What You Should Know About Epoxy Installation
An epoxy resin is a great choice for many residential and commercial purposes; from commercial kitchens to industrial warehouses, and garages to yoga studios, epoxy is a versatile and durable flooring option that is perfect for nearly any application. Whether you plan on using a professional epoxy flooring service for installation or are looking to try it yourself, here is what you should know before an epoxy installation.
The Concrete Needs to Be Clean and In Good Condition
One of the biggest benefits of using an epoxy resin is that its application and texture allow some significant leeway with regards to the condition of your concrete floors. To a degree, epoxy can fill small cracks, and correct minor leveling issues. However, large cracks, deep holes, and significant problems with the level of the concrete slab will need to be repaired and fully dried before an epoxy installation.
Surfaces need to be prepared, cleaned, and dried prior to epoxy installation. Preparation may include any required repairs as well as concrete sanding, grinding, or blasting to help ensure good adherence with the epoxy resin. If you currently have flooring installed over your concrete slab, it will need to be removed and the concrete will need to be thoroughly cleaned. Failing to remove bits of tile, glue, oil-based stains, or other coating can cause adherence issues with the epoxy installation.
Epoxy Needs Time to Cure
There are several different types of epoxy resin, and a professional epoxy flooring service can advise you on the right application for your surface. One thing all epoxies have in common, however, is the need to cure. Cure times can range from a few hours to a few days, and during this time, foot traffic must stay off the flooring to prevent damage.
Consider Your Options
Epoxy is not a one size fits all flooring solution. There are several options that are specific to the intended use. If, for example, you are looking for epoxy flooring for a commercial kitchen, you may be interested in anti-slip additives, if you own a gym you may want anti-microbial properties. Other options include additional stain resistance, shock absorption, or static resistance.
An epoxy coating is also available in a wide range of colour, texture and finish options. Solid colour, flecks, logos, and lines can all be incorporated into your epoxy flooring. Your final product can be high gloss or matte, smooth or textured, or anything in-between. However, these choices need to be made in advance; if you are unsure of the best application for your intended use, consult with a professional epoxy flooring service.
