Epoxy flooring is a specially designed, two-part mixture that is designed to go over a concrete base. It consists of resin and a hardener. When the two compounds combine they harden surprisingly quickly to create a strong, durable, and stain-resistant flooring.
Common myths about epoxy floor coatings
Epoxy flooring has been used in commercial applications for many years. More recently, there has been a massive increase in the number of people using epoxy floor coatings in residential properties. Naturally, this has led to the perpetuation of a variety of myths. Here are the most common ones.
It can be painted on
This is partially true. Epoxy flooring can be applied with rollers in a similar way to paint although you generally get a better finish if you have professionals using specialized equipment. This is because the specialized equipment mixes the compounds better and ensures it is evenly applied to your floor.
The myth part is that epoxy floors are effectively the same as paint. This is simply not true, paint chips and fades very quickly, leaving a great floor looking tired. Epoxy is much more durable and will stay looking great for years.
Epoxy is a commercial option
It is certainly true that epoxy has been used predominantly in commercial applications and that many of these use surprisingly drab colors. However, the simple truth is that these are the colors that commercial concerns choose. Epoxy flooring can actually be created in a huge array of colors, making it a practical and vibrant choice for almost any room in the house.
Alongside the wide variety of colors, epoxy flooring can be laid in patterns, to create a stunning and lasting effect.
Epoxy floors are slippery
It is obvious to see where this claim comes from, when the epoxy flooring dries it looks shiny and, therefore, slippery. However, this is a myth. Epoxy looks shiny and great but is actually very grippy. That is why it is used in so many commercial applications.
Alongside this a compound can be added to the epoxy flooring when it is laid to improve grip, even more, making it the perfect choice if you think the floor will often be wet.
Epoxy is expensive
This is technically true as epoxy is more expensive than painting your floor or even laying tiles. However, epoxy flooring is very durable and will outlast other types of flooring. That means the price needs to be looked at as an investment. Because it lasts significantly longer than other types of flooring you won’t need to replace it in a few years. This means that the long-term cost is cheaper than other flooring options.
Final thoughts
If you are considering epoxy flooring then don’t forget that it is stain-resistant, waterproof, and will protect your home from rising damp as it forms an impenetrable barrier.
Combine this with the fact that you can have it in almost any color or pattern you can think of and you will suddenly be wondering why you haven’t chosen epoxy flooring before.
