Epoxy screed

Epoxy floor screed is one of the most modern flooring solutions. Its exceptional durability, aesthetics, and functionality make it suitable for both industrial and residential spaces. Below, you'll learn exactly what epoxy floor screed is, its benefits, where it can be used, and how to properly apply and maintain it.

What is epoxy screed?

Epoxy screed is a type of coating made of epoxy resin that, when applied to the floor, creates a uniform, seamless surface. This material is known for its high resistance to mechanical and chemical damage, temperature, and moisture.

What are the properties of epoxy screed?

• Wear resistance : Epoxy screed is extremely resistant to abrasion and impact, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Chemical resistance : Epoxy coating is resistant to many chemicals, including acids and oils.
• Waterproof : The material does not absorb water, making it suitable for rooms exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens or cold rooms.
• Aesthetics : The smooth and uniform surface allows for customization in terms of color and finish (matte, semi-matte, gloss). Some epoxy screed products, such as Epoxol® Floor , not only create a mirror effect but can also be tinted according to the RAL palette.

Where can epoxy screed be used?

Epoxy screeds are used in many places, such as:

• Industrial spaces : Excellent resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and mechanical stress are just some of the many advantages of epoxy screeds. This is why they are often used in industrial environments, including production halls, warehouses, and workshops.
• Public spaces : This is an excellent choice for hospitals, schools, and offices. Epoxy screeds with low VOC emissions and PZH certifications, such as Epoxol® Floor and Neopox® SF Plus ,
• Houses and apartments : Resistance to chemicals and moisture means that epoxy screeds can also be used in houses, in rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms or garages,
• Sports facilities : The ability to create an anti-slip coating on an epoxy screed allows the resin to be successfully applied in gyms, swimming pools, and fitness rooms, among others.

Types of epoxy screeds

Thin-layer screeds

Ideal for areas with moderate traffic, they are characterized by their reduced thickness and ease of application. Thin-layer screeds range in thickness from 0.5 to 1 mm. They are created using specially selected epoxy resins that do not contain organic solvents, such as Epoxol® Floor or Neopox® SF Plus .

Thick-layer screeds

Used in areas requiring high resistance to mechanical and chemical loads. Similar to thin-layer screeds, they are created using low-VOC epoxy resins. Thick-layer screeds range from 1 to even several millimeters thick in a single layer. Epoxol® Floor, mixed with quartz sand and spread with a squeegee to the desired thickness, is ideal for this purpose, as are Troken Floor Flex Special and Troken Floor Fast Special.

Anti-slip screeds

Thanks to special additives, they ensure safety in areas prone to slipping. They are applied by applying a thin layer of topcoat resin with a roller containing an anti-slip additive , or by covering a wet epoxy screed with quartz sand . The screed is then vacuumed to remove loose sand and sealed with a thin layer of resin from above.

Decorative screeds

Available in a variety of colors and finishes, they allow for the creation of visually appealing surfaces. These products can be used to create mirror or marble effects. Epoxol® Floor . Additionally, transparent epoxy resins such as Epoxol® 3D allow for the embedding of images on floors, a trend that is also emerging in many Polish homes.

Advantages of epoxy screeds

• Durability : High resistance to mechanical and chemical damage.
• Hygiene : The seamless surface is easy to keep clean. All you need is a mild detergent, warm water, and a soft-bristled mop.
• Aesthetics : Customizable colors and effects.
• Moisture resistance : Perfect for wet rooms.
• Versatility : Suitable for use in various types of buildings and rooms.

How to prepare the substrate for an epoxy screed?

Step 1: Clean the surface

It's essential to remove dust, dirt, and any loosely bonded parts of the floor. If pouring epoxy resin onto tiles, it's essential to degrease them. It's important to remember that loosely bonded parts of the substrate, as well as grease, significantly reduce the adhesion of the epoxy resin.

Step 2: Leveling the substrate

It's essential to fill any gaps and imperfections before applying the epoxy grout. Significant unevenness can result not only in poor adhesion but also in a compromised final appearance. Ready-made epoxy putties, such as Epoxol® Liquid , Epoxol® Putty , and Neodur® FT Putty . Suitable repair compounds can also be obtained by mixing fine 0.1-0.3 mm quartz sand with Epoxol® Primer SF-P or Neodur® Primer WS .

Step 3: Priming and scratch coat application

Before pouring an epoxy screed, it is necessary to properly prime the substrate to increase resin adhesion. A properly primed substrate will have a full gloss. Any dull spots indicate localized increased substrate absorbency and require additional primer. Before applying an epoxy screed, a leveling layer, known as a scratch coat, is often applied to even out any remaining irregularities, even after filling. This layer further enhances the adhesion of the epoxy screed and improves the final aesthetics of the floor. Troken Floor EPS .

How to properly make an epoxy screed?

• Material preparation : Mix the resin base with the hardener in the appropriate proportions specified by the manufacturer. Then, stir the mixture until smooth and for a specified time to evenly distribute the hardener within the base.
• Application : The prepared mixture is poured onto the floor and spread using a squeegee or squeegee.
• Smoothing : The material should be spread evenly, and then, for materials that are not self-venting, a spiked roller is necessary. This roller not only removes air bubbles created during application but also evenly distributes the resin.
• Curing : Once spread and de-aerated, the screed should be allowed to cure. Full curing usually takes 7 days, although in some cases it can happen sooner.

Maintenance and care of epoxy screeds

To ensure that the epoxy screed serves for many years, it is worth following a few rules:

• Clean the surface regularly using mild detergents and warm water.
• Avoid using abrasives.
• Apply additional protective layers if necessary.

All information regarding the maintenance of epoxy screeds is always included in the technical data sheets of specific products.