Peeling, bubbles and a sticky finish can have different causes. Before choosing a repair, establish what failed: the coating, the bond between layers or the concrete beneath it. A photograph can help start the conversation, but it cannot confirm the cause on its own.
For a garage, workshop or commercial floor, the useful first step is an assessment of the existing surface and the conditions in which the coating was installed and used.
Preparation and the condition of the concrete
Oil, dust, old sealers and weak concrete can interfere with a new coating. The preparation needs to suit both the floor and the proposed system. Ask what will be removed, what repairs are included and how the prepared surface will be checked.
A new topcoat cannot strengthen a loose underlying layer. If pieces of concrete are coming away with the coating, that is information to record for the assessment. Learn more about shot blasting and concrete grinding.
Moisture and application conditions
Concrete that looks dry is not automatically ready to coat. Moisture testing, temperature, humidity and condensation conditions must be checked against the selected system’s requirements. A visual check alone does not establish suitability.
Tell the contractor about recurring damp patches, leaks or previous coating failures. Our guide to concrete moisture and flake floors explains the questions to ask before installation.
Primer, substrate and coating compatibility
The proposed system should identify its permitted substrates and preparation requirements. An existing painted floor, a concrete slab and a flexible substrate should not automatically receive the same treatment.
Follow the specified priming procedure. Whether a separate primer product is needed depends on the system; the word “epoxy” alone is not a complete specification. Ask for the names of all proposed products and confirmation that the layers are compatible.
Mixing, recoating and return to use
Resin and hardener must be mixed in the product’s stated ratio. Mixing method, working time, recoat window and cure conditions also matter. Equal quantities, extra hardener or a universal next-day parking time should never be assumed.
The Sikafloor-261 CA data sheet illustrates how one manufacturer specifies these requirements. Use the current instructions for the products actually proposed for your floor.
Can a failing epoxy floor be recoated?
Sometimes a local repair or recoat is appropriate; other projects need removal and more extensive preparation. The decision should follow inspection. Ask the contractor to explain what can remain, what must be removed and how the cause of the problem will be addressed.
Before arranging an assessment, gather:
- Wide photographs and close-ups of the affected areas.
- The approximate age of the coating and when the problem appeared.
- Available product names, installation records and care instructions.
- Details of dampness, spills, cleaning products and everyday use.
- Your project city, floor area and access requirements.
Discuss your floor with WCC
Planning a repair in Metro Vancouver or the Lower Mainland? Request a flooring assessment and quote or call 604-922-9200. Include photos and a short description so we can discuss the next step.