- Epoxy Coating (Thin-Film Roll Applied)
- Epoxy Self-Leveling (High-Build Flow Applied)
Proper floor preparation is crucial for both systems to ensure adhesion and long-term durability.
Steps:
- Inspection of Substrate
- Check for cracks, moisture, oil, laitance, or loose particles.
- Moisture content should be <4% by CM test or per manufacturer's specs.
- Mechanical Grinding or Shot Blasting
- Diamond grinding or shot blasting to open pores and remove contaminants.
- Target surface profile: CSP 2–3 for coatings, CSP 3–5 for SL.
- Repair and Patching
- Fill cracks, holes, and damaged areas using epoxy putty or mortar.
- Cleaning
- Vacuum dust and debris. Ensure surface is dry and oil-free.
System Overview:
- Typically 0.3mm to 1.0mm thick
- Applied with rollers or brushes
- Designed for light-duty areas such as warehouses, showrooms, etc.
Step | Description |
Primer | Apply a compatible epoxy primer (roller applied), typically 0.1–0.2mm. Cures for 6–12 hours. |
Base Coat / Main Coat | Apply 100% solids epoxy using roller or squeegee and back-rolled to even out. Thickness: 0.2–0.8mm. Can be one or two coats. |
Optional Topcoat | Optional polyurethane or UV-resistant clear coat may be applied for extra durability or aesthetics. |
- Rollers (solvent-resistant)
- Brushes for edges
- Mixing paddles
- Spiked shoes (for walking during wet application)
- Light foot traffic: 24 hours
- Full mechanical: 3–7 days
System Overview:
- Thickness: 1.0mm to 5.0mm (typical is 2–3mm)
- Applied using notched trowels and spike rollers
- Designed for medium to heavy-duty areas like cleanrooms, pharma, food factories
Step | Description |
Primer | Epoxy primer with good penetration to seal surface (roller applied). May require sand broadcast for intercoat adhesion. |
Scratch Coat (optional) | A thin levelling layer to fill minor surface imperfections before SL coat. Applied with a trowel. |
Self-Leveling Layer | Mixed 100% solids epoxy (often with fine fillers) poured and spread using notched trowel to desired thickness. Spike roller used to remove air bubbles. |
Optional Topcoat | Optional clear or pigmented PU or epoxy for additional resistance. |
- Notched trowels
- Mixing drill with helical paddle
- Spike roller
- Gauge rake (for thicker applications)
- Spiked shoes
- Light traffic: 24–36 hours
- Full cure: 5–7 days
Feature | Epoxy Coating | Epoxy Self-Leveling |
Thickness | 0.3 – 1.0 mm | 1.0 – 5.0 mm |
Application Method | Rollers/brush | Trowel + Spike Roller |
Finish | Thin film, visible texture of substrate | Smooth, seamless, high-gloss or satin |
Durability | Light-duty | Medium to heavy-duty |
Installation Time | Shorter | Longer (more steps and curing) |
Surface Imperfections | May show through | Covered/leveled by self-leveling layer |
Cost | Lower | Higher (more materials & labor) |
Slip Resistance | Can add fine sand | Can add anti-slip aggregates |
Best Use | Warehouses, corridors, car parks (light) | Labs, pharma, F&B, showrooms |
- Moisture Tolerance: Use moisture-tolerant primer if substrate is not fully dry.
- Temperature: Application temperature usually >10°C and <35°C.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow, especially with solvent-based systems.
- Safety: PPE is essential — gloves, goggles, masks (some systems may contain VOCs).
Choosing between Epoxy Coating and Epoxy Self-Leveling depends on:
- Service Load (light vs. heavy traffic)
- Aesthetic Requirements (smooth vs. textured)
- Budget Constraints
- Installation Time and Complexity