheaper as compared to all the other types of flooring in the market. The installation costs are also lower than the rest since it can be installed over concrete and different types of flooring.
Any additional money that you could have spent on maintenance and replacement will be saved since these epoxy floor coatings are durable and will last long. They are the best option for someone looking to coat a large area, at an affordable price while ensuring that it is of high quality.
Protectiveness
Epoxy floor coating will protect the underlying concrete from any cracks, moisture, stains and grease.
This will ensure that the money you spend on floor maintenance will be eliminated since the floor will be protected from damages. The floor beneath the coating will last longer without any additional attention.
Epoxy Floor Coating Application
Having improper surface preparation will cause the epoxy floor to fail, which will not be good for you. It is therefore essential to ensure that adequate preparation of the surface is done. The coating will require a clean and porous surface for it to be done well.
Also, it is essential to ensure that the concrete is completely cured since the epoxy may not bond to any sealed or polished concrete. All the cracks and chips should be repaired before applying any epoxy to the surface.
A professional moisture test should be done first before any epoxy is applied to ensure that there is no moisture. Any humidity coming from the concrete flooring will prevent the bonds from forming. It will also slow the curing process, which will give you problems later on.
If the concrete is old, it is advised for one to test the surface for epoxy or other products that may have been applied previously.
An example of this is to check for sealant; what you should do is to pour some water on the floor. If the water does not soak in and instead lies on the surface, then that will mean that the floor has been sealed and may not be appropriate for an epoxy coating.
Also, you should ensure that the temperature is appropriate before any epoxy application. This is because unfavourable temperatures will cause it to peel off, which will not be great for you. One should also follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that they are doing the right thing.
Since epoxy is a two-part liquid that is mixed before its application, one should ensure that they apply the coating fast after mixing it. Not doing so will make it harden, which will make the process quite difficult for you.
Also, it is vital to know that the curing process takes time, with a minimum of about 24 hours before it can be walked on. For it to have complete curing and get to its final form, it will take up to 30 days.
Epoxy floor coatings are perfect for any facility; be it an office, house or a commercial building. However, before deciding on it, it is advised for one to call a professional contractor to analyse the floor and see if it is fit for this type of flooring. They will guide you on what you need to know and ensure that the process goes on smoothly, without any problems.
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