Epoxy Floor Coverings
Epoxy Flake System
Epoxy flake floor coverings are a type of flooring system that combines epoxy resin and decorative flakes to create a durable and visually appealing surface. These floors are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings due to their strength, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. Fresh Trax employs a four-coat system when installing epoxy floors.
Here's a step-by-step explanation of how Fresh Trax installs epoxy flake floor coverings:
1. Surface Preparation: The first step involves preparing the existing floor surface. This typically includes cleaning the floor thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or previous coatings. This includes grinding down the floor. It may also involve repairing cracks or imperfections in the floor.
2. Epoxy/Primer Base Coat: Once the surface is clean and dry the base coat is applied. The primer helps enhance adhesion between the existing floor and the epoxy coating. It also seals the floor and prevents moister penetration. After the primer has cured, the epoxy base coat is applied. This is a thick layer of epoxy resin that acts as the foundation for the flake system. It is spread evenly over the floor using a roller or squeegee. The base coat provides a smooth and level surface for the flakes to adhere to, and also the background color of the flake system.
3. Flake Broadcast: While the epoxy base coat is still wet, decorative flakes are broadcasted onto the surface. These flakes are typically made of acrylic or vinyl and come in a wide variety of colors, and sizes. The flakes are scattered by hand or using a mechanical flake dispenser until the desired coverage and pattern are achieved.
4. Clear Coat: Once the flake broadcast is complete, a clear coat of epoxy is applied over the flakes. The layer serves to encapsulate and protect the flakes, creating a smooth and durable finish.
5. Top Protectant Coat: This coat provides chemical resistance and UV protection for the floor.
6. Curing and Drying: The epoxy coating needs time to cure and harden. The curing time varies depending on the specific epoxy product used, but it typically takes a few hours to a few days. During this time, it's essential to restrict foot traffic and allow the floor to dry completely.
It's important to note that the installation process may vary slightly depending on the specific product used and the condition of the existing floor.
Benefits of Epoxy Floor Coatings
Epoxy flake floor coverings offer several advantages. They are highly durable and resistant to impacts, chemicals, stains, and abrasions. Moreover, the decorative flakes come in various colors and patterns, allowing for customization and creating visually appealing finishes. Additionally, epoxy flake floors are relatively low maintenance, easy to clean, and last for many years with proper care. Epoxy flake floors are designed to provide slip resistance, helping to minimize the risk of slipping and falling. However, it is essential to be aware that, like any epoxy floor, they can still become slippery, especially when wet.