Compare Concrete Floor Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy coatings are often applied to concrete floors to improve durability, strength and appearance. The epoxy makes the floor much easier to clean, and helps to repel stains caused by oil, grease and spills. There are many different types of epoxy floor coatings, and it is important for buyers to take the time to compare different options. When comparing epoxy coatings, consider appearance, maintenance, installation and cost so you can find the product that's best for your floor.
Instructions
1. Think about the type of appearance you're trying to create. Some epoxy coatings are colored like paint, while others are tinted or clear. If you want to keep your concrete looking the same, choose a clear coating. To liven up the look of your floor, choose a color that complements the rest of your decor.
2. Consider texture. Epoxy coatings can be used to create a wide range of textures on a concrete floor. They can be very gritty or as smooth as glass. Consider both safety and aesthetics when choosing the texture for your coating, and keep in mind that heavier textures are harder to keep clean.
3. Compare solvent or VOC content. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals used in many epoxy products. VOC's in these coatings will evaporate as they dry, so you'll have to use twice as much of a 50 percent solvent product as you would with a solvent-free product. As they dry, VOCs off-gas into the air in your home and are linked to poor indoor air quality. Choose low or no-VOC/solvent-free coatings for the best results.
4. Determine whether the coating will be applied over wet or dry floors. Wet concrete floors are generally described as those that have cured for less than 90 days, or floors that are prone to moisture due to humidity within the home. If your floors are "wet," choose a product that can be applied over wet floors.
5. Review costs. Low-VOC products tend to be more expensive, but they provide much more coverage than high-VOC products. Also remember that the long-term effects of poor indoor air quality caused by VOC off-gassing can lead to health problems in the future.
6. Check the fire-rating for each product. Look for coatings that have been tested in accordance with ASTM E648, which is the international standard for fire testing on floor coating products.
7. Consider the mix ratio of each product. Nearly all epoxy coatings consist of a two part system, which must be mixed in specific ratios. Some products are more user-friendly than others, and will work even in the mix ratio is not exact. Choose a product that offers a bit of flexibility when it comes to mixing.
8. Select a product based on its intended application. Epoxy coatings may be sprayed, poured, painted or rolled. Painting and rolling are the easiest applications for novice installers and result in fewer errors. Spraying requires the use of more specialized spraying equipment, and poured floors are best left to professional installers.
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