How to Apply Epoxy Floor Coating

How to Apply Epoxy Floor Coating! Epoxy floor coatings are one of the most durable and longest-lasting types of flooring on the market. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Applying epoxy coating is a multi-step process, but once you know how to do it, it’s easy to apply and will last for years.

How to Apply Epoxy Floor Coating

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply epoxy floor coating:

Step 1: Clean the Concrete Surfaces

Before applying epoxy floor coating, all concrete surfaces must be clean. Any dirt, grease, or other debris will prevent the coating from adhering properly. If necessary, use a flat-edged shovel or scraper to remove any hard-to-remove material. Once all surfaces are clean, you can move on to step 2.

Step 2: Wet Flooring

When applying epoxy floor coating, the next step is to get the flooring. This can be done with a mop or a power washer. The important thing is to make sure that the flooring is completely wet before applying the epoxy. If there are any areas that are dry, the epoxy will not adhere properly and will not provide the desired results. Once the flooring is wet, it is important to allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Prepare the Acid-Etching Mixture

The next step is to prepare the acid-etching mixture. You will need one part muriatic acid to ten parts water. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when working with this mixture.

Step 4: Scrub and Etch

After you have pressure washed the floor and allowed it to dry, it’s time to scrub and etch. This step is important because it will help the epoxy floor coating to better adhere to the concrete.

You’ll need a stiff-bristled brush and a cleaner that is specifically designed for etching concrete. Once you’ve mixed the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions, wet the concrete and start scrubbing. Be sure to work in small sections so that the cleaner doesn’t have a chance to dry on the surface.

After you’ve scrubbed the entire floor, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. You may need to repeat this step if the floor isn’t sufficiently etched.

Step 5: Mix Epoxy Coating

The fifth step in applying an epoxy floor coating is to mix the epoxy coating. This is a two-part process that involves mixing the basecoat and topcoat together. The base coat is usually a clear or light-colored epoxy, while the topcoat can be either clear or pigmented. Once you have mixed the two coats together, you will need to apply them to the floor with a roller or brush.

Step 6: Apply Along the Perimeter and Roll on Epoxy

After you have mixed your epoxy, it is time to apply it to the floor. You will want to pour some of the mixtures along the perimeter of the room and then spread it out with a brush or roller. Be sure to work in small sections so that the epoxy does not dry before you have a chance to spread it evenly.

Step 7: Apply a Second Coat

If you are using a two-part epoxy coating, mix the two parts together thoroughly before applying the second coat. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the mixing ratio and application method.

Apply the second coat of epoxy in thin, even strokes, and be sure to overlap each stroke by about half an inch. Once again, work from one corner of the room towards the door to avoid trapping yourself in a wet area. Allow the second coat to dry completely before walking on it or applying any furniture.

Once you have finished applying the epoxy, you will need to let it dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it.

Conclusion 

After reviewing the surface you will be coating, it is important to prepare it accordingly. If there are cracks or divots in the floor, they must be repaired before any epoxy coatings can be applied. Once the repairs have been made and the floor has had time to cure, it should then be cleaned with a heavy-duty cleaner and allowed to dry completely. Any debris on the floor will prevent the epoxy from bonding correctly, so a thorough cleaning is essential for proper adhesion. After following these steps, you will be ready to apply your new epoxy floor coating!