Epoxy flooring is a great solution for those who want a hard, durable floor that is easy to maintain and looks good. It is also non-porous, so it won’t hold on to dirt or stains. It is a popular choice for garage floors as well as commercial kitchens and other high-traffic areas.
How to Install an Epoxy Floor
To install epoxy flooring, you need a few tools and supplies. These include a power washer, a shop vac, squeegees of various sizes and notches, rollers, spiked rollers to eliminate air bubbles, and protective gear.
You should also test the concrete surface for previous layers of sealant or other products that may prevent the epoxy from bonding. This is done by pouring a small amount of water on the surface and watching it soak in. If it beads rather than soaking in, then you have a floor that is not ready for epoxy coatings.
Ideally, the epoxy flooring should be installed by a trained concrete professional. This way, you can minimize the risk of a bad job and get the best results.
The cost of epoxy floor coatings can range from $0.37 to $1.40 per square foot depending on the type of flooring material and whether you choose solid or water-based epoxy. Solid epoxy is more expensive than water-based, so you should consider this when comparing prices.
If you decide to hire a professional, the company should give you an estimate before starting the work. This will ensure you don’t end up paying more than necessary.
Preparing the Concrete for an Epoxy Coating
When it comes to concrete, it’s important to make sure it is prepared properly before a new floor can be applied. This includes cleaning the surface, removing any paint or previous sealant, and removing grease and oil stains.
Once the concrete is clean, it’s time to apply the epoxy coating. This will take several days to fully cure. To ensure a smooth, even surface, the concrete should be leveled correctly before the epoxy is applied.
Using the Right Mixtures
When mixing epoxy, it’s crucial to use the correct ratios of resin and hardener. This will ensure a smooth, even surface and help the epoxy stay cured longer.
You should also mix the epoxy according to manufacturer recommendations and instructions. This will help it to stick to the concrete without forming bubbles or cracking.
If you’re unsure of how to mix the epoxy, talk with a concrete professional before you begin. They can offer a better price on epoxy flooring and provide tips and advice to ensure the job is done right.
Adding Additives for Slip Resistance
Before the epoxy is applied, it should be mixed with anti-slip additives that increase traction and create a non-skid surface. This will make the concrete safer for both workers and visitors to the building. View here to learn more about concrete professional .
You can find a variety of epoxy coatings with a number of different performance and aesthetic characteristics. You can choose from a gloss clear topcoat that makes the surface easier to clean, or a matte finish that hides imperfections and stains better. You can also find a variety of colors that will suit your garage floor’s needs. You can get more enlightened on this topic by reading here: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epoxy.