Basement concrete - epoxy

[CT2012]

Am starting to consider a basement floor re-do, a simple 1/8" self-leveling concrete overlay (like a Quickrete Floor Resurfacer over the exiting crappy concrete surface), then putting down some basic do-it-yourself epoxy from HD or maybe something a little fancier from a vendor here. Question is, do i need to do anything particular on the concrete surface prep since it'll be, effectively, new surface? Sq. footage is in the 500 or so range. FYI, the basement floor is generally dry, other than in a few sq. ft. of area where the concrete is so thin i can see dirt/gravel where small pieces are chipped away. On those particular spots/areas, moisture comes up (light dampness) during certain seasons. It's a very old house, but there is also a french drain, sump pump, new masonry on stone foundation walls inside & out. By the way my floor is all over the map in terms of level, so a mud job and tile is economically outta the question.

 

[Garage Flooring]

Am starting to consider a basement floor re-do, a simple 1/8" self-leveling concrete overlay (like a Quickrete Floor Resurfacer over the exiting crappy concrete surface), then putting down some basic do-it-yourself epoxy from HD or maybe something a little fancier from a vendor here. Question is, do i need to do anything particular on the concrete surface prep since it'll be, effectively, new surface? Sq. footage is in the 500 or so range. FYI, the basement floor is generally dry, other than in a few sq. ft. of area where the concrete is so thin i can see dirt/gravel where small pieces are chipped away. On those particular spots/areas, moisture comes up (light dampness) during certain seasons. It's a very old house, but there is also a french drain, sump pump, new masonry on stone foundation walls inside & out. By the way my floor is all over the map in terms of level, so a mud job and tile is economically outta the question.

<<<On those particular spots/areas, moisture comes up (light dampness) during certain seasons>>>

I would have some serious doubts as to if you are going to get good adhesion. You need to do a moisture test and see if it within tolerance for a liquid vapor barrier.

 

[CT2012]

moisture test--do now or wait until surface moisture appears? typically is worst in early spring. i'm in northeast by the way.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Intermittent moisture as you describe can pop a coating off your floor.
Spring is the time this will occur due to saturated ground and snow melt.

 

[rugerlady]

I agree, wait until wet season (spring) and do a moisture test.

 

[Garage Flooring]

absolutely agree with Christine and Scotty

 

[thegarageguy]

Typical self leveling concretes are applied a minimum of 1/4 inch thick. 1/8 inch, as you mentioned, would not allow the product to self level or flow properly and will leave trowel marks or waves.

Also, excessive vapor emissions, regardless if its visible or not will delaminate most self leveling products. You will need to waterproof regardless of the season you decide to do it.

You may be better off hiring a pro company that could warranty the job.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Cut out the thin area ! Cut it back until you hit at least a couple of inches of solid concrete. Dig it down 3-4 inches and mix up some regular Quikrete.

Do it right the first time !