7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Epoxy Coatings in Factories

Floor topping epoxy coatings and floorings are a popular choice for industrial environments due to their durability, chemical resistance, and ease of maintenance. They provide a protective barrier against wear, tear, and chemical spills, making them ideal for factory floors, walls, and equipment. However, even with their many advantages, applying epoxy coatings and floorings can be challenging if proper techniques and precautions are not followed.

This article will discuss 7 common mistakes to avoid when applying epoxy coatings and floorings in factories. By understanding these pitfalls, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting epoxy coating application.

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inadequate Surface Preparation

• Dirt and Debris: Ensure the surface is completely clean of dirt, dust, grease, and oil. These contaminants can prevent the epoxy from adhering properly.
• Moisture: Ensure the surface is dry. Moisture can cause the epoxy to peel or blister.
• Old Coatings: If removing an existing coating, ensure it is completely removed. Any remaining residue can interfere with the adhesion of the new epoxy.

2. Incorrect Mixing Ratios

• Consistency: Following the manufacturer’s recommended mixing ratios is crucial for achieving the desired consistency and performance of the epoxy.
• Thorough Mixing: Ensure the components are mixed thoroughly to prevent uneven curing and potential defects.

3. Improper Application Techniques

• Roller or Brush: Use the appropriate application tool based on the coating’s viscosity and the desired finish.
• Even Application: Apply the epoxy in a smooth, even layer, avoiding excessive thickness or thin spots.
• Air Bubbles: Use a roller or squeegee to remove any air bubbles that may form during application.

4. Insufficient Curing Time

• Manufacturer’s Instructions: Allow the epoxy to cure for the specified amount of time according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Temperature and Humidity: Consider the temperature and humidity conditions, as they can affect curing time.

5. Overloading the Coating

• Weight Limits: Avoid placing heavy equipment or machinery on the epoxy coating before it has fully cured.
• Traffic: Restrict foot traffic or vehicular traffic on the coating until it has reached its recommended hardness.

6. Neglecting Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the epoxy coating regularly to remove dirt, debris, and spills.
• Repairing Damage: Address any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.

7. Failing to Consider Environmental Factors

• Temperature Extremes: Ensure the epoxy coating is suitable for the temperature range in your factory.
• Chemical Exposure: If the coating will be exposed to specific chemicals, choose an epoxy formulation that is resistant to those substances.

Epoxy Coatings by Sunanda Global

Sunanda Global is the best waterproofing company that provides a wide range of epoxy solutions that are suitable for various commercial and industrial settings. The following are some of the products

SUNEPOXY SL: Anti-static, conductive, self-leveling epoxy flooring system

SUNEPOXY SL is a high-performance, three-component epoxy-based self-leveling floor topping designed for durability and aesthetic appeal. It consists of a base, hardener, and quartz fillers, creating a smooth, monolithic surface that is both glossy and light-reflective. This self-leveling system is easy to apply and provides excellent resistance to a wide range of chemicals and abrasion, making it ideal for demanding environments. The floor surface is dense, impervious, and hygienic, available in various colors to enhance the working environment. This has a shelf life of 12 months when stored in a tightly sealed container at 25°C and is cleaned with thinner.

SUNEPOXY FLR HB: High-performance, high-build epoxy floor coating

SUNEPOXY FLR HB is a high-performance, hygienic coating designed for concrete and metal floors in environments such as production areas, workshops, food processing zones, hospitals, and schools. This chemical-resistant and spill-proof coating provides an abrasion-resistant, decorative finish that is suitable for covered areas not exposed to UV light. It offers superior adhesion to multiple surfaces, including concrete and metal, and is available in a wide range of attractive shades. This is applied as a relatively thin, high-build coating using brushes, rollers, or airless spray, ensuring a tough and durable surface that maintains hygiene and withstands wear.

SUNEPOXY EI: High breakdown voltage, high build, epoxy insulation coating

SUNEPOXY EI is a high-performance coating designed to offer superior protection in high voltage environments, such as substations, switchgear panels, VCBs, and battery rooms. It features high dielectric strength and insulation resistance, with a unique breakdown voltage of 34–37 KV (at 1000-1200 microns DFT) in air. This tough, durable coating provides excellent chemical resistance and is crucial for safeguarding against electrical leakages and associated human risks. For optimal adhesion, SUNEPOXY EI should be applied to clean, dry, and structurally sound concrete substrates, which must be free of contaminants and cured for at least 28 days if newly poured.

SUNCRETE PU MF: Polyurethane-concrete flooring system

SUNCRETE PU MF is a versatile, high-performance flooring solution ideal for demanding environments such as textile plants, food and beverage production, wastewater treatment facilities, pharmaceutical production, chemical plants, meat processing, and pulp and paper mills. Designed for application at a nominal thickness of 4-9 mm, this product offers excellent chemical and abrasion resistance, creating a dense, impervious, and seamless surface that is easy to clean. Its fast curing properties help minimize downtime, and it is available in a range of colors to enhance the working environment. For optimal performance, substrates should be dry and free from rising damp; if necessary, damp-proof membranes should be installed.

SUNCRETE PU HF: Polyurethane-concrete heavy-duty flooring system

SUNCRETE PU HF is a robust flooring solution tailored for demanding environments such as textile plants, food and beverage production, wastewater treatment facilities, electronic component manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, chemical plants, and meat processing facilities. Designed for application at a nominal thickness of 4-9 mm, this product offers exceptional chemical and abrasion resistance, ensuring a durable and easy-to-clean surface. Its fast curing time minimizes downtime, making it a practical choice for busy operations. Available in a range of colors, SUNCRETE PU HF enhances the working environment while requiring substrates to be dry and free from rising damp.

SUNCRETE PU AS: Anti-static, conductive polyurethane, aesthetic floor screed

SUNCRETE PU AS is an advanced flooring solution ideal for high-demand environments such as textile and film plants, food and beverage production, wastewater treatment facilities, pharmaceutical production, chemical plants, and meat processing facilities. This product offers excellent abrasion and impact resistance, creating a seamless, hygienic finish that is easy to clean. It features fast curing, which minimizes downtime, and is solvent-free with low odor during installation. For optimal performance, SUNCRETE PU AS should be applied to sound, clean, and dry surfaces, ensuring maximum bond strength between the substrate and the flooring system by removing all dust and debris prior to application.

SUNEPOXY AL: Two-component, solvent-free, aluminium epoxy coating

SUNEPOXY AL is a robust, hygienic, and chemical-resistant coating designed for steel tanks, concrete, and steel columns. It provides exceptional anti-corrosive protection, making it ideal for industrial, coastal, and offshore environments, as well as pulp and paper plants. The coating offers excellent corrosion and abrasion resistance, along with superior adhesion to various surfaces, including concrete and metal. SUNEPOXY AL is solvent-free and non-toxic, making it safe for contact with foodstuff and potable water. Additionally, it is resistant to mold growth, ensuring long-lasting durability in challenging conditions. This combination of features makes SUNEPOXY AL an ideal choice for various industrial applications.

In conclusion, epoxy coatings and floorings play a crucial role in providing protection against wear, tear, chemicals, and corrosion. Sunanda Global, the best waterproofing company, offers a wide range of comprehensive solutions, including tile adhesive, waterproofing admixtures, polyurethane coatings, and more. 

With market-driven research and expert knowledge, we have waterproofing contractors in Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Hyderabad and many other prominent cities, ensuring our services are accessible to you. Contact us today to explore how we can meet your waterproofing needs.