Key consideration for installation of an epoxy flooring system
Epoxy flooring systems are well suited to most industrial applications, particularly where hygiene, chemical and/or abrasion resistance is important. However, there are several key factors to consider, to ensure a successful project.
Product selection
Using the correct system to get the surface finish you want is critical to ensure that you meet your client’s expectations for their application. When choosing a system, factors such as chemical exposure, anticipated traffic over the surface and the service and operating conditions determine the specific product selection and the installation thickness of the compound. For example, some products, such as the TAL EpoxyFloor SL range offer different formulations for different thickness of the coating (SL1, SL2, SL3), and TAL EpoxyFloor TF is designed for high abrasion and chemical resistance.
Surface preparation
As with most floor coverings, the strength, quality and integrity of the substrate, as well as the design of it, combined with a thorough floor inspection, all form part of an important process that determines the success of the flooring system. Additionally, the right surface preparation and primer determine the long-term success of the installation.
If the epoxy system doesn’t chemically bond to the substrate, then cracking, peeling and delamination can occur. For an epoxy to successfully bond onto the substrate, it must be a) free of all contamination, and b) properly prepared. When installing epoxy flooring over old surfaces contaminated with oil, grease etc, the surface may need to be chemically stripped or degreased, followed by mechanical abrasion to prepare it properly for installation of an epoxy flooring system.
In cases where the substrate is weaker than 30MPa, there could be delamination of the resin flooring system due to a failure within the substrate itself. Unbonded or weak concrete should be removed and made good with TAL Slabpatch before applying the epoxy-resin.
Installation pitfalls
Priming is an important factor when installing an epoxy floor covering. Where no, or an incorrect primer has been applied, excess moisture or liquids can build up on the underside of the epoxy flooring system. As this moisture is unable to evaporate, or pass through the epoxy resin, it can cause a ‘blistering’ effect on the surface. A moisture tolerant primer and/or moisture or vapour barrier such as TAL VaporStop HB is therefore an important part of a well-planned multi-level system.
Changes in temperature on site during application, or an excessively porous substrate can result in air being trapped in the primer and the epoxy flooring system. When this entrapped air rises, it will cause a bubble in the surface finish. This is why spike-rolling the compound is so important.
Installation of epoxy resin flooring systems need to be carefully planned and effectively managed. In addition to the factors mentioned above, careful attention must be given to the correct mixing of components, batch sizes, ratios and the use of the correct installation tools and equipment.
For further information on epoxy flooring system, or for bespoke methods and materials specifications for your next project, contact the TAL technical advice centre on 0860 000 TAL (825) or email.
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