Furnishings

Can an Epoxy Floor Finish Be Recoated?

Epoxy floor paint makes a durable, impermeable surface that’s harder than the concrete or wood substrate, but it does not last forever. You can recoat a epoxy finish that has lost its shine or otherwise been damaged, but you’ve got to correctly prepare the brand new epoxy won’t adhere. This preparation must include careful cleaning with a grease-cutting detergent to remove the thin, oily layer that has likely constructed, but might be invisible. That isn’t all, though. In addition, you need to etch the surface to make it tough enough to bond with the brand new finish.

Repair chips and holes in the floor. If you use fresh mortar, then allow the repairs to heal for at least 60 days prior to recoating with epoxy. You can also create the repairs using epoxy patching compound, which cures in a matter of days instead of weeks.

Mix a way of grease-cutting detergent and warm water to wash the floor. All-purpose household cleaner usually works for floors inside the house, but in case you’re recoating a concrete hardwood flooring, choose an industrial-grade product that could remove heavy-duty oil and grease deposits. Mop the floor with the detergent solution, and use a scrub brush to remove grease deposits.

Rent a floor buffer, screening attachment and also 80-grit sanding screen. Sand the floor using the buffer to etch the end. Use a pad sander using 80-grit sandpaper to etch in corners and other areas the buffer can’t reach.

Vacuum the floor and rub it down with a damp rag to remove all traces of aged finish leftover from sanding.

Mix the epoxy paint and hardener in line with the directions that come with the paint. Prepare only enough to cover the floor, because any remaining paint will likely be unusable.

Paint the edges of the floor using a paintbrush, and then use a paint roller and 3/8-inch nap roller skin to paint the principal area. If you’re adding shade flakes, roll up the floor in sections and also spread the flakes on each part as you finish it.

Allow the paint cure for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the product you’re using. Mix enough epoxy finish with hardener to cover the floor and spread it in precisely the same manner that you just spread the colour coat.

Allow the clear coat to cure for the recommended period, which is typically from 12 to 24 hours. If you’re coating the garage floor, wait 72 hours before driving your car on it.

See related