To no surprise, the rising popularity of Epoxy flake floors leaves newcomers hungry for more information.
Especially with the ever-growing social media craze, and the fact practically anyone can have a flake floor in their garage leaves potential consumers wanting more.
So, let’s break down some facts.
What are flake floors?
What are the benefits of epoxy flake floors?
Are flake floors safe or eco-friendly?
Let’s Dig in.
What are Epoxy Flake Floors?
In short, an epoxy flake floor is a protective concrete surface coating that was initially intended for high-use, commercial, or industrial settings. These coatings will protect your concrete from harsh wear and (most) chemicals while providing an easy-to-clean, antibacterial/antimicrobial surface, suitable for heavy foot traffic and light-heavy machinery.
The ‘flakes’ in the floor are specially formulated paint aggregates used to enhance and add extra layers of protection to your coating. They (flakes) can come in a variety of colors, and some installers offer custom blend options as well.
A properly installed epoxy flake floor is comprised of a multi-step installation process that is as follows:
- Diamond-Grind your concrete surface to a porous state, to accept the coating application.
- Repair any cracks, pitting, or divots
- Apply self-priming epoxy basecoat
- Apply (hand broadcast) flakes to rejection
- Scrape & clean excess flakes
- Apply UV stable Topcoat (Polyurea, Polyaspartic, or Epoxy)
Surface preparation is a labor-intensive process that takes many hours of training and (preferred) manufacturer certifications. Do not attempt this on your own; leave it to the professionals.
Applications:
Of the countless application types, the most common (& growing more popular) among American homeowners is the garage floor coating.
Many installers are now offering 1-day systems that can have a return to service in as little as 24 – 75 hours. Very few installers have a system that is advertised as a 4 – 12 hour return to service.
In addition to garage floors, these types of flake floor coatings can be great for pool decks, patios, porches, walkways, driveways, washrooms, indoor spaces, businesses, gyms, warehouses, pet boarding facilities, medical facilities, restaurants, kitchens, retail spaces, offices, & much more.
Epoxy Concrete Health Risks:
When in an uncured state, epoxy is considered an irritant, and should be avoided with skin contact.
Some installers may develop rashes or allergic reactions due to prolonged (physical) exposure to uncured epoxy, and not wearing proper PPE when installing the product.
In regards to when the epoxy is dry, it is 100% safe for human contact.
Flake floors when fully cured are absolutely safe for adults, kids, and pets.
In Summary:
Flake floors are a safe and effective alternative to your bare concrete surface.
Got any questions? Call us today at (561) 632-1855