Epoxy resin coating is a mixture of polymer resin and hardener. When applied to concrete floors, epoxy resin creates a smooth, shiny surface, making the space brighter. The durable and visually stunning finish makes it suitable for most residential and commercial applications. 

If you are looking for the right type of flooring for your home, epoxy flooring should be your first choice. It is not affected by most chemicals and has antibacterial properties. It can also imitate the elegant feel of marble while maintaining the hardness of concrete.

Related: 5 quick tips for choosing a new floor

Epoxy coatings can be roughly divided into solvent-based, water-based and 100% solid epoxy resins. Recently, you can also find pre-colored or metallic coatings.

Solvent epoxy is the oldest type. It is a mixture of resin and high-concentration solvent-based curing agent. When allowed to evaporate after application, mixing the resin and curing agent will generate toxic vapors such as ammonia and carbon monoxide. To protect yourself from the effects of smoke, please wear a respirator during and after use.

Next, you have water-based epoxy resin. It produces the same gloss finish as solvent-based epoxy resins, but is soluble in water, so solvent hardeners are not required. It will not leave harmful fumes, but will form a strong, non-toxic, and waterproof surface.

Third, 100% solid epoxy resin does not need to be mixed with solvent or water. Compared with water-based coatings, it is also more resistant to abrasion and chemicals. However, due to its viscosity, you cannot apply it in a thin coating. It also dries quickly, so you need to work quickly when using it. It is best to let professionals handle this type of epoxy paint.

Finally, the metal epoxy floor coating. It is a multi-layer coating system containing metal additives. Use a roller or brush to apply metallic paint, then twist and turn to achieve the "vortex effect". "

Each type of floor has its advantages and disadvantages. To find out if epoxy is right for you, here is a quick overview of its pros and cons.

Aesthetics: The glossy finish of epoxy resin makes it particularly attractive. You can also try to use a variety of colors to match the design of the room you are applying.

Cost saving: Epoxy flooring is generally cheaper than other types of flooring, but how much cheaper? According to hipages, the cost of epoxy flooring ranges from A$30 to A$35 per square meter. Those who want decorative finishes need to spend about 80 to 100 Australian dollars per square meter. Compare this to vinyl tiles that sell for about 40 to 100 AUD per square meter or 90 to 125 AUD or more.

Wear resistance: The epoxy floor is very strong. It is resistant to oil, gas, bleach and other chemicals. If you spill a few drops of oil in the garage, you don't have to worry about getting them dirty. It also has the ability to resist bacteria and bacteria, so it is easy to clean. It is for these reasons that you usually find epoxy floors in medical institutions.

Service life: If used properly, the epoxy floor can be used for decades without cracking and peeling. It is also strong enough to withstand heavy traffic.

Semi-permanent: The longevity of epoxy resin is both a blessing and a curse. Removing and renewing the epoxy coating is an expensive and labor-intensive process.

The application of epoxy resin requires thorough preparation. Clean the concrete surface patiently to ensure that the paint adheres well.

You can buy do-it-yourself epoxy flooring kits from home improvement stores. They will include primers, epoxy resins and decorative flakes. If you prefer to purchase materials separately, here is a list of all the products and tools you need.

If you don’t like the idea of ​​scrubbing concrete and rolling paint yourself, it might be wise to hire a professional. Choose a contractor who has at least three coats of 100% epoxy resin and no volatile organic compounds (VOC). 

Get quotes from multiple contractors. You can also find a quote generator online.

If you are worried about staining your tiles with spaghetti sauce, epoxy is the perfect solution. It is resistant to most materials, making the kitchen easy to clean and mopping the floor.

You don't have to use decorative epoxy all the time. The cheapest gray finish is sufficient for garages or basements.

The use of epoxy resin coating makes bathroom cleaning a breeze. Be sure to use non-slip additives to make the surface safer when wet.

You can get the elegance and luxury of marble without paying high prices. Use a metallic epoxy coating in your living room and you can start using it.

The classic gray epoxy coating can even be used inside the house. With exposed bricks, it creates a charming modern industrial appearance.

Mix red with other colors to achieve this otherworldly lava-like effect.

Although epoxy coatings are traditionally used in garages and basements, now new epoxy resins can be used in other rooms in your home, such as kitchens or bathrooms. Instead of limiting your choices to tiles, wood and other traditional materials, try something new and unique. After the epoxy coating dries, you will impress your guests with the stunning glass-like floor.

Related: A beginner's guide to hard and soft floors

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