Epoxy flooring is the revolutionary flooring system that can be seen just about everywhere nowadays! From homes to businesses to industrial plants, epoxy flooring systems can benefit anyone.
However, you may be wondering, “What are the types of epoxy?” That’s where we come in!
In this short article, we’ll discuss what epoxy is and the different types that can be installed. Continue reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
What is Epoxy?
Epoxy flooring is a resinous flooring system that is exceptionally durable and long-lasting. It comes in many different styles and types. Epoxy can also be customized in myriad ways with an endless amount of patterns, colors, and textures. Epoxy flooring is highly resistant to many different chemicals and is waterproof! This sturdy flooring system can last for 25 years or more with proper maintenance and care.
There is a wide variety of styles for epoxy, but we’ll go over just a few of the more popular ones below:
Standard Epoxy
Standard epoxy is one of the most common varieties of epoxy flooring. It can be applied as a solid color or with a pattern. The pattern choices are nearly limitless when it comes to standard epoxy, if you can think of it, it can be done. Standard epoxy can be useful in virtually any setting, from your garage to retail stores to factories.
Metallic Epoxy
Metallic epoxy is a unique style of epoxy flooring that is used to create one-of-a-kind designs. By mixing metallic pigments into the resin as it’s poured, fantastic effects are achieved. This distinct floor coating comes in a broad spectrum of colors and can be used to create beautiful swirl designs or even mimic scenes from nature. Metallic epoxy can mimic flaming lava, crashing ocean waves, or even the sky dotted with clouds!
Decorative Flake Epoxy
Decorative flake epoxy is another form of epoxy that is highly popular in both the residential and commercial world. This epoxy style is created by layering acrylic chips over the epoxy and finishing it with a thin topcoat that allows the flakes to create texture on the floor. Both the flakes and the epoxy beneath come in many different colors. The acrylic chips are available in many different sizes, ranging from 1/16 to 1 inch, and can be broadcast loosely or entirely cover the floor.
Now that you’re familiar with epoxy and the various styles let’s take a look at the types of epoxy and their advantages!
The 3 Types of Epoxy Flooring
The three main types of epoxy are still in use today. These types of epoxy include solvent-based epoxy, water-based epoxy, and 100% solids epoxy. Every kind of epoxy comes with its own benefits. Here are the three types of epoxy:
Solvent-based Epoxy
As the name suggests, this type of epoxy is made using solvents. Solvent-based epoxy contains around 30 to 70% solids in its mixture. This type of epoxy flooring doesn’t see as much use today due to the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in its blend. However, solvent-based epoxy still sees some use in industrial settings. Out of all three types of epoxy, solvent-based is rarely used today.
Water-based Epoxy
Water-based epoxy is the type that’s most commonly found in DIY kits as it’s more user-friendly than both solvent-based and 100% solids epoxy. Although, it’s still used in professional installations frequently as a primer or sealer due to its thin consistency. Water-based epoxies give concrete a smooth, glossy finish while protecting it from stains, abrasions, and chemical damage.
100% Solids Epoxy
By far, the most popular professional epoxy flooring system is 100% solids epoxy. This is the most durable type of epoxy and the most highly recommended. When we say epoxy flooring can last more than 20 years, this is the type of epoxy referred to. It’s highly resistant to heavy foot traffic, vehicle traffic, abrasions, impacts, and chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Epoxy flooring is one of the most versatile, customizable flooring systems on the market. It comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns, textures, styles, and types. The three most popular styles of epoxy are standard, metallic, and decorative flake epoxy.
The three types of epoxy are solvent-based, water-based, and 100% solids epoxy. 100% solids epoxy is the most recommended type of epoxy by professional installers. This type of epoxy is the most durable, resistant, and long-lasting. It will last for more than 20 years with proper care and maintenance!
Now, you should know all you need about epoxy to make an educated decision concerning your next flooring project!
