Which Painting Techniques Work Best For Epoxy Resin Paint?
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Epoxy resin paint is one of the top choices to use on concrete floors. It’s hardwearing, long-lasting, and suitable for heavy traffic. It comes in a variety of colours and endures grease and oil spills.
However, for a durable, long lasting coat you need to:
a) Prep the surface in the right manner
b) Apply the paint correctly
c) Allow the paint to dry fully
Let’s look at this in more detail:
1) Cleaning & Etching
Regardless of the paint type, before application you need to clean the surface thoroughly. Depending on the condition of your floor ie, has it been painted previously or is it bare concrete, be ready to dedicate time to cleaning and degreasing the surface, etching it with acid, scrubbing, power washing, rinsing, and more. Once you are done cleaning, make sure to repair any cracks and holes that may affect the integrity of the painted surface.
2) Painting The Surface
If you want to achieve the best results, epoxy paint shouldn’t be sprayed. Results are unreliable and hardened resin can damage spraying equipment. While rolling and brushing take longer, they provide results closer to perfection for epoxy resin paint.
For your painting job, you’ll need the following:
- Epoxy resin paint
- Tape
- Roller tray
- Brushes (natural bristle preferred)
- Roller
- PPE
If you are painting a floor, you can use tape to mark the areas you don’t want to be touching. Mix the components (paint and catalyst) according to the supplier’s instructions. Pour the paint into the roller tray and use the brush to paint the perimeter in order not to get the paint on the walls. Then use the roller to paint the middle of the surface. Spread the paint in wide and even strokes. Keep stirring the paint in the tray and the bucket or can in order to make sure the ingredients stay well mixed.
- Tip #1: Ensure catalyst is mixed into paint thoroughly preferably a stirrer in a slow running drill for 2-3 minutes. Then allow to stand for 2-3 minuets
- Tip #2: It’s important to choose the best weather for painting. High humidity and direct sunshine should be avoided
3) Drying The Paint
You can achieve the best results by applying two coats of epoxy resin paint. Allow the first coat to dry according to the directions from the manufacturer. 24-72 hours is a normal curing time. You can start walking on a surface painted with epoxy resin paint in about 24 hours after applying the second coat. Heavy vehicle traffic is allowed after about four days.
Final Thoughts
The best painting technique for epoxy resin paint is brushing and rolling. It’s vital to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions about mixing ratios and drying time. For more information about painting floors, please download our free e-book The Ultimate Floor Paint Guide.
