Effortless Concrete Surface Upgrades with Epoxy Coating
Transform a drab and cluttered space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to your home with premium concrete coatings. These durable and long-lasting floor solutions provide unmatched durability, easy maintenance, and affordability.
Apply the base coat according to manufacturer instructions and leave it to dry. Then, mix the epoxy components together in a clean bucket, following their recommended ratios and working time.
1. Easy Maintenance
Epoxy coating solutions provide an excellent combination of aesthetic versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness that make them a great option for concrete surfaces in both commercial and industrial settings. These durable synthetic surfaces can easily withstand heavy foot and vehicle traffic, harsh chemical spills, and abrasive forces to protect the concrete underneath from damage and degradation. However, if you want to ensure the longevity and performance of your epoxy surface, it’s important to transform your concrete surfaces effortlessly.
Epoxies are typically made up of two parts: an epoxy resin and a polyamine hardener. When mixed together, these components trigger a chemical reaction that transforms the liquid epoxy into an exceedingly tough plastic surface. To achieve the best results, it’s important to adhere to the specific application steps as outlined in your chosen epoxy system. Thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove dirt, grease, and other contaminants is essential to promote a strong bond and prevent problems like bubbling and peeling. Applying a primer is also crucial to enhance the adhesion of the epoxy and ensure long-lasting performance.
Compared to traditional concrete paints, epoxy systems usually require a longer curing time. This can prolong the completion of your project and may prove to be a challenge in industrial settings, where downtime can be costly. To reduce the duration of your curing process, it’s important to have adequate ventilation and to ensure you’re using a quality epoxy system.
Once applied, epoxy systems are stain resistant and easy to clean. Regular cleaning can be performed with a dust mop or soft-bristle broom, and the textured surface of most epoxy systems offers added traction to prevent slippery conditions. In addition, the non-porous nature of epoxy surfaces means that any liquids that are spilt or accidentally spilled will wipe away without staining the surrounding area.
While a premium concrete coating solution may seem more expensive than other options, the superior durability and longevity of epoxy systems will reduce the need for repairs and replacements, making it a wise investment that provides long-term savings. While it’s possible to complete a DIY installation of an epoxy garage floor, it’s generally recommended that you hire a professional contractor for the job. These professionals have the experience, skills, and specialized equipment needed to achieve high-quality results that last.
2. Long-Lasting
The durability of premium concrete coatings eliminates the need for costly repairs and maintenance, which makes them a smart long-term investment for any garage or workspace. They can also add to the value of your home. Aesthetic options range from sleek solid colors to decorative flakes, creating an appealing design that can transform your space.
Superior Stain and Chemical Resistance
The non-porous surface created by epoxy coating prevents liquids, chemicals, and oils from penetrating the concrete and staining or damaging it. This is especially beneficial in garages, workshops, and industrial spaces where spills are common. The strong bond between the epoxy and concrete also resists abrasion and impact, making it suitable for heavy traffic areas.
Regular cleaning and care will ensure that your new epoxy surface retains its pristine appearance. Sweep the floor regularly to remove dirt and debris, and use a degreaser to clean oily or greasy areas. Use furniture pads and mats under heavy objects like toolboxes or workbenches to prevent scratching the epoxy surface, and protect it with a heat-resistant mat when working with hot tools or materials.
Surface Preparation
Depending on the condition of your existing concrete, a primer may be required to enhance adhesion and improve the longevity of the epoxy coat. If necessary, acid etching can be performed to roughen up the surface and promote the best bond between the epoxy and concrete. This can be done by renting a concrete grinder or using muriatic acid (be sure to wear proper safety equipment!).
Once the primer has had time to dry, the final epoxy coat can be applied. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely for application and curing, which will vary by product. For an added touch, some epoxy kits allow for the incorporation of coloured flakes into the finished coating during application.
With their durable and aesthetically pleasing designs, epoxy flooring is perfect for any workspace or garage. The low maintenance and longevity of the coatings make them an excellent choice for Florida homeowners, who can enjoy their garage or workshop without worrying about chipping and peeling.
3. Durable
Epoxy coatings add an extra layer of durability to concrete surfaces. This helps protect them from impact, abrasion, chemical spills, and heavy foot or vehicle traffic. The protective barrier acts as a shield, prolonging the life of the underlying concrete and saving money in maintenance costs over time.
With a wide range of color and finish options, epoxy is an excellent choice for a variety of design styles. The concrete surface is also more hygienic, with no cracks or crevices for dirt and dust to hide in. In addition, premium concrete coatings are able to stand up against UV rays, preventing the concrete from fading over time.
When properly applied, concrete epoxy can last for years without peeling or flaking. This durability is due to the hardening process that occurs once the resin and hardener are mixed together. The mixture is poured onto the concrete floor and spread using a roller in even layers. A squeegee or trowel can be used to help achieve a smooth finish. A heat gun may be used to pop any bubbles that arise during application. It is important to keep in mind that the epoxy has a “pot life” and should be used within its specified window for optimal results.
The concrete floor must be prepared prior to the application of the epoxy coating. Acid etching or grinding is often necessary to roughen the surface, helping it to adhere to the epoxy. Afterward, the surface is sanded to help create a smooth and level finish. A primer can be used if desired. It is important to use a primer that is compatible with the epoxy and that it be applied and cured in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Another way to improve the durability of a concrete floor is to apply a polyurethane or polyurea coat. This type of coating is very fast curing and has high resistance to abrasion and chemicals. It is a great option for garage floors and other high-traffic areas. However, it is recommended that a professional applies this type of coating as the installation process can be complex.
4. Affordable
The idea of an epoxy-coated garage floor may have conjured images of a luxury car showroom or other high-end commercial space, but this unique finishing option is actually quite affordable. Unlike paint, which requires frequent touch-ups and can eventually wear out over time, premium concrete coatings resist wear and tear for years to come, eliminating the need for costly repairs or replacement. Moreover, because they’re highly resistant to chemicals and other harsh substances that typically damage standard concrete surfaces, they require very little maintenance in order to keep their sleek, attractive finish.
Many people are pleasantly surprised to find that they’re able to afford an epoxy floor coating after considering the upfront cost. In fact, a number of clients have told us that they initially fell for the low-cost option of paint, only to realize their mistake when it began chipping and peeling after just a few short years.
With a variety of aesthetic options to choose from, including metallic, flake, and solid colors, you’ll be sure to find the perfect look for your garage. Furthermore, if you opt for an epoxy system that incorporates decorative color flakes into its mix, you can simply sprinkle them onto the wet coating before it cures, adhering to manufacturer’s specifications for application and coverage.
Additionally, compared to most other surface finishes, concrete coatings are resistant to UV rays and don’t fade over time. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy the rich, vibrant look of your new garage floor for a long time to come, making it a truly worthwhile investment.
A professional concrete floor coating will transform a standard garage or other space into an eye-catching, durable surface that’s ideal for use as a workshop, playroom, gym, or storage area. Contact Ontario Specialty Coatings today to schedule a personalized consultation, where we’ll help you select the ideal coating for your specific needs. With a wide range of products to choose from, including epoxy, polyurethane, and polyaspartic, there’s an option to suit every need. Our experts ensure longevity, quality, and correct adherence to the unique characteristics of your space, resulting in an unmatched durability and stunning appearance.
