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Understanding Epoxy Floor Coatings
The epoxy coating can be roughly divided into three types: solvent-based, water-based and 100% solid epoxy. More recently, you can also find pre-tinted or metallic coatings.
Solvent-based epoxy resin is the oldest type. It is a mixture of resin with a high concentration of solvent-based hardener. Allow to evaporate after application, mix resin and hardener generate toxic fumeslike ammonia and carbon monoxide. Wear a respirator during and after use to protect yourself from the fumes.
Next, you have water-based epoxy. It creates the same glossy finish as solvent-based epoxy, but is water-soluble so no solvent hardener is required. It does not leave any harmful fumes behind, but creates a stable, non-toxic and waterproof surface.
Third, there is 100% solid epoxy that doesn’t need to be mixed with solvent or water. It’s also more resistant to abrasion and chemicals than water-based coatings. However, due to its viscosity, you cannot apply this in thin layers. It also dries pretty quickly so you’ll have to work quickly when using it. It is better to have a professional handle this type of epoxy paint.
Finally, there is the metallic epoxy floor coating. It is a multi-layer coating system that contains a metallic additive. Metal pigments are painted with a roller or a brush and then twisted and rotated to make the “Vortex effect.”
Advantages and disadvantages of epoxy floors
Each type of flooring has advantages and disadvantages. To find out if epoxy is right for you, here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons.
Aesthetics: The glossy finish of epoxy makes it exceptionally appealing. You can also experiment with a variety of colors to complement the design of the room you are applying it to.
Cost savings: Epoxy floors are usually cheaper than other types of flooring, but by how much? According to Hips, Epoxy floors cost off 30 AUD to 35 AUD per m². Those who want a decorative finish will have to spend around A $ 80 to A $ 100 per square meter. Compare this to vinyl tiles, which cost roughly 40 to 100 AUD per m²or ceramic tiles that cost $ 90 to $ 125 or more.
Resistant: Epoxy floors are as robust as they can be. It is resistant to oil, gas, bleach, and other chemicals. You don’t have to worry if you spill a few drops of oil in your garage. It’s also resistant to bacteria and germs, which makes cleaning easier. For these reasons, you will typically find epoxy floors in medical facilities.
Longevity: When used correctly, epoxy flooring will last for decades without cracking or peeling. It’s also strong enough to withstand heavy traffic.
Semi-permanent: Epoxy longevity is both a blessing and a curse. Removing and updating the epoxy coating is an expensive and labor intensive process.
How to apply epoxy floors
Applying epoxy requires thorough preparation. Be patient with cleaning the concrete surface to make sure the paint adheres well.
Prepare materials
You can buy do-it-yourself epoxy flooring kits from hardware stores. This includes primer, epoxy, and decorative flakes. Here is a list of all the products and tools you will need if you want to buy materials individually.
- Two part epoxy paint
- bucket
- Cleaning / degreasing solutions
- rubber gloves
- respirator
- Wellington boots or spiked shoes
- 32% hydrochloric acid
- Hand sander or scraper
- Concrete fillers (for cracks)
- Wet-dry vacuum
- brush
- Brush with stiff bristles
- Power scrubber with brush attachment
- duct tape
- 9 inch paint roller
DIY epoxy flooring application
- Smooth the concrete surface with a hand sander or scraper. Sweep or vacuum away the dust.
- Fill in all the cracks and imperfections. Get rid of all the dust.
- Spray the entire floor with water. Then use a power scrubber and degreasing solution to clean the area. Use a brush to scrub corners that the device cannot touch. When the floor is clean, use a wet and dry vacuum cleaner to clean it.
- Pour 12 ounces of 32% hydrochloric acid into a bucket filled with 15 cups of water. Sprinkle the mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle the acid mixture over a 10 x 10 foot area and scrub with a long handled brush for 10 minutes. When you’re done, rinse three times to make sure the acid is completely gone.
- Wait overnight and make sure the surface is dry.
- Mix epoxy and solvent or water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the epoxy solution into a second bucket to make sure the liquids are thoroughly incorporated.
- Apply duct tape just under the door and perimeter. Line the edges with epoxy resin with a hand brush.
- Use a brush to paint the rest of the area.
- Once your first coat is dry, apply a second coat. If desired, apply anti-slip coatings or flake epoxy chips.
- Paint the bottom 4 inches of your walls. This will serve as a protective base.
Hire a professional
If you don’t like the idea of scrubbing concrete and rolling paint, it might be wise to hire a professional. Choose a contractor who applies at least three coats of 100% Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) epoxy resin.
Receive quotes from multiple contractors. You can also find Quote generators online.
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6 ideas for epoxy floors
6. Use it in the kitchen
If you’re worried about staining tiles with spaghetti sauce, epoxy is the perfect solution. It is resistant to most materials and makes the kitchen easy to clean and wipe.
5. Go with the basics
You don’t always have to use decorative epoxy. The cheapest gray finish is good enough for a garage or basement.
4. Non-slip bathrooms
Make cleaning the bathroom a breeze with epoxy coatings. Be sure to use Anti-slip additives to make the surface safer when wet.
3. Emulate marble floors
You don’t have to pay a top dollar to get the elegant and luxurious feel of marble. Use a metallic epoxy coating in your living room and you’re good to go.
2. Keep it simple
The classic gray epoxy coating can even be used indoors. Combine it with exposed brick for the charming modern industrial look.
1. Step on lava
Mix red with other colors to create that otherworldly lava-like finish.
Choose epoxy for your home
While epoxy coatings were traditionally used for garages and basements, new epoxy coatings can now be used for other rooms in your home, such as your home. B. for the kitchen or the bathroom. Instead of limiting your options to tile, wood, and other traditional materials, try something new and unique. Once the epoxy coating has dried, you will impress your guests with your stunning, glass-like floors.
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