When you invest in a home improvement project such as epoxy flooring, it’s essential to know the potential issues you may encounter and how to fix them. This is especially true with DIY epoxy installations, as this comes with a greater risk of mistakes. Many homeowners are left scrambling to figure out exactly how to fix their epoxy flooring when something goes wrong.
This article will cover some of the most common issues seen with epoxy flooring and the steps that can be taken to fix them. It will also cover the importance of professional installations and the drawbacks of choosing retail-grade DIY kits.
What are the Most Common Issues With Improper Epoxy Installation?
Though it’s not common for issues to form with epoxy applied by a professional, it’s not unheard of for mistakes to occur. Most often, it’s improper mixing or application of the epoxy that causes issues.
Poor adhesion to the substrate
When epoxy isn’t properly adhered to the substrate, it can cause bubbling, cracking, or peeling. This is caused by improper surface preparation, such as not using a primer or not roughening the surface enough. It can also be caused by using an unsuitable substrate (such as wood), or applying the epoxy too thin.
Discoloration and yellowing
Sometimes epoxies can discolor or become yellow over time. Generally, this is due to the UV exposure of an outdoor installation or improper curing and drying times. Another common cause is the epoxy being exposed to too much moisture or not using a high-grade epoxy system with UV protection.
Gummy surface texture
One issue that is particularly difficult to repair is when the epoxy has a gummy or tacky texture. This is usually caused by not allowing the epoxy to cure for long enough or using too much accelerator. It can also be caused by the surface temperature being too high during installation.
Peeling or cracking
Peeling or cracking is another common issue with improper epoxy installations. This is typically caused by improper mixing, not stirring the epoxy long enough, and/or applying it too thin. It can also be caused by a lack of adhesion to the substrate or foot traffic being too heavy on an epoxy floor that hasn’t fully cured.
How Can Epoxy Flooring Issues Be Fixed?
The exact steps to fix an issue with epoxy flooring will depend on the nature of the problem, but there are general methods that can be used.
For gummy or tacky surfaces, you will likely need to strip off all of the old epoxy material and start from scratch. For adhesion issues, it’s important to ensure the surface is properly prepared before reapplication, such as etching or priming the substrate. You may also need to add texture and roughness to any areas where the epoxy was previously applied.
For discoloration, yellowing, or UV exposure, you may need to sand down the surface and reapply epoxy with a higher UV protection rating. For peeling or cracking surfaces, you should be able to repair them by filling in any gaps with a patching compound and then applying more epoxy on top.
The Benefits of Professional Epoxy Floor Installations
No matter how careful you are, DIY epoxy floor installations come with a certain degree of risk. The best way to ensure that your epoxy floors will look good and last for years is to hire a professional installation service. Let’s look at some of the benefits of choosing a reputable installation service.
High-quality materials
Professional installers will use high-grade materials for your epoxy floors, which are designed to last and stand up to wear and tear.
Expert installation
Professional installers know exactly how to prepare the surface, mix the epoxies, and apply them correctly so that your floors will look great and last for years.
Time savings
Professional installers can complete the job in a fraction of the time it would take you to do it yourself, freeing up more of your valuable time.
Warranty protection
Most professional installers offer warranty protection that covers any issues that may arise with your epoxy flooring. This can give you added peace of mind knowing that the job is being done correctly and professionally.
Overall, the benefits of professional epoxy floor installations far outweigh any potential issues or risks associated with DIY projects. Professional installers will be able to ensure that your floors look great and last for years.
Call Us For a Free Epoxy Estimate Today
Epoxy Flooring Durham is the number one choice for all your epoxy flooring needs in Durham and the surrounding area. We are among the top-rated epoxy installation companies in the region and have years of experience installing floors for residential and commercial customers.
We offer free estimates on all our services, so don’t hesitate to give us a call today to get started on your project.