You can have the best coatings material available but without correct floor prep and application it will fail. Epoxy manufacturers are aware of this and provide detailed instructions for a successful application.
Taking the time to thoroughly prepare and follow the manufacturer’s instructions will ensure stunning results. Rushing the process, however, can lead to everything from surface blushing to trapped air bubbles.
1. Not Preparing the Substrate Properly
Like the foundation of a house, the proper substrate prep is the cornerstone of your epoxy floor. No matter how high-end the materials you use, or how experienced your professional, a faulty substrate will undermine your floors’ performance.
Proper maintenance practices are also critical. This includes timely responses to chemical and oil spills, which should be soaked up immediately using oil-specific absorbents to prevent slicking and corrosion. After that, the area should be sprayed with an eco-friendly degreaser, allowed to penetrate as directed, and then thoroughly rinsed to remove slick residues.
If you notice stains, be sure to use mild cleaners that are compatible with epoxy coatings. Avoid soap-based products that can leave a filmy buildup that dulls the epoxy’s shine, and be especially mindful of cleaning tools, which should be wiped clean to avoid scratching the surface. Lastly, be sure to keep movable equipment on casters or cushions to minimize the risk of scratches and other damage.
2. Not Mixing the Epoxy Properly
When applying epoxy, it’s important to mix the resin and hardener thoroughly. This helps to achieve a uniform mixture and prevents air bubbles. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s mixing instructions carefully. This can help ensure that the epoxy is mixed correctly and that it has a long pot life.
Some epoxies require the mixture to sit for a certain amount of time before application. This is called induction time, and failure to do this can result in a sticky or uneven finish.
Another common mistake is rushing the application of the epoxy. This can lead to a number of problems, including uneven coverage and trapped air bubbles. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to work slowly and take your time. In addition, it’s important to apply thin coats rather than one thick coating. This will help to avoid any unsightly bubbles or streaking. Also, be sure to wear a respirator to protect yourself from any harmful fumes.
3. Not Performing a Moisture Test
Performing a moisture test is one of the most important steps in preparing for an epoxy floor coating. Moisture testing helps prevent problems such as bubbles, level inconsistencies and trapped air that can result from applying epoxy to an uncured resin.
Concrete that has high levels of moisture will have a hard time bonding to epoxy. This can lead to peeling epoxy floors. Fortunately, there are many ways to test moisture levels in concrete including probes that go into the foundation and surface meters that detect moisture on the surface of the concrete.
The best way to avoid issues such as these is to read and follow all the preparation and application instructions that come with your epoxy product. This will help ensure your project is a success!
4. Not Using the Right Epoxy
It’s important to choose the right epoxy for your floor, based on the level of use and your aesthetic goals. High-use floors need a thicker coating that can withstand heavy foot traffic and forklifts. Medium-use floors can be coated with a thinner resin.
It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s application and curing instructions. Failing to do so can lead to problems such as uneven thickness, bubbles and discoloration.
Direct sunlight can also be problematic, as it can cause the epoxy to cure too quickly, leading to unevenness and inconsistencies in the final product.
As detailed on www.ascentepoxypalmbeach.com, in order to avoid these mistakes, it’s best to work with a professional who has extensive experience in applying epoxy flooring. A reputable contractor will take great care to ensure that the surface is clean and the pores are open before beginning the process. They may even use a grinder to rough up the concrete, but they will know the right balance between making the surface too porous and creating a profile that epoxy can lock into.
5. Not Using the Right Tools
When applying epoxy flooring, having the right tools can make or break the project. The right tools will help to ensure a smooth, even coating and eliminate issues such as bubbles or roller imprints.
Having the right tools will also help to minimize floor degradation over time. For example, a notched spreader helps to distribute the epoxy evenly and reduce ridges or lumps. Likewise, edge brushes are essential for touching up corners and hard-to-reach areas.
Finally, having the right tools can help to speed up the application process and improve the finished appearance of the floor. This is especially important when working with larger applications.
A poorly installed floor can lead to expensive downtime for your company, resulting in lost revenue and customers. Fortunately, these problems are preventable with the right preparation and careful application. By following these simple tips, you can avoid costly mistakes and achieve a professional-looking epoxy floor that will last for years to come.
6. Not Using the Right Equipment
A poorly installed epoxy floor that is not properly maintained will degrade quickly, which makes it more costly in the long run. The key to preventing this is by using the right equipment for routine cleaning and maintenance.
This includes avoiding use of harsh or abrasive cleansers. A light detergent diluted with warm water is typically recommended for daily cleaning. It is also important to make sure the floor is adequately ventilated to prevent odours and potentially dangerous fumes.
It is vital to follow the instructions for the epoxy you use, as they will contain a great deal of valuable information that can help you avoid common mistakes. Every epoxy manufacturer wants you to be successful, because their reputation and profitability depend on it! So, don’t be afraid to ask questions and read the directions thoroughly. This will help you avoid the most common epoxy flooring mistakes and enjoy gorgeous floors for years to come.