Epoxy floor coatings, such as self-leveling epoxy, can be applied over concrete floors to create a durable, low-maintenance flooring surface. However, the only legitimate reason to apply epoxy on rough concrete is to prevent dust buildup and stop the surface from absorbing water or other chemicals.
Many people believe that if they apply a high-build epoxy coating (like self-leveling) over rough concrete, the surface will instantly smooth out and become level.
No, you will need to complete general leveling and proper floor preparation before the floor coatings installation.
Cementitious mortars are one example of an alternative approach that is not only more structurally sound but also more cost-effective. The installation of epoxy and other floor coatings must adhere to the manufacturer recommended thickness or coverage rates, referred to as the dry and wet film thicknesses.
When choosing the right epoxy floor coating, you can avoid the need for costly maintenance practices such as waxing, polishing, or strenuous cleaning methods. This benefit is one of the main reasons for choosing an epoxy floor coating with high resistance to abrasion and staining while still being easy to clean.
If your epoxy floors have lost the sheen they held in their prime, you may need to start with a proper cleaning regiment. Waxing the floor could be a solution to return the gloss but it will need to be upkept once the process is started and eventually scratch or wear off. The first call should be to a floor coating specialist to assess the floor. The floor may need to be sanded or ground and then have a new coating installed or maybe just simply cleaned properly.
The durability of an epoxy floor is a major selling point for many of today's customers.
Once poured and set, epoxy bonds to the concrete and forms an integral part of the building. If you take the time to prepare the surface and choose high-quality materials correctly, your floor coating should outlast its expected lifespan by a significant margin. Compared to a painted concrete floor, which can chip and wear fast in high-traffic areas, this one will last for at least 15 to 20 years.
Yes, you can also install vinyl tiles on concrete floors.
Putting in vinyl tile is a smart investment because of the way it improves the look and feel of any room. However, not all vinyl tiles are made alike, and sometimes special attention to the concrete floor is required to ensure a smooth installation. Vinyl flooring, with the right surface preparation and adhesives, may be an excellent long-term solution for flooring. This should not be used in commercial kitchens however.