Driveway
Cracking? How To Concrete Resurface Quickly and Easily
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Do-It-Yourself
Garage Floor Epoxy System One reason for failure is not every concrete floor is ideal for applying an epoxy coating. Many floors have too much hydrostatic pressure, meaning water moves from the under the slab up to the surface in a process called capillary action. Moisture then collects on the surface, which breaks the bond between the concrete and the epoxy coat. If the floor "sweats" even when it's dry outside or there are areas that seem to stay moist for long periods of time, then an epoxy coating will almost certainly fail. It will gradually chip and flake away. Even if you don't think there is a moisture problem, it's a good idea to apply an efflorescence or salt blocker before the epoxy. This will help prevent moisture from causing problems. The most probable reason for failure is improper surface preparation. The floor must be completely clean and stripped of all other coatings. Any stains or foreign substances (oil, grease, paint, etc.) will prevent adequate bonding between the concrete and epoxy, resulting in chipping and flaking. Most contractors will apply a coat of sealer to a garage floor after installation. It can take several years for the sealer to wear off completely. This sealer must be removed for epoxy to last. Although acid etching is an important step, it will not remove sealer and most stains. Etching will only open up the pores of bare concrete, therefore you must do all cleaning and stripping before etching with acid. Before purchasing a garage floor epoxy system, you need to first decide
if your floor is right for it. If it sweats often or there are areas
that are constantly wet, then forget about it. Be sure that you are
willing to take the time to prep the floor properly, as this is the
most critical part. It also helps to put one or two coats of clear concrete
sealer on top to serve as a wear coat. Water based acrylic sealers are
ideal for indoor residential use. Despite any bad reviews you've heard
about the do-it-yourself garage floor epoxy system, it can be a successful
project if it's done correctly.
Kirk Muhlhauser offers ideas and instructions for enhancing your home's concrete surfaces. Find information on concrete stains, paints, and sealers at www.all-things-concrete.com. Article Source:
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