Bulk floor (epoxy) is considered one of the most optimal coatings. The material can be used both in residential and industrial premises. Bulk polymer epoxy floors are distinguished by their excellent appearance, which lasts for a fairly 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 will figure out how to make epoxy bulk floors with your own hands.
Basic coating properties
What are they? An epoxy-based bulk floor is often called "liquid linoleum." This is due to its appearance and application technology. Previously, this coating was used exclusively in industrial buildings. But over time, the bulk 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. Other advantages of the bulk floor (epoxy) include resistance to moisture, abrasion and fire, durability and hygiene. The undoubted advantage of the coating is the ease of installation. No special equipment or tools are required for pouring. You can apply epoxy self-leveling floors without even having special production skills. The whole process does not require a lot of time or effort. There is no need to spend large amounts of money on the purchase of material. Today, the bulk 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 the consistent execution of all actions. The final result of the work will largely depend on this. In this regard, even before the start of pouring, you should familiarize yourself with the basic recommendations for laying the coating.
Work with the base
Surface preparation is an integral part of almost any finish. Work with the base involves cleaning it from various contaminants, including dust, oil, garbage, and other industrial and household substances. To do this, you can use a powerful vacuum cleaner and various cleaning products - solvents for fats and oils and other compounds. If various defects are present on the surface, they must be repaired. In particular, this applies to various cracks and chips. They must be puttied. 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 level the base first. For this, a leveling mixture is used.
Primer
During installation, it is necessary to ensure maximum adhesion of the coating to the surface. To do this, before making a bulk 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. It is necessary to ensure that no puddles form on the base. A spray gun is used for spraying. 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 direct rake 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 compounds 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. Full drying of the first layer occurs within five to seven hours. The process can be accelerated by creating the optimal temperature regime in the room (12-25 degrees). Strength and beauty of the floor will increase if you create a second layer.
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.
additional 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 coating does not have an unpleasant odor during application or during operation. Care of the coating is also quite simple. It is enough to regularly wipe it with a damp cloth with a soap or gel solution. No need to use abrasive compounds. Dirt is easily removed from the surface. The polymer floor can be poured in any room of the apartment: in the bathroom, in the kitchen or in the hallway.
Finally
The article provides a brief instruction on 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, for quality performance of work, it is necessary to adhere to recommendations. In particular, this concerns the stage of preparation of the foundation. 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, the market offers a fairly wide range of these products, so that difficulties with the choice should not arise. When preparing the solution, follow the manufacturer's instructions. As a rule, all recommendations are indicated on the packaging.