Epoxy Flooring: Three Planning Tips for a Durable Surface
If you are looking for a reliable industrial-grade floor for your garage, you should think about using epoxy. Epoxy floors are ideal for these spaces because the material is highly durable. It can withstand pressure and stress without degradation. The material is also appealing, and there are numerous attractive colours to consider. Besides, the completed surface will be easy to clean, and it will protect the underlying substrate from damage. If you are planning on installing epoxy flooring for the first time, consider using these tips for good results.
Know the Material
You should understand the chosen epoxy resin before use. This will allow you to prepare adequately for the application process. Keep in mind that different products will have varying instructions on their usage due to the specific formulation. Under ideal circumstances, you should read the guidelines provided by the manufacturer on the product, especially concerning the preparation. Where possible, you should ask for a test sample from the supplier. This will give a better understanding of the compound.
Sand the Surface
If you have a smooth, high-gloss floor in your garage, you should plan for preparation by sanding. This is crucial for promoting the adhesion of the epoxy to the surface. If the main substrate is too refined, the new layer of material will not stick. Consequently, the epoxy flooring will not be as durable as expected. For instance, finished concrete floors can be unreceptive to a new coating. You will need to acquire appropriate equipment for sanding the floor to ensure roughness in preparation for epoxy application.
Clean the Flooring
It is essential to clean the garage flooring before applying the epoxy resin. If the surface is covered in debris and general dirt, there will be a high risk of premature delamination. Also, the quality of the coating will be poor because of the particles in the resin. If possible, you should acquire a power washer for the cleaning task. The equipment will provide water under pressure which will eliminate dirt fast and efficiently. If there are oil stains on the flooring, you might need to use soap and a brush. Once the floor is clean, you will need to allow enough time for drying to avoid trapping a lot of moisture in the floor substrate.
Finally, you should evaluate the temperature of the garage before beginning the epoxy application process. Avoid painting in extreme conditions because the resin will not bond and cure correctly in very cold or hot environments.