Versatile and durable, concrete epoxy coatings are the choice of many businesses when it comes to repairing and protecting floors. Concrete seems like an exceptionally durable material. Although it can hold up to years of wear and tear, it is also porous. This means that it is susceptible to damage from contaminants like chemicals, water, and dirt. In high-traffic areas, concrete can become cracked from excessive use and heavy loads. Consider an epoxy coating as a solution to your concrete flooring needs.
Why Choose Concrete Epoxy Coatings
Concrete epoxy coatings can benefit your floors in several ways. First, they can strengthen your existing floors to be resistant to many different circumstances, including:
- Chemical resistance
- Prevent stains from oils, acids, and other compounds
- Reduce absorption of water
- Impervious to freezing temperatures
Coatings also make your floors easy to maintain. While bare concrete is porous, epoxy creates a smooth finish. It can often be cleaned with a damp mop.
Additionally, the added layer of protection means that floors will last longer. Although there is nothing that can prevent damage over a long term, the addition of a coating will prevent small cracks, chips, and dusting from occurring.
Concrete Epoxy Coatings for Repairs
If your concrete floors are already worn or damaged, some repair will be necessary before applying any type of coating. The floor will need to be cleaned to remove any debris and existing finishes. It should also be level and even, but not perfectly smooth. Epoxy needs texture to adhere, but any blemishes will only cause the finish to deteriorate. If there are significant cracks or holes, those will need to be filled as part of the floor preparation.
How Concrete Epoxy Coatings are Applied
Concrete epoxy coatings come in two basic applications: water-based or 100 percent solid. Water-based epoxy coatings are simply spread over the floor and allowed to dry. They are best in low-traffic areas because they are lighter. The 100 percent solid epoxy coatings are much stronger and ca be used to repair damaged floors. They are also more complex to apply, and must be mixed and troweled down using specialized equipment.
Both can be used on large or small jobs. In addition, there are several cosmetic options when applying either type of coatings. Dyes and stains can be added to tint your concrete coatings in any color you desire. Multiple colors may be used for anything from aesthetic design elements to practical traffic aisle designation.
Timing is essential to the application process. The concrete must have a low moisture level and be between about 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When either of these factors is off, the finish may bubble or peel. It is important to calculate how long each of the steps will take, from preparation to completion, and to plan accordingly. Many materials need 12 to 24 hours to cure before the next application. For the best results, two coats of epoxy and a top coat of sealer are usually recommended.
Industrial and Commercial Floor Epoxy
The versatility of epoxy makes it ideal for both industrial and commercial applications. Whether you need commercial floor epoxy for a retail business or a solution for a large warehouse that experiences heavy vehicle traffic, this material is useful in both types of environments. Your facility’s flooring will remain protected from damage and wear, helping eliminate the need for frequent maintenance that might otherwise cost money and time.
Working with a Professional Contractor
Some small businesses prefer the do-it-yourself approach. When you are on a tight budget, this is a practical option. However, the process of installing concrete epoxy coatings is complex and requires skill and experience. If done incorrectly, it can cost you much more overall than you initially saved.
ICS hires the most qualified professional contractors. We work to ensure your project is completed on your timetable and under your budget. Contact us for a free evaluation by providing some basic information through the Got a Project form. You can also subscribe to our newsletter by filling in the form in the sidebar. Our services are available in a number of metro areas, including Portsmouth, NH; Springfield, MA; and Hartford, CT.
Concrete Flooring Service Area
ICS provides professional concrete solutions to all of the northeast. Here is a small list of cities and towns where we have completed many industrial and commercial concrete flooring applications.
| Portland, Maine | Bangor, Maine | Augusta, Maine |
| Nashua, New Hampshire | Manchester, New Hampshire | Portsmouth, New Hampshire |
| Boston, Massachusetts | Worecester, Massachusetts | Springfield, Massachusetts |
| Burlington, Vermont | Montpelier, Vermont | St. Johnsbury, Vermont |
| Providence, Rhode Island | Warwick, Rhode Island | Cranston, Rhode Island |
| Hartford, Connecticut | New Haven, Connecticut | Stamford, Connecticut |
| New York | New Jersey | Pennsylvania |