When you need to fill, bond, or repair a concrete surface, epoxy resin for concrete is the way to go. But you must use it correctly for it to create a strong adhesion. Two-part epoxies involve mixing a resin and hardener together in equal amounts to get the necessary chemical reaction.
Standard concrete is typically 4,000-5,000 psi. Whereas, epoxy systems from Simon Surfaces typically reach at or above 10,000 psi. It can be two-to-three times stronger than concrete. Hardness is a measure of a material's resistance to indentation.
The most obvious difference between the two is the intended use. Epoxy resins are meant for coating applications whereas casting resins are meant for casting applications such as molds, figurines, & jewelry. However, that is not to say that either would not work for their opposite intended uses, but more on that later.
To a lot of people, that probably sounds like a bunch of scientific words - don't worry, it's not too complicated. In layman's terms, Resin is a thick liquid-like material that can be used to pour over concrete. And when a homeowner opts for a resin overlay, there are a few factors that make this investment worthwhile.
The longevity of an epoxy floor system will vary based on thickness, use and maintenance. Typically, epoxy floors last between 10 and 20 years; much longer than a painted concrete floor, which will chip and wear quickly in high-traffic areas.
Concrete floor sealer
When we talk about sealers, we're referring to either an acrylic-resin sealer, or a penetrative sealer such as a silane or siliconate.
Epoxy resin for concrete
This product is very easy to apply and dries quickly, making it an excellent choice for many projects. A wide range of colors and finishes are available for epoxy, allowing you to find the perfect match for any space. It is highly durable and can even conceal cracks.
If you are laying a Resin Bonded surface onto concrete, a primer is recommended to ensure a good bond to the surface for the resin bound and bonded finishes.
Epoxy resin also has a much stronger bonding strength than polyester resins. Epoxy resin is ideal for most fiberglass repairs that are not using gelcoat as the final layer. This is because epoxy cures well in thin layers. Polyester does not cure well in thin layers.
So, what's the difference between resin and epoxy? Epoxy is a specific type of two-part resin. Epoxy resins are the most commonly used type of resin for crafting and creating art with resin. They're perfect for resin beginners because they're the easiest to measure and mix.
If a sealer was previously used on the concrete (if water beads up on the surface), do not use epoxy. The sealer should be removed first by shot blasting. Previous coatings or paints should be removed before a new epoxy coating is applied.
Its advantages include a strong bond, durability, versatility, and resistance to chemicals. However, it also has disadvantages, such as a long curing time, messy application, potential harm to health, and higher cost compared to other adhesives.
Epoxy is one of the most durable floor coatings available for outdoor spaces. It's easy to install, lasts for a long time and is relatively inexpensive (especially compared to other outdoor flooring options). Plus, this floor coating is perfect for pool decks and patios thanks to its waterproof features.
Inadequate Floor Preparation
For concrete to fully accept epoxy, the pores must be fully open and ready to bond. This is best accomplished through diamond grinding of the concrete surface. Usually it's not enough to just sweep and wash the floor. Every square inch must be acid etched or ground, then all dust removed.
Phenolic epoxy is exceptionally resistant and durable, and it is able to withstand even the most corrosive chemicals. However, it requires heat during the curing process, so it takes a bit of effort to apply. Novolac epoxy is the most durable and resistant resin available, so it is the best choice for outdoor surfaces.
E1000 Epoxy Concrete Repair Kits are designed to repair, patch (cracks, spalling, potholes) and protect old and new concrete in the most aggressive Industrial and Commercial Environments.
The mechanical properties of epoxy resin concrete are significantly improved compared to ordinary concrete, and its tensile strength, compressive strength, and shear strength are all higher than those of ordinary concrete.
A resin-bound system should also be left to cure on the concrete for at least 7 days. Once it is completed, the resin driveway should be ready for pedestrian traffic after eight hours, and vehicles can be parked on it after twenty-four hours.
Firstly: Is the existing concrete surface in structurally sound condition? If there are gaping cracks then it's probably not a good idea to place a mixture of resin over the top. If you do – the newly laid resin surface will just weaken and crack in the same areas as the concrete sub base underneath!
Water Based Epoxy resin can be used where concrete or masonry requires waterproofing and protection. It is applied in the same way as ordinary emulsion paint with the added benefit of application in damp conditions. Once dried Water Based Epoxy leaves a tough, non toxic, waterproof, easy to clean surface.