How to Choose an Epoxy Floor Coating
Epoxy floor coating is a durable two-part product made by mixing a resin and a hardener/activator. It’s a great choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Epoxy floor coatings are available in a variety of designs, colors, and effects. They can even be infused with metallic additives for an artistic look. Check this out!
Self-leveling
A self-leveling epoxy floor coating is a great way to turn old cracked and damaged concrete floors into attractive, low maintenance flooring surfaces. It provides a smooth and seamless surface that is resistant to stains, water, and chemicals.
In addition, this type of epoxy is a good choice for locker rooms and cafeterias because it is antimicrobial. It also is easy to clean and maintain.
Unlike roller-applied epoxy, which inclines to leave a rougher texture, self-leveling epoxy tends to create an ideally smooth, glossy finish that hides all imperfections.
The first step to installing self-leveling epoxy is priming the substrate. This should be done at least 24 hours before the self-leveling layer is applied. This is necessary to ensure a solid bond between the substrate and self-leveler.
Self-dispersing
Self-dispersing epoxy is an ideal choice for heavy-duty areas because it is incredibly durable and offers great anti-slip properties. It also has excellent mechanical strength, which makes it particularly useful in commercial garages and other spaces that receive frequent forklift traffic.
It is also a good option for areas that receive liquids, as it has anti-slip characteristics that help keep you safe when spilling anything. It can even be used in kitchens, bathrooms and locker rooms.
Vapor barrier epoxy is often utilized in labs and hospitals where static-sensitive electronics are regularly used and a clean environment is essential. It can reduce vapor emissions and prevent the buildup of combustible dust that can become hazardous if left on the floor for a long period.
It can be applied over concrete or wood surfaces and is usually used to repair cracks or blemishes on old epoxy flooring. It is also a popular choice for residential driveways as it can add a unique appeal to the property. It is also commonly used for adding logos, brand marks and decorative details to floors.
Graveled
Graveled epoxy floor coatings are a great option for decorative flooring. They come with colorful flakes that give the appearance of gravel. This option is also ideal for adding logos and brand marks to the surface.
Gravelled epoxy floors are a great choice for commercial and industrial applications. They can be found in sports places, offices, showrooms, warehouses and other areas with heavy foot traffic.
Epoxy floor coatings are extremely durable and withstand shock, water and stains. They’re also resistant to UV heat.
Another benefit of epoxy is its anti-slip properties. They prevent the risk of slips and falls, keeping you and your staff safe.
The most decorative type of epoxy floor coating, graveled epoxy floors can be customized with logotypes, brand marks and decorative details. This type is best for creative homeowners and business owners looking to add that unique personal touch.
Anti-slip
Anti-slip epoxy floor coatings are popular in commercial kitchens, showrooms, clinics and other facilities that require positive traction. They’re also common in locker rooms and sports venues.
There are several different types of non-slip additives that can be used to create an anti-slip surface for your epoxy floor coating. One of the more recommended ones is ground polymer grit (for example, Shark Grip).
This grit consists of very small micronized polymer beads that are soft to the feet and skin. It becomes translucent when mixed with a coating and creates very small bumps for grip.
Another type of anti-slip additive that creates a great surface for epoxy and garage floor paint is aluminum oxide. This type is much more aggressive than the grit above and works well for settings that want the maximum amount of grip possible or where there is an extremely slippery condition.
This type of non-slip additive can be more than most people want for a garage environment though! It can also create problems with catching mop strings and dirt when cleaning the floor. Additional info!
