Concrete helps to obtain a reliable floor covering; usually in apartments or houses the concrete surface is covered with finishing materials on top. But such repairs are not always carried out in workshops or basements, but concrete also needs protection, like other materials. Epoxy paint for concrete floors is suitable for this type of coating. It can become an excellent coating anywhere. More details about the features of working with it on a concrete base will be discussed below.
Why paint concrete
Many will find it strange that a concrete base needs to be protected. However, its porous structure allows various elements to penetrate into the depths, which can lead to deterioration of the material.
So, over time, under the influence of various factors, such as temperature changes, high humidity, mechanical stress, the quality and wear resistance of all floors suffers. Also, concrete does not withstand the effects of chemicals. All these negative factors will lead to too rapid deterioration of the material.
Therefore, painting the floor surface with epoxy concrete paint can significantly improve its wear resistance and increase the service life of the floors.
Painting the surface of the floor with epoxy concrete paint can significantly improve its durability and increase the life of the floor.
Scope of application
Epoxy polyester, acrylic epoxy and epoxy paints are widely used in various fields. They form different types of surfaces - completely non-slip, protective, fluorescent, matte, glossy, textured, quick-drying.
The following compositions are used to paint:
- travel accessories;
- household items;
- internal and external parts of passenger cars;
- electrical appliances;
- decorative garden figurines;
- office furniture;
- radiators, heaters;
- toys;
- floors and walls;
- facades;
- containers with chemicals.
Epoxy paint can be used to paint concrete bathroom floors. This will protect them from moisture, and the neighbors below from leaks. In addition, this is an excellent alternative to ceramic tiles. This coating can be used to protect coils and other metal parts in bathrooms and kitchens from corrosion. If you cover wood with this paint, it will be reliably protected from rot and insects.
Advantages of epoxy paint
Epoxy enamel for concrete has a number of positive characteristics that explain the popularity of using it as a coloring agent on surfaces made of this material. The advantages include:
- Good adhesion to the material;
- The coating is wear-resistant;
- High waterproofing properties, especially important for foundations with reinforcing structures;
- The paint is elastic;
- Good vapor conductivity;
- Resistance to sudden changes in temperature, atmospheric influences, chemicals;
- Gives a pleasant decorative look to the floor base;
- Electrical insulation rates are high;
- Suitable for use on fresh screed;
- Presence of antibacterial components;
- Can be used for outdoor work.
This coating can be washed using various means; the coating retains its aesthetic appearance for a long time.
Epoxy enamel for concrete has a number of positive characteristics.
Manufacturers
The manufacturer of paints of this type is the Tikkurila brand. Epoxy mixtures are popular due to their high performance characteristics.
It is worth highlighting Tikkurila two-component paint, which is suitable for both new and old concrete floors. It does not contain organic solvents. This mixture allows you to obtain the desired decorative effect, since it can be tinted in any color (according to the RAL catalogue).
The Jotafloor series products have proven themselves well. They are resistant to shock loads, abrasive cleaning agents, chemicals and ultraviolet radiation. The product formula contains additives that provide anti-slip properties. The mixture consumption level varies between 100-120 ml/sq.m.
How to choose paint
To get the desired effect, you need to pay special attention to the choice of product. In this case, the following parameters must be taken into account:
- Where concrete floors will be covered, what conditions will surround the surface. If painting is carried out on the street or in a garage, where mechanical and chemical influences are more common, then you should choose a more sustainable option. The powder type requires the use of heating chambers during preparation, so it is not suitable for household needs. An excellent alternative is two-component concrete paint;
- What loads will be placed on the coating;
- It wouldn’t hurt to know the floor area so that you can calculate the amount of paint composition.
Epoxypol is a two-component epoxy enamel for concrete floors, which is excellent for covering surfaces subject to high mechanical, chemical and atmospheric influences. At the same time, it gives the surface a pleasant appearance. It can be applied in a thick layer up to 500 microns, it is easy and convenient to apply.
To get the desired effect, you need to pay special attention to the choice of product.
Features of the composition
The technology for the production of epoxy dyes was put on stream in the late 40s of the last century. Both then and now, the basis of the composition is epoxy resin - a low molecular weight polymer capable of forming a coating as a result of a chemical polymerization reaction. Epoxy resin itself is not used to obtain the coating; additional components are needed. Final polymerization occurs after the resin interacts with the following substances:
- Hardeners . They speed up the reaction and influence the formation of a durable coating.
- Solvents and thinners . Improves the dissolution and combination of mixture elements.
- Modifiers . Binding components responsible for additional properties.
- Pigments . Create the desired shade of coverage.
In practice, paint polymerization occurs after mixing the epoxy resin with the hardener. By combining components (resins and hardeners) and their proportions, a dye is created for different surfaces.
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Epoxy-based paint acquires additional properties with the addition of the following components:
- Acrylic resin . The coating becomes more resistant to ultraviolet radiation.
- Aluminium oxide . An anti-slip effect appears.
- Phenolic resin . Increases resistance to chemical compounds.
- Fiberglass (in the form of glass flakes) . Improves wear resistance and heat resistance (this paint is used, for example, for painting stoves).
Application technology
Before proceeding to the direct application of the dye to the surface of the floors, several preparatory steps need to be carried out. They will be discussed in more detail in the following chapters.
Before proceeding to the direct application of the dye to the surface of the floors, several preparatory steps need to be carried out.
Preparing the concrete surface
The preparation of the concrete base itself will determine how long and well the paint will last. Moreover, the actions differ on concrete structures that have just been built from those that are already standing for a long period of time.
A fresh screed can be painted five days after creation. At this time, the concrete hardens well enough and has the necessary moisture content for applying paint to it.
The surface is leveled, all existing defects are removed from it. Concrete pores are cleaned and cement laitance is removed.
This process can be performed using a trowel or a stiff brush. All dust should be vacuumed up after this.
If painting is carried out on an old concrete surface, then, on the contrary, it must be thoroughly dried. Otherwise the epoxy will start to peel off. The moisture content of the base is determined using a special device. If it is absent, you can glue a film to the surface, after 24 hours they look to see if it is covered with moisture and if it is damp to the touch. If the film is dry, then you can proceed to painting; if not, you should wait until the floors are completely dry.
Next, an inspection is carried out for the presence of flaws. Those places where there are large cracks are expanded to 5 millimeters; such defects will be covered with epoxy putty. The surface is also cleaned and vacuumed.
The surface is leveled, all existing defects are removed from it.
Precautionary measures
Two-component compositions, which are the most popular, must be mixed for painting. At this time, they can release substances harmful to human health. Therefore, work must be carried out in protective clothing, special glasses and rubber gloves are worn, and a respirator is also required.
The room must be provided with good ventilation. Do not use utensils that are used for food purposes. If the mixture gets on the skin, it is immediately cleaned with denatured alcohol or white vinegar; it is not allowed to harden on the skin.
The room must be provided with good ventilation.
Flow calculation
The paint consumption for self-leveling floors is indicated on the packaging and is calculated per 1 square meter. Accordingly, to find out how much material is needed, you need to calculate the area, and also decide how many layers will be applied to the floor.
When calculating the area, all recesses and recesses are taken into account; if the room is complex in structure, then it is divided into several zones, and then their areas are summed up. The average consumption, which is usually equal to 1 mm per 1.5 kg (the exact figure is indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging), is multiplied by the layer thickness and the area of the room.
When calculating the area, all recesses and recesses are taken into account.
Can I use a spray gun?
A spray gun simplifies many types of painting work and saves paint. But in the case of working with epoxy enamel, its use is impractical. After all, enamel is distinguished by its rapid rate of hardening, so it can simply ruin the device itself.
Therefore, it is better to paint with a roller or brush. After painting, you can immediately throw them away; they will become unusable.
It is better to paint with a roller or brush.
Applying paint to the surface
First, a primer mixture is applied to the surface; it serves to improve adhesion to the material. After complete drying, which takes 24 hours. Immediately before painting, the two components of epoxy (hardener and resin) are mixed, the proportions are indicated on the packaging, you must strictly adhere to them. Mix thoroughly, bringing the composition to homogeneity.
The paint should be applied with a roller or brush; the first layer will be rough. Typically, at least two layers are applied, and you can proceed to applying the second after a day.
Before the final layer, chips are scattered, which are standardly included with the epoxy. Polymerization occurs after 24 hours, and final drying takes 7 days.
Typically, at least two layers are applied, and you can proceed to applying the second after a day.
Operating rules
Epoxy resin is a synthetic polymer. When combined with a hardener, a thermochemical reaction occurs, releasing a large amount of heat. Therefore, you need to work with two-component epoxy paints carefully, always following safety rules:
- Use special clothing when preparing and applying paint - gloves, overalls and a respirator are required. It's nice to have glasses too.
- Use special sticks to connect the composition. Never use food utensils.
- If paint does get on your skin, remove it immediately with denatured alcohol or wash with warm water and soap. If the composition hardens, it will be difficult to remove.
- Provide ventilation - open a window in the room where painting is carried out.
- Store cans of paint and hardener at a temperature not exceeding 40°C, away from heat sources and sunlight.
Important! Before painting, it is necessary to carry out a series of works to remove the old coating, clean and degrease the surface. If there are obvious chips and potholes, they must be repaired.
Surface protection and care
Cleaning the self-leveling floor is easy, and it is permissible to use vacuum cleaners, mops, including steam mops. Due to its good wear resistance, this coating can withstand the effects of many detergents. Moreover, the absence of joints allows cleaning quickly and without problems. You can periodically apply wax or polish to prevent scratches.
Due to its good wear resistance, this coating can withstand exposure to many detergents.
Coating a concrete floor with epoxy is easy. Following safety measures and carefully preparing the surface will allow you to obtain a beautiful and stable coating that will last for a long time.
Metal painting
Two-component epoxy paint for metal provides a durable and flexible coating with a high level of adhesion to a variety of metal surfaces. The painted base is protected from moisture penetration and becomes resistant to corrosion and chemicals.
When the film experiences mechanical action, it does not tear, but stretches, followed by restoration of its appearance after deformation. A special advantage of the material is its non-flammability. Therefore, paint is used when processing electrical devices, exhibiting protective properties against overheating.
An important disadvantage of this epoxy is its exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the length of the drying period.
Apply paintwork with a brush or spray, as shown in the photo of epoxy paint. The surface must first be cleaned of dirt, stains, and rust. The use of solvent is not recommended as it impairs performance.
When carrying out work involving painting metal, as well as concrete and other substrates, the following rules must be observed:
- use special clothing and protective equipment;
- for mixing, take wooden sticks;
- provide ventilation of the room;
- if the composition gets on the skin, rinse it off as quickly as possible;
- the material is stored in dark places at temperatures below 40 degrees.
The use of epoxy coatings ensures high-quality painting of a variety of surfaces. However, epoxy is quite expensive and requires compliance with safety precautions. You need to buy it in specialized stores, where the quality of the material and compliance with storage conditions are guaranteed.
