How Does Epoxy Flooring Peel Over Time?

How does epoxy flooring peel over time? There are several conditions that may cause the epoxy to peel over time. In this article, we'll look at some of the most common reasons and solutions. We'll also discuss acid etching and profiling. You'll want to follow these steps to avoid this problem. In the end, you'll have a beautiful floor that lasts for many years!

Conditions that Cause Epoxy Flooring to Peel

In general, conditions that cause epoxy flooring to peel over time are not related to the coating itself. These problems can be caused by improper preparation, which can result in bubbles and blisters. There are several factors to consider before applying an epoxy floor. Proper preparation is crucial to a long-lasting finish, so it's best to use a professional.

A qualified epoxy floor applicator will first assess the subsurface conditions, mix the correct resin and hardener ratio, and ensure proper air entrainment. In addition, unqualified individuals are less likely to apply the coating properly.

One of the reasons why epoxy coatings peel is due to poor preparation. The surface must be clean and porous to adhere to the coating properly. If it's not, the epoxy coating will just peel away with the concrete. Poor quality concrete slabs may be the cause of peeling epoxy. Poorly-mixed concrete, improper curing, or poor workmanship could all contribute to this problem.

Besides being easy to install, epoxy flooring is extremely durable. The chemical compounds in it create a floor that resists shock and heat while also being aesthetically pleasing. In addition, the product can be coated with an anti-slip coating to prevent slipping and falls. Epoxy flooring is an excellent solution for companies in a range of industries, including meat and poultry, electronics, and pharmaceutical.

Acid Etching

Several factors contribute to the peeling and cracking of epoxy flooring. The first is moisture. If water is allowed to sit on the surface of the concrete slab, the epoxy will not adhere to the surface. Another factor is improper floor neutralization. Fortunately, there are several solutions to the problem.

Acid etching can cause your flooring to peel over time, so use the right product to get a smooth surface. To prevent etching, you need to use a cleaner that contains a mild acid. Make sure to use a neutralizing solution for spills or stains. If you do get any acid on your floors, neutralizing them with a neutralizing solution is crucial.

Another cause of epoxy peeling is improper floor preparation. If you do not prepare the concrete floor properly, the epoxy will not adhere to it. In addition to being too dirty, the concrete floor may have been acid etched and cannot be properly prepared. This may have also caused loose concrete dust to sit on top of the floor. These two conditions can prevent the epoxy from properly bonding with the concrete. As a result, the epoxy will peel off soon after applying it.

Profiling

The process of profiling your epoxy flooring requires a certain level of expertise, a skill that is best acquired by a professional. The most important aspect of this process is proper concrete preparation. Poorly prepared concrete is one of the major reasons why epoxy floors fail. Acid etching is the process of opening the concrete pores to create a rougher surface. This type of surface profile is essential for coatings that are thicker than paint.

For a proper epoxy coating, the concrete surface must be roughened so that the coating will adhere properly. This process is often done with chemical or mechanical means. By profiling the surface of the concrete, you ensure that the coating will have something to "bite" onto. In addition to profiling, you must thoroughly clean your concrete to ensure that it is completely clean of contaminants. The coating will adhere to the surface better if the surface is clean and dry.

Temperature

If you are considering installing epoxy flooring on your garage floor, you should know that the chemical reaction of the floor's surface is affected by temperature. As the temperature of concrete decreases over time, the epoxy becomes weak and peels. Nevertheless, you can use rubber mats to protect your floor in case it peels over time. In adhesion tests, high temperatures will cause the floor to lift, but low temperatures won't.

In addition to humidity, the temperature can affect the curing process of your epoxy flooring. When you install your flooring, the temperature of the surrounding environment must be at a suitable level. Cold temperatures will cause your flooring to crack and peel, and the process may take longer. Ensure the floor's temperature remains around 77 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the installation process. If you install the flooring in an area with high humidity, it will take longer to cure.

A poorly prepared concrete surface is another cause for an epoxy floor to peel. The surface profile is important because it determines the mechanical bond between the epoxy and the concrete. Most epoxy has a CSP 1 or CSP 2 profile, and improper surface preparation will result in a peeling surface. Therefore, you must prepare your concrete surface properly. However, if you have a poorly prepared floor, you may have to use acid etching or grinding to get the right surface profile.

Cleaning

Scrubbing an epoxy floor is necessary if it starts to peel over time. Grit and sand are hard to detect, but they can damage the coating over time. To remove dirt and debris, use a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using steel wool or harsh chemicals. It is also important to avoid using vinegar or acid, as these can break down the epoxy catalyst. If the surface is damaged by rust, it is important to follow the instructions listed above to prevent further damage to the epoxy flooring.

Soap-based cleaners leave behind soap scum. These substances dull the gloss of the epoxy coating and can damage the anti-skid properties of the floor. Also, they are dangerously slippery when wet, and every garage floor will get wet from time to time. Using a neutralizing agent is highly recommended. To clean your flooring, use one-third cup of dishwashing soap diluted in four or five liters of water.

Another way to check whether your epoxy is peeling is to use a water-drop test. If a water drop falls onto the area, it will absorb the water and leave the area darker than the surrounding concrete. If the oil-stained area absorbs water, the epoxy will start to peel. In some cases, oil can also damage the surface of the floor. The solution to this problem depends on the type of oil and its location.

Once you know how epoxy can degrade and peel over time, you can take the steps to prevent this damage from happening. There is no reason to live with dull or cracked epoxy floors. Contact us for a quote today.