epoxy floor installationAn Overview of the Installation Process for Epoxy Concrete Coatings

Epoxy concrete coatings are making big waves in many different circles. Not only do the largest industrial factories want these surfaces supporting their equipment, but homeowners want these decorative concrete coatings installed in their garages and workshops.

So, how do you go about installing an epoxy concrete floor?

Preparing the Surface

As Concreteideas.com explains, before you apply any materials, you first need to prepare the existing concrete floor. Epoxy concrete coatings can be applied to a slightly rough floor, but it is important that the floor be clean and even. This means cleaning away all dirt and debris, and patching up any holes or large cracks.

Choosing Your Decorative Concrete Supplies

Epoxy coatings come in many different styles and colors. Many people choose to add color flecks to their coating. These flecks will reflect color and give the floor a shimmering or granite look or effect. These specks of color can also work to help hide any imperfections in the floor that the concrete coating is unable to hide on its own.

Applying the Epoxy

Applying epoxy to a floor is pretty similar to applying a coat of paint. Most epoxy coatings will require you to first combine Part A (epoxy paint) with Part B (Epoxy hardener). Combining these usually takes 2-3 minutes of mixing with a drill and mix paddle. Once the epoxy mixture is complete, and you are happy with the consistency and completely blended color, you can begin painting it onto the surface.

For thicker epoxy coatings we recommend a squeegee back-roll technique.  This is where you spill the material onto the floor and use a non staining squeegee to spread the material, then come back over the material with a roller to get a consistent coat.

The application may require two coats. You will need to let the first coat dry completely before applying a second coat. It is often best to let the first coat dry overnight.

Finish the Floor Using Another Coating or Wax.

Non-toxic concrete floor waxes are amongst the options to coat over an epoxy and they are most often used in maintenance situations and light foot traffic areas.  These are ideal in homes and small business.

Urethanes or Polyurethanes are a more durable option but cannot be buffed or maintained like a wax.  They will need re-coating but not for many, many years.

The final coat of the floor can provide a long lasting polished and glossy shine, and you will be eager to show it off to visitors.

Get Assistance of a Skilled Contractor.

This is simply a basic overview of how to install epoxy concrete coatings. To achieve the best results when coating your floors, it is recommended that you enlist the services of a concrete contractor who has experience working with decorative concrete supplies and concrete sealers, but if you are handy and want to do it we are here to help.

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