Why Sand Between Coats of Epoxy?
When applying epoxy to a surface, it often takes more than one coat to achieve a durable and even finish. However, without sanding between layers, you could run into several issues. Let’s explore what happens if you skip this step.
- Poor Adhesion Between Coats
Epoxy forms a hard, glossy surface after curing. If you try to apply a new coat of epoxy over a previous coat without sanding, the smooth surface won’t provide enough texture for the new layer to properly bond. Sanding, or roughing it up, creates tiny grooves that allow the next coat to grip the surface, ensuring strong adhesion.
Without sanding, the layers may peel or delaminate over time, leading to an uneven finish and an unsightly floor. This is especially important if you’re working on a garage floor coating, where the surface needs to be tough enough to withstand heavy foot traffic, hot tires, vehicles, and other stresses that can go on in a garage.
- Imperfections in the Finish
Even if the first coat looks perfect, skipping the sanding step can result in a rough, bumpy finish. Dust particles, small bubbles, and imperfections can get trapped between layers if you don’t sand between coats.
For those using garage epoxy to create a flawless, showroom-quality finish, this step is essential. Whether you’re a DIYer or seeking a “garage floor coating near me,” you don’t want to skip this critical process if you want the best results.
- Reduced Durability of Your Epoxy Floor
The purpose of a quality epoxy garage floor is to provide a tough, durable surface that stands up to wear and tear. But without proper adhesion between coats, your floor’s durability is compromised. When you skip sanding, you’re leaving weak spots where the epoxy is more likely to crack, chip, or peel over time. It’ll surprise you, the first few months the floor may look flawless, but over time these errors will show up. After that it’s much more expensive to get a previously coated floor repair.
This can be a significant issue, especially in high-traffic areas like garages where the floor is exposed to vehicles, temperature changes, heavy equipment, and frequent use. Investing in professional service can ensure your garage floor coating is applied correctly and built to last.
How to Sand Between Epoxy Coats
If you’re taking on the job yourself, here’s a quick guide to ensure you do it right:
- Wait for the Coat to Cure: Allow the first coat of epoxy to fully cure. This typically takes around 24 hours, but always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Use Fine-Grit Sandpaper: Use 220 to 320-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface. You don’t need to apply heavy pressure; the goal is to create a light texture.
- Clean Thoroughly: After sanding, clean the surface thoroughly to remove dust and debris. A vacuum or tack cloth works well for this step.
- Apply the Next Coat: Once the surface is clean and dry, apply the next coat of epoxy.
Why Choose Epoxy Classes NY?
For homeowners and businesses looking to get the perfect epoxy floor coating without the hassle, Epoxy Classes NY offers professional installation services in Upstate NY. They ensure every step of the process is done with precision, from sanding between coats to final finishes. Whether you’re in need of an epoxy garage floor or a custom garage epoxy project, their experienced team guarantees a flawless result. If you’re wanting to get into the epoxy coatings industry and take a class, consider taking one of ours!
Conclusion
Sanding between coats of epoxy is a critical step that shouldn’t be overlooked. It ensures strong adhesion, a smooth finish, and long-lasting durability for your garage floor coating. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or considering hiring professionals like Epoxy Classes NY, taking the time to sand between coats will pay off in the long run with a beautiful, durable epoxy floor.