Epoxy Floors

Epoxy, also polyepoxide, is a thermosetting epoxide polymer that cures when mixed with a hardener or accelerating agent. This mixture can be used on different types of floors and provides a uniform surface and color. Depending on the type of epoxy that is used, when applied to floors, a glossy or slick look may result.

Industries and Uses

Epoxy flooring has residential as well as commercial, industrial, community, and retail uses. Because epoxy flooring is safe to use by non-professionals, it is commonly applied by homeowners to cover garage and basement floors. Other uses include, but are not limited to: warehouses, loading docks and manufacturing facilities, retail stores, automobile showrooms, municipal garages, fire stations, EMS and other safety buildings. Epoxy flooring is also useful in schools, universities, laboratories, pharmaceutical and medical facilities, processing, packaging and bottling facilities, as well as in commercial kitchens and other steam-cleaned areas.

Advantages

The life of epoxy floors is generally long because they are durable and strong. Epoxy flooring is easy to maintain and clean. It is chemical- and fire-resistant. Because of this, epoxy floors work very well in areas that are subjected to excessive amounts of extreme chemicals. Epoxy flooring is also resistant to moisture, which reduces the possibility of accidents. Epoxy flooring is a smart choice for warehouses and other places of employment as they greatly decrease the risk of accidents to their employees.

Installation

For do-it-yourself installation, there are a few important things to remember. The two types of epoxy floor coatings are water based and solvent-free. Water based floor epoxy is thin, budget-friendly, and easily maintains the anti-slip texture of cements, while solvent-free floor epoxy is thicker, glossier, and excellent for covering flaws and imperfections.

Once you have decided which type of epoxy coating you would like to use, select the proper tools with which to work -- flooring sanders and protective gear like chemical masks and knee pads. Next, assess the surface of your garage or basement to make sure that it is free from water and oil, tire marks, dirt, or crumbling cement. The surface should be smooth, but not "too smooth." Installation may take several hours of labor and an additional several hours of "dry time," so plan ahead.

While installation can be done by amateurs, many experts still suggest that you consult a professional prior to installation or consider hiring a professional all together to ensure a flawless finish.