Epoxy floors are known for their glossy finish and their durability. But like everything else in the world, if not treated properly or not installed properly, it will end up damaged and worn. A lot of people look at epoxy flooring as a more popular DIY flooring solution; therefore, they install it themselves, but doing this will, more often than not, lead to costly mistakes or improper application.
In this blog, we will recap the issues you can come across when you put down epoxy flooring. We have already listed the most common issues in a previous article, but here we will tackle what actually can be done about the issues once they arise.
Problem #1: Peeling and Flaking
There is nothing more annoying than watching your new epoxy floor start to peel after only a month or two of use. The reason for this peeling is because it was badly installed in the first place. If your epoxy isn’t adhering properly to your concrete, the epoxy will lift off and peel away.
If you notice moisture beneath the coating or oil stains on the surface, these will prevent the epoxy from bonding. It’s very important, if you have a moisture issue, the source of the water must be addressed before starting installing your epoxy, even if you clean up the visible water.
When the coating starts to peel, it won’t stop. The solution to this is professional resurfacing. Jersey Epoxy uses industrial grinders to remove any loose or flaking areas and prepare the surface for a new, solid bond. The result is a flawless, long-lasting finish that won’t lift or separate.
Problem #2: Bubbles and Air Pockets
If your epoxy floor looks like it is blistering or if you can see small air pockets under the top coat, that means there is a trapped air problem beneath the coating. A layer of bubbles forms when the epoxy is mixed too quickly; it's a bit like when you put a protection layer on your iPhone quickly and it's not aligned, you will see big bubbles under the screen protector. If air is introduced into the compound, it will cause a bumpy or uneven surface.
These imperfections will certainly ruin the smooth, shiny finish that many people choose epoxy for. If you notice the bubbles during installation, you may be able to save it by using heat from a heat gun or hairdryer. The heat brings the air to the surface and essentially “pops” the bubbles. Once the epoxy has hardened and cured, a professional flooring installer is needed to handle the repair. The surface will be sanded to remove the bubbles, and then a new layer of epoxy is added using a commercial-grade mixing system to ensure a bubble-free finish.
Problem #3: Uneven Coating or Pooling
If the epoxy was uneven when the coating was applied, you will get areas that have a thicker covering and areas with a thinner coating, so your flooring will look all wrong. This problem happens if the compound is spread inconsistently across the floor. Epoxy is self-leveling to a degree, but if the ratio is off (epoxy to hardening), it won’t be able to spread out and cover the area uniformly. You will come back the next day after you installed it and notice dull patches or thick spots; it may take a few days or months to notice it sometimes, but if your installation was uneven, then you will also start to notice weak points where the coating will eventually crack and break away.
Jersey Epoxy, your local experts in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, make certain that the installation has an even coverage by using specialized tools and techniques to control thickness, and this leads to an even spread. The surface is measured and leveled before and during application, to make sure that the final result is smooth and durable across every inch.
Problem #4: Discoloration or Yellowing
One of the biggest drawbacks to epoxy floor coatings is that they can yellow over time when exposed to UV rays. Epoxy is not UV rays resistant, and once they begin fading, the discoloration is permanent and makes your floors look dated or neglected.
But worry not, because Jersey Epoxy has the solution. We use UV-stable, high-grade epoxy coatings that resist discoloration, so consider using a professional team to handle your resurfacing project for optimal durability and color protection.
Why DIY Fixes Don’t Last on Epoxy Floors
If you are a handy person, it will be tempting to grab a patch or repair kit to try and fix your epoxy problem. Unfortunately, most DIY fixes only cover up the symptoms of a larger problem rather than addressing the underlying cause.
For example:
- Applying a new layer of epoxy over peeling epoxy won’t bond properly.
- Patching bubbles or cracks won’t fix the poor curing or moisture issues.
- Using cheap epoxy products will only result in yellowing and chipping.
Without proper tools like diamond grinders and industrial-grade mixers, DIY epoxy repairs simply won’t last. The result is wasted time and money on a floor that will only fail again in a few months. It is far more beneficial to hire a professional epoxy flooring contractor.
How Jersey Epoxy Fixes and Prevents These Problems
When you hire Jersey Epoxy, you are getting professional-grade protection, precision, and peace of mind. Here’s what sets our process apart from competitors:
- Expert Surface Preparation
- Premium Materials
- Precision Installation
- Custom Solutions
- Seamless Resurfacing
A successful epoxy installation needs proper preparation. The first thing we do is mechanically grind the concrete to remove old coatings or old dirt, ensuring perfect adhesion for the new layer.
We use only industrial-grade, UV-resistant, and moisture-tolerant epoxy systems. These products outperform the typical store-bought kits.
We then measure the moisture levels and check the floor for humidity; any leftover moisture will cause the coating to not adhere. The curing time of the coating also needs to be carefully controlled for an even and uniform finish.
All different types of surfaces, garages and basements to commercial warehouses, they all have their unique challenges. A garage will often crack easier because of heavy usage, and basements often flood or have dampness. Whatever the circumstance is, we are on it.
If your old epoxy is peeling or discolored, we will resurface it quickly without tearing out the old concrete; it's not a big deal. Your floor will look brand new with a professionally laid coating of epoxy to strengthen and shine your floor.
From Botched DIY to Professional Finish
Jersey Epoxy helps countless homeowners and businesses recover from DIY epoxy disasters. Floors that were once patchy or flaking are now covered with a glass-like finish that’s durable and also easy to clean.
Now that you understand the ins and outs of common epoxy flooring problems, you also know that Jersey Epoxy is the best team to help you overcome your flooring woes.
With professional-grade materials, and meticulous prep, to say nothing of years of experience, Jersey Epoxy will change your floor from its peeling layer to a high-performance surface which will last.
If your epoxy floor is peeling, or cracking, just give Jersey Epoxy a call at (877) 376-9965. We will evaluate your flooring and find the perfect solutions for your flooring that will last for years.