The benefits of epoxy are well known: it is an affordable, durable, and easy-to-use option. Yet there may come a time when you need to replace the old epoxy with new. For example, it could have been exposed to water and is no longer functional or your previous contractor might have used a low-quality epoxy and now you want to upgrade. In this article, we’ll talk about how to install new epoxy on a concrete floor surface.

What Tools Do I Need?

There are a few tools you will need before you start installing your new epoxy:

• Drop cloths
• Stiff bristled brush
• Buckets
• Enough hardener for the area of the floor is covered
• The epoxy resin of your choice (determined by temperature range and expected wear)
• Mixing stick or drill with a small bit on it to mix the ingredients
• Gloves/goggles for safety precautions
• Container for mixing hardener and epoxy resin – Plastic sheets to cover floors

Preparing TheSurface

The first step is preparing the surface. The area you are working on should be clean and dry. If there is any dust or dirt, it needs to be removed. Once that has been done, you need to remove any mold or mildew from the surface with a detergent solution and a scrub brush. To ensure that the surface is as clean as possible, it’s necessary to use an acid rinse for at least 20 minutes before moving on to the next step.

Mixing TheEpoxy 

The first step to replace old epoxy with new one is mixing the materials. The best way to do so is by following the instructions on your epoxy for providing a thicker coat. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection as well. To mix the materials, you will need a bucket and a stir stick, a drill with an attachment bit, and a plastic putty knife.

Applying TheEpoxy

The epoxy might come with a how-to instructional guide, so it is worth reviewing this before you get started. Generally, the first step will be to thoroughly clean the floor and remove any dirt, oil, or grease that might interfere with the adhesive.

Once you have cleaned the area, it is important to dry it. Moisture can ruin your new epoxy and create bubbles and other defects in the surface as it dries. You can use a squeegee for this step to ensure that all water has been removed from the surface before applying the epoxy.

Now you’ll apply the epoxy using a trowel and spread it evenly over your concrete surface. It is better to give yourself time to work on one section at a time rather than trying to do it all in one go. This will help avoid any errors like uneven surfaces or patches of epoxy on otherwise bare concrete.

Clean Up AndDrying

Before you get started, clean up the area of your floor where you plan to install the new epoxy. You can do this by scraping off the old epoxy and cleaning with a detergent. Be sure to use a mild detergent that won’t damage the floor. Once you have cleaned the surface, wipe it down to dry it. The surface must be completely dry before installing any new epoxy.