As it relates to the installation of new epoxy floors in industrial, commercial or manufacturing facilities, how thick is epoxy floor coating supposed to be is a frequent question. Its thickness depends largely on the type of business you operate, the current conditions of the floor and the aesthetic appeal you desire.
The thickness of epoxy floors will essentially differ from one floor to the next. Additionally, one of the biggest contributing factors to the thickness is the kind of coating that will be used.
Depending on the application, the thickness of polyurea-polyaspartic or epoxy typically ranges between .2 to 3 mils and 250 mils (1/4 inch) or thicker. Thinner epoxy floorings are usually used for new concrete or one that does not require a lot of repairs. Thicker coatings are used to rebuild and repair floors that are in poor shape.
Below are some different types of floor coatings and the anticipated thickness that will come about from a floor that is properly installed:
Epoxy Coating Thickness
The thickness of the epoxy coating is determined by the formulation of the chemical makeup. When the thickness of the coating is being decided on by manufacturers, its chemical makeup will be altered and adjusted to achieve varying levels of thickness. Single-layer coatings of standard epoxy are typically 1 to 2 mils thick. The final mil thickness will also depend on the manufacturer and the type of floor on which the epoxy is being installed. Some projects could require a thinner coating as opposed to a thick one.
Nail in Epoxy
Epoxies work tremendously as a basecoat and primer for many verticals. These include industrial, garage floors, food and beverage, auto body shops and warehouses.
Epoxy Mortar Thickness
These coatings are the most durable and thickest type of epoxies available. They typically comprise three components and are designed to withstand the harshest and toughest environments. The coatings can dry between 125 and 250 mils thick. Since an aggregate is always added, applying the coatings on these floors can be challenging. A trowel will be required to evenly spread the coating.
If a thin coating will not suffice because the floor is badly damaged, an epoxy mortar could be the ideal option. They are tremendously chemical and acid resistant and capable of having a 7800 psi compressive strength, which is roughly two times the strength of concrete.
Below are some advantages and disadvantages of using both thin and thick epoxy coatings:
Thin Coatings
These coatings are remarkable for manufacturing and industrial areas that need a visual boost. They also make it easier to clean the floors. Thin epoxy coatings are installed quickly, which indicates the business will experience minimal downtime while the new flooring is being installed.
Pros
• Installed with very little down time
• There an option to use non-skid surfaces
• Remarkable for surfaces that just need to be free of dust
Cons
• Deep holes and blemishes cannot be repaired
• The concrete underneath could emerge because of scratches
Thick Coatings
Thick coatings are required for heavily damaged or eroded areas. These floors require considerable floor preparation since they have to be deeply anchored into the concrete to achieve optimum adhesion.
Pros
• Tremendously durable
• Able to support heavy equipment
• Remarkable for high-traffic areas
• Typically scratches will not penetrate to the concrete
Cons
• More layers of epoxy required
• Substantial floor preparation required
• Longer process of installation
Selecting the Right Flooring
Beginning the process of selecting epoxy flooring for a manufacturing or industrial business involves considering the nature of the business and assessing the floors. These floors can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the property. In addition, epoxy floors are long lasting and hard-wearing. However, choosing between a thick and thin coating can be challenging. As such, it would be a good idea to start the process by getting a free consultation from a reputable professional in the field.
