What is Metallic Epoxy and is it Right for You?
One of the hottest current trends in the concrete coatings industry is metallic epoxy. It has been around for quite some time, but until a few years ago, there were only a few manufacturers really promoting it, and even fewer installers using it. A metallic epoxy floor is a 100% solids two part epoxy that is mixed with reflective pigments or mica flakes. As the epoxy cures out the aggregates suspended in the epoxy move or ‘flow’ creating looks never before possible with epoxy flooring. An artistic installer can utilize multiple colors and techniques to generate even more results which allows the customer to completely customize their floor.
For years, chemical stains and dyes have allowed talented installers to transform concrete into works of art. Not all concrete surfaces were good candidates though. Since metallic epoxies are typically installed fairly thick to give a three dimensional look, they work in places stains and dyes won’t. They can go over repaired cracks and divots, and even separate slabs of concrete that would typically take color differently. A good installation should include a protective top-coat which can be catered to the type of use the floor will get. An industrial application or a retail space would need more protection than a residential quest bathroom that might see very light foot traffic. With top coat products better than ever, these floors can be installed just about anywhere with stunning beauty and industrial strength durability.
Today, information can be shared faster and easier than any other point in history. The popularity of Social Media site like Facebook and Twitter allow users share things they find interesting quickly and easily. Since metallic epoxy floors are visibly stunning and often something people have never seen before, they are getting a lot of attention on visual sites like Pinterest and Houzz, which allow people to create photo albums of ideas for their homes. Architects and designers are beginning to specify metallic epoxies for their projects, and customers looking for something new in flooring choices, really like the ability to customize looks and color without sacrificing on durability, all the while, maintaining, or often beating, a budget associated with most hard surface flooring options like hardwood or tile.
Like with any hot trend, manufacturers are now rushing to jump on the bandwagon. Those that openly expressed a lack of interest a few years ago, now have their own lines and are rushing to get their products out into the frenzy. This will only continue to fuel the popularity of the products. As more and more jobs are completed, there will be more photos shared and installers will find new looks that can be created with metallic epoxy.
If you have some hard surfaces you are considering flooring choices for, metallic epoxy might be a good fit. If you are in the greater Seattle area, we would love to talk with you about what we can do with these products to create a unique one of a kind floor for your residence, business, or facility. Give us a call today!
(425) 586-0706.