WHAT ARE EPOXY FLOOR COATINGS

Source:www.stonediamondtool.com Date:2019/9/18 Read:300

Epoxy is a type of polymer material that begins as a liquid and is converted to a solid state through a controlled chemical reaction. Because of this change in state, epoxy floor coatings are typically a mechanically strong and chemically resistant type of flooring. Epoxy floor coatings are highly adhesive during the conversion from liquid to solid allowing them to create a secure bond with both new and old concrete flooring surfaces.

There are a wide variety of applications and uses for epoxy coatings including epoxy floor paint in commercial and industrial settings as well as for coatings on industrial equipment or machinery. Epoxy floor coatings can also be used as vapor barriers over concrete slabs and foundations in new construction.

How Epoxy Floor Coatings Work

Epoxy floor coatings are typically comprised of two main components, resins and hardeners. The resin component in an epoxy floor coating is light or clear in color and nearly odor free. Hardeners on the other hand, are dark and have a strong characteristic “ammonia-like” smell. When these two components are mixed together during the epoxy floor coating application process, a chemical reaction begins. This chemical reaction turns the epoxy floor coatings into tough, rigid, and plastic-like materials, which are very durable, waterproof, and chemically resistant.

In general, epoxy floor coatings are available in both one coat and two coat varieties. One-coat application systems allow for faster installation times, while two-coat systems result in a more secure application. Two-coat epoxy floor coatings help to eliminate the risk of developing pinholes or voids during application, which can cause future problems in the durability and waterproofing of the coating.

The epoxy floor coating process is typically done by applying the coatings using a roller. This application is best when performed by experienced floor coating professional to ensure proper application and durability.