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Basics of epoxy concrete paint
#1
Epoxy concrete paint is a 2-part coating system that cures by a chemical reaction rather than the evaporation of solvent/water. It results in an extremely tough film that is very abrasion and chemical resistant. With a solvent-free epoxy system, it is possible to apply the coating much thicker than solvent-borne systems. This allows for the cover-up of minor defects in the surface. The cons of epoxy are that it is very inflexible, which makes it very abrasion resistant. This poses a problem if you try to coat over a crack without stabilizing it first. If the substrate under the coating moves, the crack will reappear. Epoxies are not "breathable" either. This presents a problem if no vapor barrier was installed under the slab when it was poured. If moisture tries to move from inside the concrete to the outside through the coated surface, very high hydrostatic pressures will develop and make the coating detach from the concrete. This is when they flake, peel, and blister. You can test for water vapor transmission by taping a 1 ft. X 1 ft. square of plastic flat to the floor, making sure to tape all sides with no gaps. Leave it overnight, and condensation will develop under the plastic if vapor transmission is present. Be wary that sometimes the vapor transmission only appears when it is or has rained, so this is not a gauranteed test. A key to getting good results with epoxy coatings is surface preparation. Overkill is much better. You should clean/degrease, acid etch, and neutralize (baking soda in water) followed by at least one thorough clean water rinse. Allow the surface to dry completely (at least 12 hours) before coating. Work quickly, since the coating has a limited life span once the two components are mixed together. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

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