Lately, homeowners have been turning to epoxy polymers to protect their concrete floors. This paint has been widely used in commercial applications for years. Because of its durability and stylish look it has made the jump to residential homes. The application process can be labor intensive and time-consuming. However, a homeowner with 3 to 4 free days can follow these steps and the resulting epoxy floors will resist stains and last for years.
This type of paint is a polymer based material that is a liquid. It typically comes with two separate ingredients; the paint and hardener agent. Once mixed, a chemical reaction begins that creates adhesive properties and solidifies the material into a durable plastic coating. The material is easily spread across the concrete and bonds solidly to it, providing years of stain, scuff and spill protection.
The concrete that will be covered must meet a few requirements. First, if the area has been previously treated with a sealant, then the individual should not proceed. By spraying water on the concrete and checking for beading, one can accurately determine whether the ground has a sealant over it. Another problem is moisture seepage. Tape a plastic bag to the area for 24 hours. Lift the bag after a day and check for wetness. If there is any, then the concrete will not hold the covering properly.
Cleaning the ground and preparing it for the paint is probably the hardest part of the job. Using a power scrubber can significantly reduce the time and effort needed to finish the project. To start, use a square shovel to remove any large, stuck-on debris. Sweep the room several times to ensure all the dirt and dust has been removed. Following the label instructions, mix a degreasing solution with water and cover the ground with it. Make several circuits around the room with the power scrubber while keeping the area covered with the cleaning solution. Any areas that the machine cannot reach should be caught with a hand-brush. Once the ground has been cleaned, use a wet vacuum to remove the excess solution and get rid of it.
Now that the area is clean it must be etched with muriatic acid so that the epoxy will stick to the concrete. A 10:1 ratio of water to acid should be used. With a new or cleaned pad, start the scrubber machine in the back of the room and work it forward and around several times. Once finished, the ground should be etched finely and feel like 60 grit sand paper.
After the floor has had enough time to dry, the individual should prepare to patch any cracks or uneven spots. Use an epoxy-based filler and a putty knife to do the work. Be sure to make all holes flush with the existing concrete.
Applying the paint should be done in 2 coats to achieve the best effect. Be sure to wear a respirator and to leave any doors open while completing the project. After the first coat has been applied, any anti-slip particles should be mixed in with the second application. Always follow product directions for painting specifications, mixture amounts and drying time.
epoxy floors provide a long-lasting and attractive finish for any concrete area. Cleaning the ground and applying the paint can be time consuming. But the results are usually worth the time spent on the project.
This type of paint is a polymer based material that is a liquid. It typically comes with two separate ingredients; the paint and hardener agent. Once mixed, a chemical reaction begins that creates adhesive properties and solidifies the material into a durable plastic coating. The material is easily spread across the concrete and bonds solidly to it, providing years of stain, scuff and spill protection.
The concrete that will be covered must meet a few requirements. First, if the area has been previously treated with a sealant, then the individual should not proceed. By spraying water on the concrete and checking for beading, one can accurately determine whether the ground has a sealant over it. Another problem is moisture seepage. Tape a plastic bag to the area for 24 hours. Lift the bag after a day and check for wetness. If there is any, then the concrete will not hold the covering properly.
Cleaning the ground and preparing it for the paint is probably the hardest part of the job. Using a power scrubber can significantly reduce the time and effort needed to finish the project. To start, use a square shovel to remove any large, stuck-on debris. Sweep the room several times to ensure all the dirt and dust has been removed. Following the label instructions, mix a degreasing solution with water and cover the ground with it. Make several circuits around the room with the power scrubber while keeping the area covered with the cleaning solution. Any areas that the machine cannot reach should be caught with a hand-brush. Once the ground has been cleaned, use a wet vacuum to remove the excess solution and get rid of it.
Now that the area is clean it must be etched with muriatic acid so that the epoxy will stick to the concrete. A 10:1 ratio of water to acid should be used. With a new or cleaned pad, start the scrubber machine in the back of the room and work it forward and around several times. Once finished, the ground should be etched finely and feel like 60 grit sand paper.
After the floor has had enough time to dry, the individual should prepare to patch any cracks or uneven spots. Use an epoxy-based filler and a putty knife to do the work. Be sure to make all holes flush with the existing concrete.
Applying the paint should be done in 2 coats to achieve the best effect. Be sure to wear a respirator and to leave any doors open while completing the project. After the first coat has been applied, any anti-slip particles should be mixed in with the second application. Always follow product directions for painting specifications, mixture amounts and drying time.
epoxy floors provide a long-lasting and attractive finish for any concrete area. Cleaning the ground and applying the paint can be time consuming. But the results are usually worth the time spent on the project.
About the Author:
Specialists in epoxy floors Toronto and concrete polishing can restore your old, worn and discoloured concrete floors into beautiful and durable polished concrete