Epoxy Flooring Systems with Stenciled Graphics and Clear Protective Coats

In some industrial and architectural epoxy flooring systems, stenciled graphics or epoxy striping are incorporated into the coating system. When this is done, clear epoxy coats may be applied over the graphics to encapsulate and protect the markings while adding additional film thickness and wear protection.

The following discussion outlines a typical installation approach and considerations for maintaining coating system integrity.

Typical Installation Sequence

A typical installation sequence may include:

1. Removal of the existing coating and proper preparation of the concrete substrate
2. Treatment of expansion joints prior to installation
3. Application of an oil-stop or penetrating primer
4. Application of the first epoxy body coat
5. Application of the second epoxy body coat
6. Application of stenciled graphics or striping using a high-quality epoxy coating compatible with the flooring system
7. Application of a clear epoxy topcoat
8. Application of a final clear epoxy topcoat incorporating slip-resistant aggregate

Clear epoxy topcoats are commonly used in these systems to encapsulate the graphics and provide additional film thickness and wear protection.

Graphics and Striping Materials

When graphics or striping are incorporated into an epoxy flooring system, they should be installed using a high-quality epoxy coating compatible with the surrounding flooring system.

Using lower-grade coatings, paints, or adhesive-backed graphics can introduce a weak interface within the flooring system. These materials may not bond chemically with the surrounding epoxy layers and can become a point of separation between coats.

For this reason, peel-and-stick graphics, decals, or incompatible coatings are generally not recommended when the graphics will be encapsulated beneath subsequent epoxy coats.

Using compatible epoxy materials for the graphics allows the layers to chemically bond and maintain the integrity of the overall flooring system.

Recoat Windows

Epoxy coatings rely on chemical adhesion between coats when recoated within the manufacturer’s recoat window. Depending on temperature and jobsite conditions, this window is typically within approximately 24 hours.

If additional coats are applied within the allowable recoat window, chemical bonding between layers is maintained.

If the recoat window is exceeded, the surface should be mechanically abraded (screened or sanded) and cleaned prior to applying additional coats to ensure proper adhesion.

When stencil graphics or striping are installed as part of the system, the installation sequence should be planned so that recoating occurs within the allowable window or proper surface preparation is performed before subsequent coats are applied.

Slip-Resistant Aggregate

Slip-resistant aggregate is typically incorporated into the final clear epoxy topcoat.

If a more uniform slip-resistant texture is desired, the aggregate can also be incorporated into both clear epoxy topcoats.

Coating Embedded Steel

Steel angles or steel components embedded in concrete floors may be coated as part of the epoxy flooring system provided proper surface preparation is performed.

The preferred method of preparation is abrasive blasting to near-white or gray metal.

When properly blasted, the steel may be primed with the same epoxy body or topcoat material used in the surrounding flooring system, allowing the coatings to integrate into a continuous system.

If abrasive blasting is not possible, mechanically abrading the steel and applying an aluminum-filled epoxy bonding primer can provide strong adhesion prior to applying the remaining epoxy coats.

Clear Coats Over Graphics

Clear epoxy coats are often used when graphics, striping, or decorative elements must be encapsulated within the flooring system.

Their purpose in these applications is primarily to protect the graphics and add film thickness rather than to change the chemical resistance or structural performance of the flooring system.

When used in this manner, clear epoxy coats are compatible with the overall system and provide durable protection for the embedded markings.

Installation Responsibility

Epoxy coating performance depends on proper surface preparation, installation procedures, and field conditions. Installers should follow manufacturer recommendations regarding surface preparation, recoat windows, and system components.

Proper mixing and installation is critical to the optimal success of all products.  See Installation Tips, Techdata, & MSDS for more details on our products.  Be sure to contact us with any questions and/or concerns that you have.

For more information please contact:

Epoxy.com
A Division of Epoxy Systems, Inc
A Vermont Corporation
USA

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