Using epoxy floor coatings is an excellent option for commercial floors. This versatile material can add color and shine to floors. It also helps prevent slips and falls. This coating is ideal for clinics, locker rooms, commercial kitchens, and showrooms. Depending on the desired appearance, it can be applied to both interior and exterior surfaces.
Durability
Epoxy floor coatings are easy to install and can last up to ten years. However, there are a few considerations when choosing an epoxy floor coating. First, the surface must be properly prepared by removing loose cement or other debris. Next, it should be treated to open pores for the epoxy coating to bond properly.
A quality epoxy floor coating is extremely durable and can withstand a variety of chemicals. This makes it a good choice for many types of buildings, including restaurants, offices, and commercial spaces. It is also easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. It can be applied to new or old concrete structures. Aside from this, an epoxy floor coating can match the decor of almost any home.
Cost
Epoxy flooring is an attractive choice for commercial or residential use. It is heat and slip-resistant, easy to clean and relatively inexpensive. You can choose colors or even a metallic sheen or decorative flake to further customize the look of your floor. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for heavy traffic areas.
Cost of epoxy flooring varies by area and type. A 400-square-foot project can cost anywhere from $3,200 to $3,400. Larger projects (over 900 square feet) are eligible for discounts. Some contractors offer free estimates.
Drawbacks
One of the drawbacks of epoxy floor coatings is that they can become very slippery, particularly when wet. This can pose a safety issue for children and the elderly. Luckily, there are mitigating measures available that can minimize the risk of slips and falls. However, these add-ons will incur additional costs.
Another drawback is that it is difficult to change the design of an epoxy floor. Changing the colors or pattern is very time-consuming and expensive. Changing the design requires extensive removal, a labor-intensive process, and specialized equipment.
Application
Before applying epoxy floor coatings, the concrete surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned and prepped. You should also test the concrete surface for previous layers of sealant and epoxy to determine if it is suitable for epoxy coatings. To do this, add a small amount of water to the concrete and let it soak in. If the water beads up, the concrete is not suitable for epoxy coating.
When applying epoxy floor coatings, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Each type of epoxy product will have a different curing time. When mixing the material, it is important to mix it one bucket at a time. This is because most epoxy products have a pot life of approximately 40 minutes.
Epoxy Floor Coatings 