Self leveling epoxy is an ideal solution for creating smooth, durable, and aesthetically pleasing surfaces in both residential and commercial spaces. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your floors, countertops, or industrial workspaces, epoxy provides a glossy, high-performance finish that’s resistant to chemicals, scratches, and moisture. This guide will take you through the process of applying self-leveling epoxy for the best results.
What Is Self-Leveling Epoxy?
Self-leveling epoxy is designed to fill in cracks and chipped areas to create a smooth surface. It can be a money-saver when trying to repair your concrete floor. It provides all the same benefits of an epoxy floor coating and is low-maintenance.
Where to Apply?
This type of epoxy floor coating is perfect for high-traffic areas that need a durable surface. Those places include:
- Athletic fitness centers
- Commercial kitchens and garages
- Manufacturers and warehouses
- Hospitals
- Showrooms
- Aircraft hangars
Materials Needed:
- Self-leveling epoxy kit (usually includes resin and hardener)
- Mixing buckets
- Paint roller and brushes
- Notched squeegee or trowel
- Measuring cup
- Painter’s tape
- Surface cleaner (e.g., degreaser)
- Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses, respirator mask)
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- Heat gun or torch (optional for removing bubbles)
- Primer (if necessary)
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful epoxy application. Follow these steps to ensure your surface is clean, smooth, and ready for the epoxy:
- Clean the surface thoroughly: Remove any dirt, dust, grease, or debris. Use a vacuum for dust and a degreaser to clean oily or greasy spots.
- Repair imperfections: Fill cracks or holes with a suitable filler and smooth them out. Self-leveling epoxy will flow over minor imperfections, but large flaws can affect the finish.
- Ensure surface dryness: Epoxy will not adhere well to moist surfaces, so confirm that the area is dry.
- Sand the surface: If you’re applying epoxy to a previously coated area, lightly sand the surface to promote better adhesion.
Step 2: Apply Primer (If Necessary)
For porous surfaces such as concrete, applying a primer is important. The primer acts as a base layer, allowing the epoxy to bond properly. Some epoxy kits come with a primer, or you can buy it separately.
- Apply the primer using a roller or brush in an even layer. Be sure to cover the entire surface.
- Let it dry: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the drying time, which usually ranges from 4 to 24 hours.
Step 3: Mix the Epoxy
Epoxy comes in two parts: resin and hardener. You need to mix these components properly for the epoxy to cure effectively.
- Measure and mix accurately: Use a measuring cup to ensure the correct ratio of resin to hardener (usually 1:1 or 2:1). Inaccurate ratios can lead to improper curing or a tacky surface.
- Stir thoroughly: Mix the components in a clean bucket. Use a stir stick or a mixing paddle attached to a drill for about 3-5 minutes until the solution is evenly mixed and free of streaks.
Step 4: Pour and Spread the Epoxy
Once the epoxy is mixed, you have a limited working time (typically 30-40 minutes) before it starts to cure. Act quickly but carefully to pour and spread it.
- Pour the epoxy onto the surface in long, straight lines.
- Use a notched squeegee or trowel to spread the epoxy evenly across the surface. The notched edge helps maintain an even thickness.
- Roll the epoxy: After spreading it with the squeegee, use a roller to smooth out the surface. This will help eliminate lines or ridges.
- Let it flow: Self-leveling epoxy will naturally spread and level itself out. Allow it to settle for a few minutes.
Step 5: Remove Air Bubbles
During the application, air bubbles can form in the epoxy. These bubbles need to be removed to ensure a smooth, glass-like finish.
- Use a heat gun or torch: Gently pass it over the surface to pop any bubbles. Be careful not to overheat or scorch the epoxy.
- Continue to monitor: Check for new bubbles as the epoxy settles and remove them as needed.
Step 6: Let the Epoxy Cure
Curing time is crucial to achieving a hard, durable surface.
- Allow the epoxy to cure: This usually takes 24-48 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. Make sure the area is well-ventilated.
- Avoid walking or placing objects on the surface until it’s fully cured.
Step 7: Optional Final Coat
If you want extra protection or a high-gloss finish, apply a final topcoat of epoxy or polyurethane after the base layer has cured. This can also add UV resistance if the surface is exposed to sunlight.
Tips for Best Results:
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Epoxy fumes can be strong, so ensure proper ventilation.
- Maintain a consistent temperature: Ideal temperatures for epoxy application range between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 30°C). Extremes in temperature can affect curing time and finish.
- Use drop cloths: Protect surrounding areas with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to prevent accidental drips.
Benefits of Self-Leveling Epoxy Flooring
There are numerous benefits of epoxy floor coating. No matter where it’s used, people will sing the praises of this type of floor coating.
Strength
The strength and durability of epoxy flooring are above and beyond. It is perfect for high-performance areas because it can take impact and weight easily. It also adds to the life of your concrete flooring, by as much as 20 years!
Chemical Resistant
For pharmaceutical facilities, labs, and other environments that use chemicals regularly, epoxy is a lifesaver. Chemicals do not affect the floor; it is also waterproof and mold-proof. Of course, we don’t recommend just casually pouring anything onto the floor. But if you spill something and clean it up right away, your floor will last a long time.
Easy Clean-Up
With a dry/wet mop, cleaning is effortless. It takes just a few minutes to get everything up and go on with your day safely.
Slip Resistance
An epoxy floor coating is shiny and lustrous yet not slippery at all. It adds just the right amount of grip to keep you upright. It is even safe to walk on when wet!
Looks Beautiful
Speaking of shine, epoxy has a high-gloss look that brings out the room. Even in the roughest environments, the floors look fantastic.
Versatile Application
Self leveling epoxy can be used with other epoxies to make exciting and unique designs. Give your showroom a special look by layering colors to create a new look. Put your favorite football team logo on your garage floor. The possibilities are endless if you have an idea.
Remarks
Minnesotans know that the cold, harsh weather can damage our concrete floors. So the next time you notice a crack or chipping, call The Concrete Guy. We will happily talk to you about self-leveling epoxy and other options to make your floor look fantastic.
