What is a coating system?
There are many different kinds of epoxy products on the market, each catering to specific needs for each floor. There are epoxies, polyurethanes, polyureas, and polyaspartics, each of which suit different needs. The combination of one or more of these products will create the coating system. Coating systems hold many advantages over DIY epoxy kits.
The advantages of coating systems
Different coating systems have different thicknesses. This thickness is referred to as millage. Generally speaking, the higher the millage, the more durable the floor. Our chipped systems provide higher millage, added color, and texture. We have two different types of chips that are used in the coatings, the first of which being a PVA (plastic-based chip), the other being Mica (natural reflective mineral). These two types of chips can be combined and customized for different colors and styles.
The application process and why it is beneficial
Each floor requires specific assessment of which product needs to be used for that space specifically. The types of products used in a garage vs. an outdoor patio for example, can vary. So, there are many factors that should be considered when choosing which type of system to use. These factors include, but are not limited to, weather exposure, UV exposure, moisture levels in the concrete, chemical exposure, and of course, the cost. Therefore, it is advised that you consult with a professional to choose the best floor coating system for your specific project.
Once the correct coating system is chosen, the next step is to prepare the concrete. Preparation includes assessing the concrete for moisture, damage, and pre-existing coatings/sealers. Next, a diamond bit grinder is used to grind off any existing coatings/sealers as well as introducing a profile to the surface that will allow the primer coat to bond. Failure to introduce a sufficient profile may result in the coating peeling off in the near future, costing you more money in the long term.
After the preparation process is complete, the 100% Solids MME (moisture mitigating epoxy) can be laid down. This is where the chips are broadcast into the epoxy giving it the added color and texture. Finally, the system gets its top coat with anti-slip material giving it a beautiful and durable finish.
In conclusion, take advantage of coating systems
It is important to understand that different floors have different factors that can affect which product is optimal. Many contractors use 1 day coating systems as a “one size fits all” approach. This does not cater to the specific needs of each individual floor, and will likely result in failure of the coating. DIY kits share the same issues; they cannot fulfill the needs of each individual floor. If you seek a beautiful, durable, and long lasting floor the best choice is to consult a professional who can help choose which system will work best for you.
See our next post about concrete preparation methods: