How to Apply Concrete Floor Epoxy

When it comes to remodeling a basement or a garage, many just don’t know how to approach the dank and dreary concrete floor. Luckily, epoxy coatings can provide a relatively inexpensive, attractive, long-lasting solution. However, it’s important to apply the material correctly to avoid a costly and sometimes dangerous situation.

Things You Will Need

• Course broom or brush
• Chemical degreaser
• Muriatic acid kit for etching
• Epoxy kit
• How to Apply Concrete Floor Epoxy
• Roller extension pole
• Three-quarter-inch nap roller cover
• Roller frame
• Five-gallon bucket
• Stir stick

Steps

1. Scrape away loose concrete, dirt and other residue with a flat-edged putty knife. Scrub greasy areas with a chemical degreasing agent and a course broom or brush. Wash the entire concrete floor thoroughly with soap and water. Use towels and a fan to dry the floor. Wait about two to four hours for the concrete floor to dry.
2. Dilute the muriatic acid with water as instructed by the labeling on the product. Apply the solution with the spray nozzle that should have been included with the kit you purchased. Allow the acid to sit for fifteen to twenty minutes. Rinse the solution thoroughly with a water hose. Feel the floor with your fingers. Repeat until the concrete surface feels gritty to the touch. Allow the surface to dry completely.
3. Mix the epoxy resin with the catalyst in your five-gallon bucket with a stir stick. Add any pigment that may be included with your kit. Dip your roller into the mixture. Roll the mixture onto the concrete surface starting at one corner of the concrete surface and moving left to right. Proceed from left to right being especially careful not to trap yourself in any specific section of the room by literally painting yourself into a corner. Cover the concrete surface completely with the epoxy mixture. Allow the surface to dry and then apply a second coat. Sprinkle the epoxy texture onto the surface before the second coat dries.

Things to Consider

Since certain brands and types of epoxy coatings have special instructions, be sure to read the labels before you begin the application process. Pay special attention the preparation process as this will be the main determining factor in the overall appearance of your epoxy finished concrete floor. Don’t cut corners when preparing your concrete surface or your finished product may not last.

Muriatic acid is a very dangerous form of acid that can severely burn the skin. In addition, the fumes can damage the lungs and cause severe breathing difficulties. Make sure the area you are working in is properly ventilated and always follow the safety instructions that come along with your kit.