Why Does Installing Epoxy Flooring Require Chemicals?

A finished epoxy floor is breathtaking to look at. It’s perfectly smooth, bright and shiny. Of course, before you get to enjoy such as beautiful floor, professionals have to install it. The reason is that installing epoxy requires several strong chemicals. Why is this needed?

Why Concrete Needs To Be Deep Cleaned

The first chemical epoxy flooring pros use is a floor cleaner or degreaser. The purpose of this product is to deep clean the floor. Over the years, grease, dirt and oil leaks tend to soak into the concrete.

Grease and dirt create a kind of seal in the concrete that doesn’t let epoxy grab hold. For the floor to last ages and be strong, professionals have to get rid of those oil stains and dirt. The good news is that when they’re done, the concrete will look and smell completely clean.

What Etching Concrete Involves

The next step after cleaning is etching. This involves creating tiny pits in the surface of concrete, similar to the texture of rough sandpaper. This is needed because bare concrete develops a chalky film on the surface that must be removed.

In order to etch the floor, the installation team needs to apply an acid to the concrete. Carefully, sulfuric acid is spread onto the floor using a watering can or a mop.

This process helps the epoxy adhere correctly. It ensures your floor lasts — and stays shiny — for many years.

Why Epoxy Installation Is Perfectly Safe When a Pro Handles It

Professionals know how to handle the chemicals involved when installing epoxy flooring safely. Before applying the epoxy, all of these chemicals are sucked up and the floor is thoroughly rinsed with water.

After curing for about 24–48 hours, your new, clean and smooth epoxy floor is ready to be walked on. The whole family can enjoy it safe and sound right away. A fully cured epoxy floor doesn’t have any smell.