Epoxy is becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility and long-lasting results.
If you are thinking about getting an epoxy floor coating, there are a few things you should know ahead of time to ensure that you are prepared for the process and can fully enjoy the results.
Epoxy floor coatings offer everything you could want in a floor coating, but common beginner mistakes can weaken or destroy the epoxy resin.
Here are seven things to consider before installing epoxy floor coatings.
1. The Type of Epoxy Resin
Consider that, like everything else in the world, epoxy resin does not come in a one-size-fits-all package. As a result, conducting extensive research on what type of resin, product, and material is appropriate for your space is the first and most important stage in your epoxy project.
Epoxy is a popular flooring material for a variety of reasons, the most important of which is that each type of epoxy resin is tailored to specific spaces, demands, and designs. If you are looking for a basement floor coating, garage floor coating, concrete floor paint, or even the best epoxy for floor levelling, thorough research can help you choose the best epoxy solutions.
2. Accurate Measurement of Epoxy Products
To ensure that your epoxy cures properly, carefully measure your resin and hardener. Calculate the number of elements required for your application. Start small. If you need more epoxy resin, simply return to this stage and make another batch to evenly distribute the epoxy. Use a graduated measuring cup to measure the epoxy resin. Keep an eye out for the point at which the bottom of the curved liquid surface, known as the meniscus, meets the lune, and pour the epoxy there.
If the epoxy is still warm, it will lay flat in the graduated measuring cup; however, wait a few moments for it to cool before calculating the amount of hardener needed. After measuring the correct amount of epoxy, add the required hardener to the epoxy mixture. A 2:1 volume ratio is required for the majority of epoxy systems. This means that for every one part hardener, two parts epoxy are required.
This is not, however, a universal epoxy scale; different manufacturers specify different proportions, and you can always double-check the ratio using the epoxy’s instructions. Before combining products, make sure the location, substrate, and epoxy you’re working with are all between 21 and 24°C.
3. The Reflectiveness of the Epoxy
Epoxy coatings can improve visibility at a job site without the need for additional lighting. Because of its high reflectivity, it can make complex tasks easier and safer for workers while also saving money on electricity bills by reducing reliance on electric overhead lighting.
4. Proper Mixing of the Epoxy Resin
If you’ve never mixed epoxy before, start with a small batch to get a feel for the mixing and curing processes. Fill a clean plastic, metal, or wax-free paper container with the appropriate amounts of epoxy resin and hardener. To avoid dangerous exothermic heat buildup, do not use glass or foam containers.
Before you begin stirring, keep in mind that mixing epoxy too quickly or for too long will introduce more air bubbles into the mixture. Unfortunately, adding more bubbles increases the likelihood of air bubbles in your final epoxy coat.
To do this correctly: Stir the two epoxy ingredients thoroughly for at least 1 to 3 minutes, or until the products have a uniform consistency. While mixing, scrape the sides and bottom of your container and make sure to reach all corners with the flat end of your mixing tool. Pour the epoxy as soon as possible onto a roller pan to apply it right away, extending the pot life and working time.
5. Beware of Air Emitting From Non-Sealed Materials
If you are applying epoxy to wood, concrete, or other porous surfaces, you must apply a sheer coat of epoxy first. A thin layer applied to a permeable material seals the floor coating and prevents air from escaping. Allow at least 6 hours after applying your sheer epoxy finish.
6. Bubbles Emerging After Applying Epoxy Floor Coating
Many epoxy formulations contain a degassing agent, which causes bubbles to rise to the top of the epoxy layers. If this occurs, you must be prepared to torch the bubbles out before the resin hardens and solidifies. Aim a low-heat gun parallel to the bubbled surface. Make sure the heat gun is not pointing straight down at the bubbles; it should always be at an angle.
7. The Purpose of the Epoxy Floor Coating
Epoxy flooring can be tailored to meet the needs of those who will use the space. For example, automotive showrooms require finishing touches that make epoxy flooring appealing while also ensuring that it is durable enough to withstand normal pressure from large vehicles. In contrast, epoxy flooring in industrial kitchens and bathrooms may require moisture and chemical resistance to protect the building’s structure and the concrete beneath the epoxy.
As a result, before embarking on any project, you should always consider the purpose of the epoxy coating.
Conclusion
Considering these factors will help you avoid making mistakes that could lead to the deterioration of your epoxy resin. The most important thing to remember is to proceed with caution. Learn the fundamentals of epoxy floors and always begin small. This will not only help you avoid mistakes, but it will also allow your epoxy to apply properly without wasting any additional epoxy or time.
