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How to Identify Common Epoxy Flooring Problems on Concrete

Epoxy is one of the best floor finishes for commercial and residential buildings. Since epoxy is durable and long-lasting, it’s in high demand. Epoxy floors are an affordable, long-term option; however, floor problems occur, especially when not correctly prepared and applied.

When hiring professionals who are skilled at what they do, epoxy flooring can last for decades. Below, we’ll discuss the cost of epoxy floors, the common epoxy flooring problems on concrete, and how to prevent these problems from occurring. 

common epoxy flooring problems

What is Epoxy Floor Coating?

Epoxy is a product that is composed of epoxied resin and polyamine hardeners. It must have resin to give epoxy flooring its finish with depth and color. The hardener provides the epoxy flooring its strength.

When professionals apply epoxy to a concrete floor, it does not dry like paint; it cures. During the curing process, it creates a polymer structure that gives epoxy flooring durability and strength during the curing process. If a professional correctly prepares and applies an epoxy floor, it can last long.

When correctly applied, epoxy flooring has the following:

  • Durability and sturdiness
  • Resistant to damage
  • Easy maintenance
  • Come in a wide range of colors
  • Fast curing
  • Cost-effective
  • Chemical-resistant 

6 Common Epoxy Flooring Problems on Concrete

As you continue reading below, we’ll discuss six common epoxy flooring problems on concrete. 

1. Peeling

One of the most common problems with epoxy floors is poor adhesion and peeling. This may be due to:

  • Poor surface preparation
  • Excessive moisture 
  • Contamination of material
  • Improper mixing

However, peeling and poor adhesion are mainly due to poor surface preparation. Excessive moisture is also the second most common reason for peeling due to moisture being on the substrates and vapor emissions. If you experience this within several months of installing your epoxy floors, it’s happening because of the surface saturation effect.

If you’re noticing a hollow sound coming from your epoxy floors, this is a sign you are dealing with poor adhesion. Epoxy has a low peel strength, and in circumstances when you’re dealing with poor adhesion, if you attempt to remove it on your own, you risk pulling a large portion of the floor.

Your epoxy floors could also be susceptible to humid conditions, which may also cause peeling. You can include a moisture barrier or use a dehumidifier to protect your epoxy floors from moisture. 

2. Air Bubbles

Air bubbles are also another common cause of epoxy flooring problems. Air bubbles can often appear when installed at high temperatures. When there are high temperatures, the heat can make the epoxy dry more upholstered, preventing you from covering the entire floor.

When you’ve encountered air bubbles, the structure can also affect the appearance of your epoxy flooring. At Jersey Epoxy, we use high-quality materials to provide you with a durable and long-lasting epoxy floor

3. Moisture

Moisture buildup can occur when there’s a substantial difference in the temperature of the epoxy material. After Diamond grinding, our professionals can make sure the floor is completely dry before applying the epoxy. Waiting at least twenty-four hours before the epoxy is applied is common.

If a professional applies the epoxy too soon, any moisture trapped in the concrete pores can rise and cause bubbles. In addition, moisture can create pressure that can cause the epoxy to separate the surface. You can conduct a moisture test to determine if the floor suits an epoxy coating. 

4. Discoloring

When installing epoxy floors, it’s essential to know that ultraviolet light can alter the color of your flooring. Discoloring is one of the main reasons why professionals don’t recommend DIY kits and to always consult a professional when installing epoxy floors.

Epoxy comes in various colors, so it’s essential to hire a professional to ensure it’s applied correctly. 

5. Improper Curing

When improper curing occurs, this may be due to too little hardener, improper mixing, or ambient temperature. Using too little hardener can result in a soft, spongy floor that can lead to problems such as delamination and cracking.

When adequately mixed, epoxy and the hardener can lead to good chemical bonding and curing. To ensure proper mixing, electric mixers provide a better blend. If the temperature is too cold or too hot, this can slow down or completely stop the curing process. 

6. Film and Dullness

An effect known as amine blush can occur if the humidity in a room is too high. Amine blush can cause your epoxy floors to look dull and cloudy. The leading cause of dull floors is moisture, which the air, epoxy material, or epoxy substrate can cause.

When there is too much moisture present, it can cause your epoxy coating to re-emulsify, which creates a white film on the surface. 

How to Avoid Common Epoxy Flooring Problems on Concrete

While applying epoxy can seem like a tricky process, it’s best left up to professionals skilled in preparation and installation. While buying a DIY kit may seem tempting and cheaper, you can create costly damage. When applying epoxy floor coatings, our professionals at Jersey Epoxy are experts! 

Why You Should Choose Jersey Epoxy for Your Epoxy Flooring

At Jersey Epoxy, our professional epoxy floor applicators have the skill, training, and tools to apply an epoxy coating the first time correctly. Our experts know how to perfectly mix the hardener and resin at the correct ratio and the methods required to prevent lumps and air bubbles. In addition, we can anticipate humidity conditions to avoid dull and blistery floors.

Our professionals have over twenty years of experience, offer long warranties, and can complete the job within the same day. So if you require epoxy floors for your garage floor or business, reach out and give us a call today!

Contact Jersey Epoxy

If you have any questions or concerns, Contact Jersey Epoxy for your epoxy flooring needs today. 

Phone Number: 877-376-9965
Email: [email protected]