Epoxy is an attractive, durable and hygienic flooring option that is easy to maintain – as long as it’s installed correctly. We cannot say it enough, epoxy is not for beginners! DIY enthusiasts can really mess it up if they don’t know the ins and outs. In this article, our team of epoxy floor installers will go over the top ways that an epoxy flooring application fails and how to best avoid it from happening to you.
- Proper Surface Preparation
Arguably, the most important factor in achieving a successful epoxy floor application is proper concrete surface preparation. Before applying epoxy, it’s essential to ensure that the surface is clean, dry and free of any contaminants. This means thoroughly removing any grease, oil, dirt or debris from the surface. However, concrete preparation is more than a good, deep cleaning. The concrete floor must all be free of any structural imperfections like pits, cracks and any areas that are unlevel – which will require much more than a mop to fix.
Failure to do all of the above will result in poor product adhesion, leading to an epoxy floor that just won’t last.
- Temperature and Humidity Control
Temperature and humidity can have a significant impact on the performance of epoxy flooring. High humidity can lead to moisture being trapped beneath the epoxy, resulting in bubbles. High temperatures can also cause the epoxy to cure too quickly, which can result in a weak or brittle floor that can crack easily under pressure. To avoid these issues, it’s important to try to schedule your epoxy floor application in ideal weather conditions. For reference, the temperature should be between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity levels should be below 85%.
- Use High-Quality Epoxy Products
Not all epoxy products are created equal, and using a low-quality product can cause major issues in the application process. When choosing an epoxy product, look for one that is formulated for your particular application, whether it be a garage floor, warehouse floor or another type of surface. It’s also critical to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when mixing and applying the epoxy. A lot of DIY enthusiasts end up underestimating the amount of product to mix and how quickly it dries, leading to a messy and uneven application.
- Proper Mixing Techniques
As we briefly touched on above, proper mixing of the epoxy is a key component to achieving a successful application. If the epoxy is not mixed thoroughly, it can result in uneven curing and other noticeable defects in the floor. To ensure proper mixing, follow the manufacturer’s instructions word for word and use the appropriate mixing tools, such as a drill with a mixing attachment.
When mixing the epoxy, be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container to ensure that all of the resin and hardener are mixed evenly. It’s important to find the right balance because mixing too much epoxy at once can lead to overheating and a shortened pot life.
- Proper Application Techniques
Not only is it essential to have the right amount of product mixed in the pot, it’s essential to apply the epoxy evenly and at the correct thickness. When applying the epoxy, start by cutting in around the edges of the room with a brush or roller. Then, use a squeegee or roller to apply the epoxy in a smooth, even coat. Be sure to work in small sections to avoid the epoxy drying too quickly.
Professionally Installed Epoxy Floors for your NJ Home
The number one way to avoid a bad epoxy floor application? Hire a professional to do the job right the first time. Diamond Garage Solutions professionally installs epoxy floors for homes and businesses all across New Jersey. We use only the highest quality epoxy products and application tools to offer protection from stains, cracks, pits and more. Our equipment coupled with our experienced team of contractors can ensure a smooth, seamless and epoxy floor that is custom to your design tastes. When you choose DGS, you’re also choosing a life of structure warranty – which means an epoxy floor application that stands the test of time.
To learn more about our residential epoxy floor installations in NJ, please visit our website at: https://diamondgaragesolutions.com/