What is a Self-Leveling Epoxy Floor?

A high-flow epoxy that doesn’t shrink and has exceptional bonding properties, this type of floor covering is easy to use and hardens quickly. Desired thickness can be created in just one application of the epoxy coat. It comes in a variety of finishes and is comprised primarily of epoxy resin and can also include additives such as quartz, silica, or ceramic. It comes in a wide selection of colors and is used in industrial and public facilities. This type of floor covering creates a clean and anti microbial surface that is ultra smooth and very easy to keep clean. It can also be used under carpets, tiling, or other flooring that needs to have a smooth substrate below.

Where is a Self-Leveling Epoxy Floor Used?

Not as decorative as some of the more textured epoxy floors, a self-leveling floor is used mostly in larger spaces where sanitary conditions are essential. Activity centers, animal kennels, cafeterias, locker rooms, showers, and laundries all commonly incorporate self-leveling epoxy floors. Large areas that need to be cleaned often also benefit from this type of smooth and non-porous floor covering. Food processing plants, service garages, chemical processing facilities, and waste water treatment facilities also rely on this seamless and durable epoxy flooring.

How is a Self-Leveling Epoxy Floor Applied?

If applied to a concrete substrate, which is the most common, the base first needs to be cleaned through water blasting, acid etching, sandblasting, or another thorough cleaning methods to remove dirt, existing coatings, grease, oil, and any other substances that may interfere with the bond. Then, the concrete can be primed. The purpose of the primer is prevent the formation of air bubbles and pin holes after the covering has been applied. It can be applied either with a roller or a brush and must completely dry before the epoxy can be put on top. After the self-leveling epoxy resin is mixed with water, it can be applied to the primed substrate. It can be spread with a trowel or squeegee and then you can let it self-level on its own. The application should be completed all in one session for best results and the desired thickness can be achieved in this one step application.

Special Features of a Self-Leveling Epoxy Floor

This epoxy floor features an easy to apply resin that cures quickly. It forms an excellent bond and is easy to maintain and clean. Because it is one component, it won’t freeze and, while warmer temperatures are ideal for application, it can be installed at temperatures lower than most coverings require. Some manufacturers will blend the standard colors to create unique hues so even the most utilitarian spaces can still have a flair. It is a non-porous floor covering that will hold up well under moderate traffic. Adding a top coat is an option with a self-leveling epoxy floor but is not necessary. It will keep the floor looking newer longer and will make it even more slip-resistant and strong.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

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Self-Leveling Epoxy Floor

What is a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor With Quartz Sand?

Self-dispersing coatings with quartz sand are known for having an exceptional anti-slip quality. They are a great non-porous epoxy floor for use in settings where liquid spills are frequent. They come in gloss or matte finishes and are most often used on commercial floors. There are many color choices for the quartz sand element and, when combined with the epoxy, a decorative and durable floor covering is created. A multi-step system, the self-dispersing epoxy floor with quartz sand involves a waterproof membrane, top coat, base coat, quartz aggregate, and grout coat that can be applied to the wood or concrete substrate.

Where is a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor With Quartz Sand Used?

Used in commercial kitchens, food preparation areas, and restaurants, this type of epoxy flooring assures that spills do not soak into the floor and employees and guests do not slip when inevitable spills happen. When it rains, there is no need to worry about customers slipping on a wet floor. It is also a very decorative option so it is an ideal choice for retailers who want to create a safe but appealing atmosphere. A variety of color choices and the added texture from the quartz sand makes this floor covering a preferred choice for areas with high visibility.

How is a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor With Quartz Sand Applied?

Prior to application the substrate needs to be mechanically prepared. In addition, since this coating is usually used in areas where liquids are spilled, the drains need to be installed even with the substrate and covered before application starts.

First, the waterproof membrane is applied to the whole surface area. Then, the epoxy resin can be applied with a trowel. After that, the quartz sand can be broadcasted to rejection and then the floor can rest for twelve hours. Once it has dried, the loose quartz sand can be dusted off. The grout coat can then be applied with a squeegee. Finally, the urethane topcoat can be applied, also using a squeegee, and perfected with rollers.

Special Features of a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor With Quartz Sand

This type of floor covering is resilient yet decorative. Because it is seamless, there is no need to worry about liquid, food, or chemical spills. The multi-colored quartz sand allows for unlimited design possibilities and borders and patterns can be created easily. It works in both indoor and outdoor conditions and will not fade. You can choose the finish that will work best in your space and, regardless of your selection, you will get a stain resistant surface that is also easy to clean. It binds perfectly to both wood and cement substrates. Not only does the quartz sand add a decorative touch, it also helps to create a non-slippery surface that is even more resistant to wear than epoxy alone. The membrane that is applied just over the substrate creates a barrier that assures that liquid spills will not penetrate down to the base and cause damage to the substrate below.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

Post from: Epoxy Floors

Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand

What is a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor?

A strong epoxy floor, this kind of covering is generally used in locations where heavy work equipment such as trucks and forklifts are run. It will make a surface less slippery and resistant to damage. It is ideal for floors in a construction or warehouse settings that would otherwise be compromised without adequate protection. This type of epoxy is created by reacting a polyepoxide with a polyoxyalkylene polyol. The resulting compound is then reacted with a polyepoxide and a polyhydric alcohol. The final result of this process is a self-dispersing epoxy resin.

Where is a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor Used?

Because of its strength and durability, this type of epoxy floor is used for practical purposes rather than decorative. Food manufacturing plants, warehouses, and construction sites, are all places where this heavy-duty type of floor covering is most beneficial.

How is a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor Applied?

While it is most often applied to concrete, it can also adhere to metal or wooden substrates. Rolling on the self-dispersing epoxy is the final and easiest part of the whole process. Preparing the substrate is the most detailed part.

If the epoxy will be applied to a concrete substrate, you must make sure that a vapor barrier is created and joints must be properly prepared to prevent cracking. Any curing compounds must be removed mechanically and the concrete must be thoroughly cleaned before starting the application process. The floor will need to be made level and all cracks must be repaired as well. It is suggested that concrete floors undergo acid etching prior to the application of the epoxy rather than being mechanically prepared. This involved diluting muriatic acid with water and sprinkling it over the entire surface. It then needs to be scrubbed with a bristled broom and, once the whole surface is bubbling, rinsed. If you are applying the covering to old concrete, the base needs to be tested to insure that it is sound and then totally stripped down before the cleaning process begins. New concrete must be totally dry before applying the epoxy resin.

This type of covering can only be applied to EXTERIOR grade plywood. To prepare, the floor needs to be cleaned and fasted to the floor joists or laid directly on the joist. The plywood must be cleaned of all waxes, varnishes, etc., and secured with glue and screws. To insure proper adhesion, the wood will need to be sanded first. Lastly, a primer will need to be applied, then the epoxy.

Metal substrates deemed structurally sound must be cleaned and all rust must be removed. The, the surface will need to be treated with phosphoric acid. Lastly the primer and then epoxy can be applied.

Special Features of a Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor

This type of epoxy floor covering is formulated to withstand a beating in the roughest of environments. It provides a non-skid and sealed surface while protecting the base from damage that can be caused by crates falling from forklifts, wheels of heavy equipment, etc. While it is not he most attractive of the epoxy floors, it is the most functional in industrial settings.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

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Self-Dispersing Epoxy Floor

What is an Epoxy Antistatic Floor?

This variety of epoxy flooring was created to prevent the production of static electricity and exposure of nearby objects to static electricity. Epoxy antistatic floor covering is used mostly in settings where static electricity can cause damage to equipment, products, or people. While it is selected mainly for safety purposes, it does have a sleek appearance and comes in flat, semi gloss and high gloss making it an attractive alternative to concrete. It has a life of about eight years and requires very little upkeep. This formula is comprised of an epoxy floor coating with conductive ingredients added.

Where is an Epoxy Antistatic Floor Used?

Computer equipment, electronics, and more can be permanently damaged by static electricity. Locations where these components are manufactured, stored, sold, and used often require a floor made out of antistatic epoxy to prevent this kind of damage. It is often used in electric factories, control rooms, company computer rooms, printing factories, spinning and weaving factories, electronics factories, telecommunications offices, semiconductor plants, warehouses, and retail stores where technical equipment is sold.

How is an Epoxy Antistatic Floor Applied?

If the floor covering will be applied on new concrete, the base will need to dry for thirty days before the epoxy can be applied. The temperature must be 60 F or above for best results. If the room is colder, the epoxy will not fully cure. The substrate must be free of salts, curing compounds, oil, and grease and cracks should be filled prior to application.

First, use an etching solution and then rinse the surface completely with water. Then, depending on the brand of antistatic epoxy that you use, follow the mixing instructions and be aware of the length of time that the mixture can be left standing. Only prepare the amount that you can apply within that time to cut down on wasted materials. It can be applied in thin coats using a roller. The first coat will need to dry for seven hours and then the second coat can be applied in the same manner. While you can walk on the surface after twelve hours, it will not be completely cured for five to seven days.

Special Features of an Epoxy Antistatic Floor

This sleek surface is dust proof and very easy to clean. The antistatic qualities are long lasting. An epoxy antistatic floor has good adhesion and is resistant to abrasion. The electric conductivity is even though out this type of floor making it a highly effective way to protect the whole surface area from static electricity. Also, its ability to conduct electricity is not influenced by humidity factors. It is an acceptable way for companies to not only protect their products and staff, but also meet control standards for electrical conductivity. It is resilient and holds up well under all forms of traffic and even heavy loads. Even though it looks shiny, an epoxy antistatic floor is very slip resistant. It is easy to apply and maintain. Because of its long life-span, an epoxy antistatic floor is seen as a worthwhile investment for businesses, factories, and warehouses that need to protect their equipment, merchandise, and employees from static electricity.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

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Epoxy Anti-Static Floor

What is a Mortar Epoxy Floor?

This type of floor covering is comprised of cured epoxy resin as well as aggregates and has exceptional handling properties. The components of this system include an epoxy primer, mortar, grout coat, and a urethane topcoat. This type of flooring involves meticulous preparation before application. A mortar epoxy floor is ideal in extreme situations when it is most critical to protect a floor with an industrial strength covering. Different formulations make this covering durable in many climate conditions including cold, dry, wet, and more.

Where is a Mortar Epoxy Floor Used?

This kind of flooring is often used in aircraft maintenance buildings, hangars, and jet engine testing facilities where impact damage, abrasion, and fuel spills are likely. A strong top coat can provide protection for up to ten years even under the harshest elements. Mortar epoxy floors can also be found in public restrooms where sanitary conditions are necessary and cleaning with harsh chemicals is frequent. There are varieties of mortar epoxy floors that cure well in cold temperatures. They are used in commercial coolers, freezers, and other food preparation areas. While other formulations work best in dry environments, some can actually cure effectively underwater making them ideal for swimming pools.

How is a Mortar Epoxy Floor Applied?

Preparation is essential before applying this long lasting type of epoxy floor. First, a patch test should be done to make sure that the substance adheres to the concrete. Then, old joint sealant should be removed and cracks in the substrate should be filled. Next, a deep cleaning and shot blasting should be done to remove grease. If the vertical wall is going to be included in the process that will need to be prepared as well, otherwise it should be masked off. Finally any previous coatings need to be removed through sanding and scraping. To test the base, drop water onto the floor and if it beads up rather than soaking through, additional cleaning and preparation is required before the epoxy mortar floor can be applied.

Once the floor is fully prepared, the epoxy primer can be applied with a squeegee and the mortar can then be directly applied to the primer and perfected with the assistance of a trowel. Excess can be sanded away. Then, the grout coat can be applied as a sealer. Once it has become somewhat dry, it can be sanded and washed. Lastly, the two urethane topcoats can be applied with a roller.

Special Features of a Mortar Epoxy Floor

This kind of epoxy floor is odorless which is good since it is often used in large enclosed spaces. It maintains its color and clarity very well. An effective top coat can make it very slip resistant. The fact that is withstands impact, abrasion, and chemical spills makes it ideal for industrial settings. It also handles high amounts of moisture without showing damage and will not grow mildew. Because it can be revived with just a new top coat, this type of floor is often well worth the initial effort for large facilities that experience extreme conditions. An easy to clean solution, epoxy mortar floors will protect the concrete below for years to come and offer a sleek look perfect for industrial and commercial surfaces.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

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Mortar Epoxy Floor

What is a Graveled Epoxy Floor?

This flooring system is comprised of resin and small pieces of gravel. The most decorative and also the most complex of the epoxy floors, gravel epoxy flooring is often used on surfaces where a logo, mascot, words, or other more detailed designs are required. In addition to being decorative, it is also a hard wearing type of floor covering ideal for outdoor surfaces and gyms. This kind of epoxy floor can come in many colors and can either blend in to its surroundings or contrast to stand out and get noticed.

Where is a Graveled Epoxy Floor Used?

Strong enough to withstand traffic, graveled epoxy flooring is often used on sidewalks and on streets. Schools can easily delineate bus lanes and pedestrian walkways, and parking spaces can be clearly marked. Sidewalks can be made to look more appealing with the added dimension that gravel brings. Steps can be made skid-resistant with this rough-textured type of epoxy flooring. Schools can include their mascot, even on a heavily used gym floor, and retailers can bring attention to their name and logo with a colorful gravel design that will pop off the floor and catch customer’s eyes.

How is a Graveled Epoxy Floor Applied?

This type of epoxy floor is challenging for the novice to apply. It can be applied “resin bound” meaning “hand trowelled” or “resin bonded” meaning “scatter coated“. Regardless, the substrate can be an existing pavement and can be any monolithic material such as bitmac or concrete, as well as a new base.

Before you start application, make sure that the surface is clean and does not have any cracks or debris on it. If you are using the “scatter coating” method, first apply the resin and smooth it out and then scatter the gravel on top while the resin is still tacky. If you are using the “hand trowelling” method, the gravel and resin must fist be combined in a mixer and then you can spread it over the area using a trowel. This is the most preferred way to apply a graveled epoxy floor because you can achieve the desired thickness as you go.

No matter which method you choose, the trick is scattering the gravel or applying the mixture before the resin dries and hardens. If that happens, the gravel will not stick to the resin or be malleable enough to spread by hand. Generally, you will have about an hour to get the job done. As a result, the application of this style of flooring is best left to a professional team to avoid frustration and wasted materials.

Special Features of a Graveled Epoxy Floor

Popular not only for its aesthetic appeal, graveled epoxy floors have many other advantages. After it has set, there will be no loose stones and weeds will not be able to penetrate this extremely durable surface. It is a very slip-resistant kind of floor covering and can withstand vehicular traffic. It and can be used throughout a large complex, both inside and outside, to create flow and continuity while adding an ornate look that can not be achieved with concrete. Aside from being available in multiple colors, the gravel can also be mixed to create a look that is unique and captivating.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

Post from: Epoxy Floors

Graveled Epoxy Floor

What is an Epoxy Flaked Floor?

For those looking for more than just a heavy-duty covering for their floor, flakes are an easy way to add texture and a creative touch to any high-traffic space. Interior designers love incorporating a flaked floor because of the many color combinations and patterns that can be fashioned with this type of floor coating system. A flaked floor is made up of a base resin, color chips (or flakes), and a top coat that can be applied to create any thickness. desired The top coat is transparent so the flaked floor below will shine through.

Where is an Epoxy Flaked Floor Used?

Because of their superior durability and visual appeal, epoxy flaked floors are most often used in public areas to create a versatile and attractive surface. Auto service bays must be functional but it also doesn’t hurt to have them look pleasing to high-end clientele so they are an ideal place for flaked flooring. Cafeterias and food service areas that incorporate a decorative flaked floor can be cleaned easily and also look pleasing to diners. Homeowners who want to make their garage look as finished as possible often choose flaked flooring. Retail spaces and showrooms understand that importance of curb-side appeal and how an attractive flaked floor in colors that complement their merchandise can help to attract customers. Schools are also heavy traffic areas and benefit greatly from this eye-catching type of flooring system.

How is an Epoxy Flaked Floor Applied?

First, the substrate must be prepared and deemed suitable for this type of flooring process. It must be free from dust, grease, and other foreign matter. Then, a layer of resin is applied to the floor. After that, the flakes can be applied and there is no need to worry about the excess because they can always be swept away when the floor dries. Lastly, the transparent top coat can be applied, usually in one or two layers depending on the desired thickness. After application, the floor can be walked on after 24 hours, driven on after 48 hours, and will be completely cured after seven days.

Special Features of an Epoxy Flaked Floor

This type of flooring is very versatile and can be designed to fit customer’s individual taste. It is easy to apply making it an excellent choice for homeowners who like to take on do-it-yourself projects. Even if the substrate is uneven or has pitting, a flaked floor works well. The resin can fill some of the cracks and the flakes do a good job at masking imperfections. The chips can be spread out randomly and still create an attractive floor so accuracy and precision are not required to apply this type of floor coating. This type of floor causes little odor even when new.

The base for this type of floor creates a strong seal making cleaning and disinfecting a cinch. It can withstand a heavy-duty cleaning with a high pressure sprayer. It also keeps out dirt and bacteria making it a great anti-microbial floor coating. The texturing created by the flakes adds to the slip resistant quality of this epoxy floor. Even if the top coat wears down, it is easy to reapply to recreate the original non-skin surface.

One of the most durable decorative floors, epoxy flaked floors are ranked at the top of their category. They are even superior when it comes to resisting abrasion. Because of the many color combinations, the design choices are endless. There is no need to worry about having to replace the floor because it will not fade even under the harshest ultraviolet light exposure.

Want to see what else is available? Check out all of the types of epoxy floors:

Epoxy Flaked Floor
Epoxy Anti-Static Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor
Self-dispersing Epoxy Floor with Quartz Sand
Self-leveling Epoxy Floor
Mortar Epoxy Floor
Graveled Epoxy Floor
Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

Post from: Epoxy Floors

Epoxy Flaked Floor

It Starts With Research

Before you embark on any project you need to do some research. The good news is that you already know that, because clearly you found this site searching for information about epoxy floors! But I have to say, there isn’t as much information out there as you would like. When I first researched epoxy flooring options I was surprised that I couldn’t find any books devoted solely to that topic – and it is still the case today.

However, this really should be a sign to you that installing such flooring (really it’s a coating I guess, not a flooring per se) isn’t that hard! All of the books I will recommend like Black & Decker Complete Guide to Garages and Flooring: The Essential Source Book for Planning, Selecting And Restoring Floors include some basic information but no detailed how-to instructions. The B&D book probably includes the best examples, however the internet is your friend and that’s why we have put together this website – to give you the information the books do not.

Preparation is Key

One of the most important things to realize about the process of getting a gorgeous new garage floor is that the majority of the work is not painting the floor, it is in the preparation of the floor. This isn’t as important for an interior floor like a workshop but for a garage floor, which typically is one of the most abused surfaces in your home, solid preparation is a must.

We will explore the process of garage floor preparation in another post, but for now here is a simple list of what you must do in preparing a garage floor to be sealed and coated with an epoxy resin:

1. Scrub the floor clean by buying or renting a Commercial Floor Scrubber.
2. Clean off the oil and grease with a degreaser.
3. Etch the floor with something like Rust-Oleum 238475 EPOXYShield Concrete Etch.

This combination of steps will ensure proper adhesion of the epoxy floor resin. As the say in any sort of painting, it’s all in the preparation!

Time to Paint the Floor

When it comes time to actually paint the floor the do-it-yourself has a number of solid options, none of which are as “good” as commercial grade products, but all of which can totally get the job done, particularly if you have done the proper preparation of the floor.

The two key vendors in this space are Rust-Oleum and Valspar Quickrete. I have personally used the Rust-Oleum products and have had very good luck with them but I also have heard good things about the Quickrete products, so I don’t think you can go wrong with either.

No matter which vendor you go with there are two primary kinds of paint you will need:

• Colored bottom coat. Rust-Oleum makes two different levels of product – “Standard” and “Professional”. Don’t scrimp! You will be a little more but go for the professional line such as the Rust-Oleum 203373 Professional Floor Coating Kit in Silver Gray.
• Clear coat. After painting the floor and appying the paint chips to give a little traction you will want to apply a good top coat such as Rustoleum Premium Clear Coating. This will give the final seal and make the floor look brilliant!

As I mentioned, I like the Rust-Oleum brand myself but it may be worth looking into Quickrete as well.

Enjoy Your New Floor

Is there anything better than a freshly painted garage floor? I think not! Of course the beauty of the floor will be diminished a little bit once you start putting all of your gear back into the garage, but that’s what garages are for, aren’t they? In the end whether you can see all of the floor or not you will be very happy that you took the time to properly paint your floor, and your wallet will be glad that you did it yourself.

Good luck with applying your new epoxy floor solution!

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Epoxy Floor Do It Yourself Products & Books

Most visitors to Epoxy Floors have no interest in and do not care about the technology of the product they are interested in buying. They simply want to find the best epoxy product to seal and protect their garage floor, workshop floor or wherever they may happen to want to apply this fantastic flooring solution.

But if you are interesting in reading more about the science of expoxy please read on because it really is quite a remarkable product with applications that go far beyond simple epoxy flooring for garages.

Technical Description of Epoxy

In chemistry terms, epoxy is a thermosetting epoxide polymer that cures (polymerizes and crosslinks) when mixed with a catalyzing agent or hardener. If you have used Bondo to fix dents in an automobile then you have used an epoxy resin. Remember the hardener you needed to add? Most common epoxy resins are produced from a reaction between epichlorohydrin and bisphenol-A. When epoxies are mixed with the appropriate catalyst, the resulting reaction is exothermic, and the oxygen on the epoxy monomers is “flipped.” This occurs throughout the epoxy, and a matrix with a high stress tolerance is formed, and “glues” the materials together.

History of Epoxy

The first commercial attempts to prepare resins from epichlorohydrin were made in 1927 in the United States. Credit for the first synthesis of bisphenol-A-based epoxy resins is shared by Dr. Pierre Castan of Switzerland and Dr. S.O. Greenlee of the United States in 1936. Dr. Castan’s work was licensed by Ciba, Ltd. of Switzerland, which went on to become one of the three major epoxy resin producers worldwide. Ciba’s epoxy business was spun off and later sold in the late 1990s and is now the advanced materials business unit of Huntsman Corporation of the United States. Dr. Greenlee’s work was for the firm of Devoe-Reynolds of the United States. Devoe-Reynolds, which was active in the early days of the epoxy resin industry, was sold to Shell Chemical (now Hexion, formerly Resolution Polymers and others).

Applications of Epoxy

Epoxy resins are used in a wide variety of applications, including:

Paints and coatings – 2 part waterborne epoxy coatings are used as ambient cure epoxy coatings, valued for there adhesion to metal. Of course Epoxy resins are also used for high performance and decorative flooring applications especially terrazzo flooring, chip flooring and colored aggregate flooring. This is what you will use for the epoxy floor in your garage or workshop.

Adhesives – Epoxy adhesives are a major part of the class of adhesives called “structural adhesives” or “engineering adhesives” (which also includes polyurethane, acrylic, cyanoacrylate, and other chemistries.) These high-performance adhesives are used in the construction of aircraft, automobiles, bicycles, boats, golf clubs, skis, snow boards, and other applications where high strength bonds are required.

Electronics – Epoxy resin formulations are important in the electronics industry, and are employed in motors, generators, transformers, switchgear, bushings, and insulators. Epoxy resins are excellent electrical insulators and protect electrical components from short circuiting, dust and moisture. In the electronics industry epoxy resins are the primary resin used in overmolding integrated circuits, transistors and hybrid circuits, and making printed circuit boards.

Marine – There are two main areas of marine use. Because of the better mechanical properties relative to the more common polyester resins, epoxies are used for commercial manufacture of components where a high strength/weight ratio is required. The second area is that their strength, gap filling properties and excellent adhesion to many materials including timber have created a boom in amateur building projects including aircraft and boats.

Aerospace – In the aerospace industry, epoxy is used as a structural matrix material which is then reinforced by fiber. Typical fiber reinforcements include glass, carbon, Kevlar, and boron.

Wind Energy – Epoxy resin is used in manufacturing rotor blades of wind turbine. The resin is infused in the core material like Balsa, foam & reinforcing media glass fabric. The process is called VARTM i.e. vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding. Due to excellent properties & good finish, epoxy is most favoured resin for composites.

This should offer you a good technical background behind the science of your epoxy garage floor.

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The Technology Behind Epoxy

There is a wide variety of epoxy floor options depending on your specific needs. Here are some brief descriptions of some of the more poplar options for epoxy flooring:

Epoxy flaked floor

Create a textured look with an epoxy flaked floor. In addition to being a decorative choice, they are a very durable and easy to clean making them highly preferred for high traffic areas. A final coat of seal can be applied to make the floor even more resilient and also to prevent skidding. Flaked floors are popular because they don’t show the dirt as much as solid color floors. There are an endless number of color choices to select from and laying a flaked floor is not that difficult. Even if the surface underneath has flaws, imperfections are not that noticeable due to the textured quality of this type of floor. It is hard to make mistakes with this type of floor. Even if too many chips are added, those that don’t stick can be easily swept away after the floor dries.

Epoxy Anti-Static Floor

Mainly used in factories, laboratories, warehouses, and in areas of industrial and commercial manufacturing, the epoxy anti-static floor is a specially designed coating system. It is used to protect the surface of the flooring, making it easy to keep clean and maintain. This type of flooring enables a healthy, clean, and pleasant workplace environment.

There are many types of epoxy anti-static floor coatings available ranging from general-purpose coatings to specialty coatings. While the general-purpose coatings offer chemical resistance, the specialty coatings are better suited for a harsher chemical environment. The flooring is also available in many colors, enabling one to match the flooring with the surroundings.

Self-dispersing epoxy floor

There are a number of types of epoxy floor coverings that can protect the areas of your building that see high traffic. One such type is the self-dispersing epoxy floor covering. This type of floor covering is often used in warehouses and other facilities where heavy machinery such as construction equipment and forklifts make up a large part of the traffic on the floor. Self-dispersing epoxy floor coverings are durable and tough, and can handle the extra weight of such vehicles.

Self-dispersing epoxy floor with quartz sand

Epoxy is a polymer with many uses due to its high durability. A self-dispersing epoxy floor with quartz sand is an excellent choice for those who need a floor that will experience heavy usage and minimize the potential for slips. Epoxy is a powerful adhesive, which can contribute to producing a floor that is both long-lasting and easy to maintain, and is useful for homes, offices, or industrial structures. Quartz, an extremely strong material, is a perfect match for epoxy. Together they provide an very durable surface, stronger than concrete, and available in a variety of colors.

Self-leveling epoxy floor

A self-leveling epoxy floor is a copolymer modified cement topping that doesn’t shrink. It can be used on many different types of surfaces including concrete, tiles, rubber, and vinyl sheeting. This kind of epoxy floor is easy to use because it is one component and comes pre-proportioned. It hardens quickly and provides a great bond to prepared substrates. One ingredient in self-leveling epoxy floors prevents the liquid polymer from freezing making it easy to store and prevents damage to the product in shipping.

Mortar Epoxy Floor

A mortar epoxy floor can be used with great success in a number of circumstances. Restrooms and animal care centers are great places to take advantage of the mortar epoxy floor and its water-resistant qualities, while high-traffic areas or warehouses with forklift use can benefit from its high physical strength. The mortar epoxy is made from a mixture of epoxy resin, soy-based additives, and finely ground aggregates. The fine aggregate can often be made from recycled glass, so these ingredients, along with mortar epoxy’s ten-year service life, make it a highly sustainable building product.

Graveled Epoxy Floor

The most decorative of the epoxy floors, graveled epoxy floors are often used if a company or organization wants a logo, brand mark, or school mascot incorporated on their floor. They are more complicated to lay but are very slip resistant due to their rough texture. The gravel comes in different sizes and colors leaving limitless creative possibilities. Very tough and resilient to wear and tear, this style of epoxy flooring is low maintenance and can be used in a wide variety of settings.

Epoxy Terrazzo Floor

Create a work of art over an existing substrate with an epoxy terrazzo covering. It is an easy way to make geometric patterns, themes, and fancy designs in any color. This process is mostly used on commercial floors where owners are looking for a decorative touch on a high traffic area. Designs created with epoxy terrazzo can be embellished with small pieces of marble, glass, and plastic chips. The compound for epoxy terrazzo is environmentally friendly and lasts for many years despite wear and tear. It is easy to clean and maintain making it a healthy choice for public places that are looking to promote a sanitary environment.

As you can see your options abound when it comes to selecting an epoxy floor. Check out more of our Epoxy Floors website to learn about how this can make a great DIY project.

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