Do You Know Why You Want An Epoxy Floor?
Posted on: 8 November 2022
Epoxy floors are popular in various settings, from industrial spaces to residential garages. Many buyers choose these floor coverings for their durability and appearance, but people often don't realize that epoxy flooring comes in many different styles. The thin, roll-on flooring you may associate with epoxy coverings is just one option.
If you're planning on installing an epoxy floor covering for your home or business, it's crucial to understand why you've decided that this option is right for you. By considering your specific needs, you'll be able to choose the type of epoxy best suited for your application. This guide will go over how your use case can impact three critical characteristics of your epoxy flooring.
1. Self-Leveling
Self-leveling is typically a characteristic of the epoxy you apply and your application method. Self-leveling epoxies are sometimes known as poured epoxies due to how installers apply them on the floor. After mixing, you typically pour the epoxy from its bucket or container and use a trowel to spread it evenly. Other types of epoxies go on with a roller, similar to paint.
Self-leveling epoxies tend to be more expensive since they require thicker coats, but they can provide better overall protection. A self-leveling epoxy will produce a smoother, shinier, and more even finish, while roller-applied epoxies produce a more textured appearance. This higher cost may be worthwhile if you need a more durable finish, such as in an industrial setting.
2. Thickness
While self-leveling epoxies are typically thicker than roller-applied epoxies, there's still room for variation in both categories. Depending on your needs, you can apply an incredibly thin coating or install a much thicker epoxy floor. The primary tradeoff with thickness is strength versus surface preparation and cost. A thicker epoxy will cost more and require more in-depth surface preparation.
Whether or not you need to go thicker will depend on your environment. A typical residential garage doesn't need a thick epoxy coating since these surfaces face minimal traffic and abuse. On the other hand, an industrial or commercial setting with heavy traffic and significant exposure to chemicals may require a much thicker coating of epoxy for protection.
3. Texture
The texture of your epoxy flooring is both a functional and aesthetic consideration. Epoxy floorings are smooth, shiny, and potentially very slick without any additives. However, many epoxies include special non-skid additives to increase safety. These additives allow you to choose a smooth texture without creating a dangerously slick surface.
On the other hand, you may want to consider granule or flake textures for floors with noticeable imperfections or uneven surfaces. These textures help hide imperfections and maintain the floor's appearance for longer. Finally, heavy-duty, non-slip textures add even more grip, making them suitable for wet environments where slips and falls are a serious hazard.
Contact a company like A-1 Construction & Remodeling to learn more.
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