A quality epoxy floor application is never just about appearances. For long-term performance, your epoxy flooring contractor must be clear, methodical, and fully transparent about their process. That includes surface preparation, application methods, layer thickness, and site quality control.
At Ascoat, we make sure clients know exactly what to expect at each step of an epoxy flooring installation. Here’s what you should be asking about before any work begins.
Ask for a Clear Breakdown of the Application Steps
Before work starts, your contractor should explain the full application process, including the purpose and thickness of each layer.
It’s important to confirm whether the quoted system thickness matches what will be applied on site. Many clients are surprised to learn that a standard three-coat system is less than 1mm thick. For example:
Three-coat system
- Primer: 250 microns (0.25 mm)
- First coat: 250 microns
- Second coat: 250 microns
- Total: 750 microns or 0.75 mm
This is not the same as a 3 mm flooring system, which would typically include:
- Primer: 250 microns (4 m² per litre)
- Body coat: 2.5 mm (2.5 litres per m²)
- Top coat: 250 microns (4 m² per litre)
The difference in durability and material cost is substantial, so make sure your contractor can explain this and provide written confirmation of the build-up.
Check That Surface Preparation Is Mechanical
The first and most important step in applying epoxy to a concrete floor is surface preparation. In most industrial and commercial settings, mechanical preparation is required to achieve proper adhesion. This may include diamond grinding, shot blasting, or other profiling techniques that create a rough, clean surface for the coating to bond to.
Chemical or acid etching is not a suitable substitute for these methods in high-performance environments. Always confirm how the surface will be prepared and ask for site quality assurance (QA) documentation if needed.
Understand the Epoxy Floor Application Thickness by Layer
Each part of the system plays a role in the finished floor’s strength and appearance. For coatings and primers, the typical thickness is around 200 to 250 microns. These layers are usually roller-applied and form the foundation for the base and top coats.
Base layers are where the floor starts to build body and strength. These should be trowel or rake-applied and may vary between 2 mm to 6 mm depending on the site and system requirements. The overall thickness of the flooring system should align with the expected use, whether it involves forklifts, chemicals, heat, or regular washdowns.
Make Materials Cover the Full Quoted Floor Area
Your contractor should calculate and order the correct volume of product based on the square meterage of the site and the required thickness of each layer. This may sound basic, but underestimating material quantities is a common shortcut that leads to thinner, underperforming floors.
You are entitled to ask for QA records, product data sheets, and application rates to ensure the correct amount of material has been used. At Ascoat, we provide this level of transparency as standard.
Work With a Reputable Epoxy Flooring Contractor
Not all epoxy flooring installations are the same. Look for a contractor who uses quality products, can explain their process in detail, and is experienced in applying epoxy flooring in commercial and industrial environments. At Ascoat, we’ve been trusted by clients across Australia for over 30 years. We deliver epoxy flooring systems that are designed to last, with clear communication and quality assurance every step of the way.
Plan Your Epoxy Floor Application With Ascoat
Whether you’re applying epoxy flooring to a warehouse or food production facility, Ascoat will specify the right system for your needs and install it with precision. Contact us today on (03) 9587 7433 or enquire online to request a quote.
