If one
is looking for the best and durable floor coating for garage floors,
epoxy floor coatings are the most recommended products because of the
ease in its application. In addition, it is cost effective, durable and
aesthetically pleasing versus a dull gray concrete of a garage floor.
The benefits of epoxy floor paint include:
->> Strong adhesion
->> Long lasting
->> Rustproof
->> Heat resistant (no hot tire pick-up)
->> Salt and acid resistance
->> Reduced maintenance costs
->> Nontoxic when dry
This
paint resin does not only add beauty to the floor, but also, hides
stains, spills and other imperfections that may have developed over
time. It is commonly known in the market as the garage sealer because it
is effective in sealing the cracks and holes on cemented garage floors.
Not
all floors can be applied with epoxy coatings though. Floors that are
always wet or “sweats” do not provide a good surface for epoxy coatings
and the paint will not last long with the constant moisture. The same
goes for exterior concrete surfaces perpetually exposed to the elements.
There are basically three types of epoxies:
->> 100% solid type is the strongest and the most expensive. This should only be handled by professionals.
->>
Solvent-based, which are not as strong, are mostly for industrial use.
They contain 40 – 60% solids and the solvents are very toxic.
->>
Water-based epoxies are the cheapest and are not as durable though
strong enough for residential use. It is much more user friendly.
Once
applied, epoxy floor coatings provide an added layer of strength and
protection to the concrete itself because of its high resistance to
scratch, dent and ordinary wear and tear. It increases the floor’s
resiliency to stain, even those from oil, dirt and tire marks and hide
minor imperfections. It gives the floor a glossy finish in different
shades which can be enhanced with decorative quartz, paint chips and
other design options.
Hiring
professional installers can save one on future maintenance costs. A
2-part epoxy binder (base coat for decorative chips) which contains 95 –
100 percent solids results in a much thicker and, therefore, more
durable coating finish. On the other hand, it is because of this extra
thick finish that regular care and maintenance should be done e.g.
frequent sweeping and dry mopping to get rid of dirt which is very
abrasive and can leave scratches on the flooring. Wiping and cleaning up
spills immediately are advised to keep off moisture which could cause
the epoxy to bubble and even destroy the floor below it.
To preserve its hardy surface, here are some other simple steps:
1.Use
all-purpose cleaning product (ammonia would do) and mix it with warm
(never hot) water according to manufacturer’s direction. Scrub the floor
with sponge or string mop as needed. Take the necessary precautions
when using ammonia which is caustic and can burn skin. Make sure the
area is well-ventilated and wear protective clothing.
2.Rinse
well the bucket of soapy water as well as the mop head before rinsing
the floor with clean water. Do this until any suds or residue is no
longer seen on the floor. Allow the floor to dry naturally or wipe it
down with a clean dry cloth.
With proper care, one can enjoy the benefits of an epoxy floor coating for a long time.
Article Source: http://www.compensationsecrets.co.uk/