Bulk floor (epoxy) is considered one of the most optimal coatings. The material can be used both in residential and industrial premises. Self-leveling polymer epoxy floors are distinguished by their excellent appearance, which persists for a sufficiently long period. The service life of the coating is at least 10 years. In addition, the two-component epoxy self-leveling floor has excellent performance. Thanks to them, this coating is in no way inferior to other materials. Next, we'll figure out how to make epoxy self-leveling floors with your own hands.
Basic coating properties
What are they? An epoxy-based self-leveling floor is often referred to as "liquid linoleum". This is due to its appearance and application technology. Previously, such a coating was used exclusively in industrial buildings. But over time, self-leveling floor (epoxy) began to be laid in apartments. One of the main features of the coating is that after its application a perfectly even base is formed. For other benefits,which the self-leveling floor (epoxy) has, should include resistance to moisture, abrasion and fire, strength and hygiene. The undoubted advantage of the coating is the ease of its installation. Filling does not require any special equipment or tools. You can apply epoxy self-leveling floors with your own hands, even without special production skills. The whole process does not require much time or effort. There is no need to spend large sums of money to purchase material. Today, self-leveling floor (epoxy) is a coating that combines high quality and affordable cost. That is why it is so common.
Technology Features
Bulk floor (epoxy) is applied in several stages. Each stage has its own characteristics. The main task is to consistently perform all actions. The final result of the work will largely depend on this. In this regard, even before pouring, you should familiarize yourself with the basic recommendations for laying the coating.
Working with the base
Surface preparation is an integral part of almost any finish. Working with the base involves cleaning it from various contaminants, including dust, oil, debris, and other industrial and household substances. To do this, you can use a powerful vacuum cleaner and various cleaning agents - solvents for fats and oils and other compounds. If there are various defects on the surface, they must be eliminated. In particularthis applies to various cracks and chips. They must be sealed. In this case, the coating will not only lie correctly, but will also last for many years. If the differences are too large, it is recommended to pre-level the base. For this, a leveling compound is used.
Primer coat
During installation, it is necessary to ensure maximum adhesion of the coating to the surface. To do this, before making a self-leveling floor (epoxy), the base should be primed. The mixture is applied in several layers - their number will depend on the porosity of the surface. The primer is sprayed evenly over the surface. Care must be taken to ensure that no puddles form on the base. For spraying, a spray gun is used. With this tool, the primer is applied in thin layers and quickly.
Main layer
Before pouring, it is necessary to determine the degree of deviation of the base from the horizon. For this, a straight rail or level is used. In accordance with the data obtained, the thickness of the coating layer is determined. It is in the range of 2-10 mm. The first layer is poured onto the prepared base. Between the connections of different portions of the material must pass at least ten minutes. During this period, the mixture will dry out a little, and the joints will be suitable for processing and leveling. Complete drying of the first layer occurs within five to seven hours. The creation of an optimal temperature regime in the room (12-25 degrees) can speed up the process. The strength and beauty of the floor will increase if you create a secondlayer.
Decorative coating
Five to seven days after the second layer has dried, a special material is applied to the surface. Usually epoxy paint is used as a decorative coating. It not only decorates the surface, but also provides protection against mechanical and other aggressive influences. If necessary, after a certain time, you can update the decorative coating, thus preserving its appearance.
More information
It should be noted that the process of pouring a polymer floor does not require stopping other finishing or construction work in adjacent rooms. The components that are present in the composition of the material are completely harmless to humans and animals. The covering has no unpleasant smell neither in the course of drawing, nor during operation. Caring for the coating is also quite simple. It is enough to wipe it regularly with a damp cloth with a soapy or gel solution. There is no need to use abrasive compounds. Dirt from the surface is removed quite simply. The polymer floor can be poured in any room of the apartment: in the bathroom, in the kitchen or in the hallway.
In conclusion
The article provides brief instructions for creating a polymer floor covering. As you can see, the work does not require special knowledge or skills, sophisticated equipment or a large number of tools. The process is not complicated. However, in order to do a good job,adhere to the recommendations. In particular, this applies to the stage of preparation of the base. The strength and durability of the coating will depend on the thoroughness of this work. In addition, it is important to take care of high-quality polymer material for pouring. Today, a fairly wide range of these products is presented on the market, so it should not be difficult to choose. When preparing the solution, follow the manufacturer's instructions. As a rule, all recommendations are indicated on the package.
