A local business owner called me and asked me to stop by his company for an epoxy flooring quote. While we were there, he assumed to know everything and anything about epoxy paint. Well Mr. Businessman, this blog post is for you. Indeed, there are different types of epoxy paint.
There are basically three types of epoxies. The epoxies are categorized by the percentage of “solids” or epoxy they contain.
100 percent solid epoxy is the strongest and most durable epoxy. It’s highly favorable and used in industrial and warehouse settings. It handles the harshest and toughest types of traffic and wear and tear. Although this is the most durable epoxy, it’s also the most expensive and difficult to apply. 100 percent solid epoxy is very toxic and flammable. It should only be applied by professionals.
Solvent based epoxy is the most popular epoxy, mainly due to the large variety of colors offered. It contains 50 percent solids combined with a chemical solvent.The pricing is moderate and is usually applied in commercial and residential outdoor areas. The solvent based epoxy is also highly toxic and flammable, so it should only be handled and applied by seasoned professionals.
Like solvent based epoxy, water based epoxy is also 50 percent solids, but it’s combined with water. Because it’s water based, it’s virtually odorless and non flammable. Water based epoxy is most favorable and recommended for all interior needs. It comes in a variety of colors and textures. It’s the most affordable epoxy paint and is usually found at your local home improvement store. Water based epoxies are typically not as durable as the other epoxies but are strong enough for residential needs. They are very user friendly and can be applied by an unprofessional.
Regardless of the project, epoxies are the best applications to use when your trying to protect and beautify concrete. Some advantages are:
- Durable Bond
- Lasting Adhesion
- Waterproof and Rustproof
- Oil, Acid, and Salt Resistance
- Temperature Resistant
- Nontoxic (once dry)
- Fairly Inexpensive
- Reduced Maintenance Costs
So Mr. Businessman, I hope you were informed and educated on the different types of epoxy. Whether the epoxy is affordable or expensive, the price tag doesn’t indicate if it’s an ideal epoxy for your project. Please contact your local epoxy expert to be advised on what product will best beautify and protect your space.
