Are you considering epoxy floor coatings for your home or business? If so, it’s important to understand the facts about epoxy coatings before you make a decision. This article will cover the basics of epoxy as a material and 12 key facts about these popular floor coatings.
What is Epoxy?
Epoxy is a type of thermosetting plastic that comes in two parts: an epoxide and a resin. The components are mixed together and form a very tough film, which can be used to coat many surfaces. Epoxy coatings are very durable and resistant to most chemicals, making them a popular choice for flooring.
In recent years, epoxy has grown in popularity as a flooring choice in both residential and commercial settings. There are many different types of epoxy coatings that offer a wide variety of benefits.
Key Fact #1: Epoxy is two components, epoxide, and resin, mixed to create a very tough film. This film can be applied to various surfaces, including concrete, wood, steel, masonry, fiberglass, or other substrates. The mixture will form an extremely durable layer that resists most chemicals and has good abrasion resistance.
Epoxy coatings may also contain pigments that help to give it color as well as scratch-resistant additives depending on the type of epoxy coating.
Key Fact #2: Epoxy is a popular choice for flooring in both commercial and residential settings. It offers a sleek, modern look that is also very durable and easy to clean. Many businesses choose epoxy floor coatings because of their resistance to slips and falls, as well as the fact that they can be quickly and easily cleaned with a mop or broom.
Epoxy coatings are also popular in homes for the same reasons – they look great and are very easy to care for. Plus, they can add extra protection to your floors against wear and tear.
Key Fact #3: Epoxy coatings come in a variety of different formulations, each with its own unique set of benefits. Your contractor should be able to tell you more about what your particular formulation contains if you have any questions or concerns before they begin applying the coating.
Some common formulations include:
-Solvent-based epoxy coatings: These coatings are the most common type and are available in both a liquid and a powder form. They offer good chemical resistance but may be harmful to breathe in.
-Water-based epoxy coatings: These coatings are less harmful to breathe in but may not offer as much chemical resistance as solvent-based coatings.
-Two-part epoxy coatings: This is the type of epoxy coating that is mixed together before application. It offers the best chemical resistance and durability.
Key Fact #4: Epoxy floor coatings can be applied over a variety of surfaces, including concrete, wood, fiberglass, metal, and many others. In addition to being durable, epoxy coatings are easy to clean and typically protect the surfaces they are applied over.
Key Fact #5: Epoxy floor coatings tend to be more expensive than other types of flooring options, such as ceramic tiles or vinyl planks. It” s important that you weigh your options and consider all of your available choices before making a decision. If durability and longevity are what you’re after, then epoxy may be an excellent choice for your house or business!
Key Fact #6: Most epoxy applications don’t require extensive time for drying between coats. The total amount of time needed will depend on the size of the area being coated. You should ask your contractor for more information about how long you can expect the process to take.
Key Fact #7: While epoxy floor coatings are typically very durable, they are still susceptible to damage from chemical spills, stains, and deep scratches. If there is a chance that any of these may occur, make sure to cover the area with a tarp or something similar before beginning the application.
Key Fact #8: Epoxy floor coatings come in both solid and textured finishes. Solid epoxy floors have a sleek appearance, while textured finishes offer greater slip resistance.
You should discuss with your contractor what kind of finish would be best for you considering the traffic patterns of the room as well as whether or not there will be any high-chair or wheelchair traffic.
Key Fact #9: Epoxy floor coatings are very easy to clean, especially in areas that will see spills and slips frequently. However, it’s still important to test the chemical resistance of the coating before beginning application by pouring a bit of water on the surface in an inconspicuous area. If there is no change in color to the water after 15 minutes, then it means your epoxy coating has passed its chemical resistance test, and you can proceed with having it applied over your entire floor if desired!
Key Fact #10: With proper maintenance – including regular cleaning and repairs – most epoxy applications should last for at least ten years. This isn’t always true, though, depending on the severity of wear and tear your floor sees. A high-traffic area is more likely to need repairs or refinishing than a less used room would be.
Key Fact #11: Epoxy coatings aren’t always available in the same places you can buy paint, so it’s important that you get in touch with your contractor before you head out to the store on an impulse. You don’t want to spend extra time looking for something that might not even be sold at any of the locations near you!
Key Fact #12: While epoxy coats are generally very durable, they can still get chipped or cracked under pressure from heavy objects like furniture or machinery. If this happens, use some sandpaper (or create a sanding block) to smooth out the area and then apply a coat of epoxy sealant to help protect it from further damage.
If you’re looking for a tough, long-lasting floor coating, epoxy may be the perfect choice for you! These 12 key facts should give you a good idea of what to expect before making your decision. For more information, be sure to consult with your contractor.