Clear coat on Epoxy?

[scottzilla]

My floor is done! Used Rustoleum 2 part kit.
Should I clear coat it?
Educate me please.

 

[jdub63]

I used the commercial 100% epoxy from Rustoleum and was satisfied with the solid color. But I did another area with flakes and I'm not satisfied with the finish, so I ordered some Endurashield from Wolverine.

IMHO, if you used flakes, you'll need a clear coat, if you didn't use the flakes you won't need to clear coat.

 

[scottzilla]

I used the commercial 100% epoxy from Rustoleum and was satisfied with the solid color. But I did another area with flakes and I'm not satisfied with the finish, so I ordered some Endurashield from Wolverine.

IMHO, if you used flakes, you'll need a clear coat, if you didn't use the flakes you won't need to clear coat.

Why? Does the clear coat hold the flakes in place or something?

 

[AlphaGarage]

Epoxy, even a lower quality one, is generally harder than concrete. Flakes, however, are made from vinyl, which is definitely softer than both concrete and epoxy. Left unsealed flakes will scratch, get dirty, discolor, and wear down in heavy traffic. If worn down or dislodged they can leave behind a small hole, which will act as a dirt magnet.

Presumably you use the flakes to achieve a look, one you like. Without a sealer that look won't last long.

 

[scottzilla]

Ah, thanks.

Would it be best to wait a full 7 days to seal the floor?

 

[AlphaGarage]

Ah, thanks.

Would it be best to wait a full 7 days to seal the floor?

You really need to get that info from the dealer. In our case we recommend that our clear coat, EnduraShield 2254, be applied as soon as the underlying epoxy coat is tack free - the sooner the better. In fact if the delay is longer than 24 hours we recommend that the existing coating be scuffed up and wiped with denatured alcohol before applying the clear coat. But again, that's for our specific coating - your coatings may be entirely different.