Using The Flake System as a new finish or replacement of old finishes on Concrete

Some of the more common causes of leakage in concrete structures tend to be:

• Issues with concrete placement
• Poor quality workmanship
• Extreme weather conditions
• Cold joints triggered by delays between different concrete pours
• Overdosing of admixtures
• Honeycombing (happens when joints of formwork become loose or insufficient compaction of concrete)

  That said, to repair the leakage, many construction engineers do recommend hacking. Hacking is the process of chiseling or indenting the concrete surface so that it roughens and forms the required mechanical bond strength between the plaster and structure.

  However, if you are planning to replace your concrete floor or existing tiled surface, installing an epoxy flake coating would enhance the area with a modernised look while guaranteeing the longevity of your floor at the same time.

  What is the epoxy flake system?

  A popular choice of technique for concrete repairs, epoxy flooring comprises coloured flake and chip materials that are combined with the epoxy to generate a unique, multi-coloured finish. A primer is first applied onto the substrates and then coloured flakes are broadcast onto the primer. Excess flakes are then removed and a final epoxy top coat is applied onto the colour flakes layer. Given that epoxy is a thermoset plastic substance, it can deliver superior resistance in extreme temperature conditions, whether hot or cold.

  What are the benefits of using an epoxy flake flooring system?

  Durability and strength

  Epoxy floors go beyond just aesthetics and are built to last. They also provide a strong barrier over the concrete substrate they are applied to. This eventually results in increased scratch-proof capability while also being able to withstand heavy loads.

  Low maintenance and cleaning

  By nature, epoxy floorings are non-porous and therefore do not allow dirt, bacteria, cracks, creases, and debris to form or collect. As a result, it trims down on regular cleaning and optimises a minimal amount of maintenance. Also free from allergens, cleaning is easy and usually done with water using a hose or mop and if necessary with mild cleaners.

  Customisable

  Flakes come in numerous colours, textures, and designs. Installed using epoxy floor coatings, flake systems with beautiful textures can be custom-fit to achieve optimal appearance and texture qualities and match any décor. This type of unique flexibility allows you to choose from a variety of textures and helps with preventing slippage and potential accidents. The textures can also withstand different climatic conditions, especially in the case of bathrooms, where water and microbe development prevail.

  Buy the E.MIX Epoxy Flakes System from Saint Gobain

  Our E.MIX epoxy flakes system is slip-resistant and solvent-free while creating an attractive floor finish thanks to its aesthetics. The chemicals integrated are proven to be free from any environmental hazard with fast curability. If you are interested in knowing more about our products for your flooring project, give us a call on 63308288 or visit our website today!