Clear coat for Epoxy Guard? Need advice.

[kells44]

After some inspirational threads and pictures of epoxied floors in this AWESOME forum I have decided to epoxy my floor (and will post pics). But I have a dilemma and after hours of searching, I cannot find an answer in this forum.

Here's my situation:

I'm going to use Epoxy-Guard from Costco (already purchased it), which is a 100% 1-part solids epoxy. They do not recommend a top-coat (probably so their product is more convienent), but I bought extra pounds of flakes for heavy coverage. So I'm worried about needing to seal the extra flakes and making darn sure my floor will last. I found Devoe makes a polyurethane (aliphatic urethane called Devthane 379UVA).

Does anybody know if this polyurethane will adhere to my epoxy floor or will it delaminate? If I have to acid etch my floor to make sure epoxy adheres, how can this polyurethane adhere to a slick, glossy epoxy? Should I use a 100% solids clear epoxy as a top coat instead?

A little more background. This is for my two-car garage (not a shop). I do some mechanical work and woodworking, but nothing serious. I'm most concerned about the floor withstanding hot tires and road salt in the brutal winters.

 

[victor07]

I used Epoxy-Coat, that does not require a clear coat. It is also 100% solids, the flake actually embeds into the epoxy. No need for a clear coat.

Also, my friend used the Epoxy Guard, he ordered it from a local Costco in our area. I strongly believe that it is the same product as the Epoxy-Coat. Packaged the same and looks just like mine after applied. He did not need a clear coat either. I've attached a couple of my pics.

Good luck,

 

[kells44]

Thanks, I'm happy to hear you had good results.

Are there any other opinions? Does anybody recommend using Devthane 379UVA and sealing the flakes?

 

['the epoxy floor guy']

I WOULD NEVER COAT A FLOOR , APPLY CHIPS AND NOT PUT A CLEAR COAT ON.

The clear coat makes ALL the difference. First of all EPOXY is not as good at chemical resistance as urethane. Second, the more chips you put on the more likely that a chips is only adhered by one corner or a side making it likely that it will catch dust and 'fuzz' from mops etc.

Top coating with a urethane is a great idea. I would suggest Adding our bonding agent to the urethane. 2oz per mixed gallon. ALL coatings get a 'crust' on them after their respective 'recoat' times. This additive will 'etch' the previous coat and make it stick without worries of delamination.

2 oz is $9.99 (good for ONE gallon)
8 oz is $29.99 (will treat 4 gals)

This will also work as ADDITIONAL insurance if you are concerned if you did a good enough prep job. Contact me if you want more info.

or where to buy.

 

[Matti]

I just bought 3 of the Rustoleum Epoxy Coat kits which I think may be a similar or even the same product. I noticed that there was a separate clear coat available that offers "added protection". I wonder how easy it is to repair heavy damage/scratches once it is clear coated.