Zero-VOC odorless epoxy for indoor flooring?

[EpoxyBoxy]

Does anyone have experience with zero-VOC epoxy for indoor flooring? I'm considering replacing my bedroom carpet and love the look/feel of epoxy. Everlast Epoxy Systems advertises their product as zero-VOC and odorless. I want to go zero-VOC since I have some health issues and will be DIY installing this indoors.

Disadvantages of zero-VOC vs low-VOC? Any other brands besides Everlast that make zero-VOC?

Thanks in advance!

 

[KYCountryboy]

There are several manufacturers with "zero VOC" Epoxy. Most "100% solids" epoxy will be either zero or very low VOC. 100% solids means that the epoxy does not contain solvents which are the source of VOC's. I'm speaking in generalities here.

Some things to consider...(I've assumed concrete under the carpet)

You are removing carpet. There will be adhesive on the floor which must also be removed. Removing carpet glue can be a whole 'nother thread. A floor grinding machine with diamond tooling "teeth" is your best bet. You can rent one at a equipment rental store such as United Rentals (there are many). You will also need to rent a HEPPA vacuum to attach to the grinder and control the dust generated from the process. You'll need separate electrical circuits for each because combined they will draw too much amperage for a standard circuit. Even then, Sometimes the glue co-operates, sometimes it just looks at you and says "Do your best buddy, I'm not coming up".


The epoxy application process is pretty straightforward after that, although there are many opportunities for "aww shucks" for the inexperienced.

Having said all that I suggest you hire a professional.

Tony

 

[FJ4FUN]

All of our epoxies, including our primers, are 100% solids, zero VOCs. Our EnduraShield hybrid urethane does contain 3-5% solvent but this fully dissipates within 36hrs. For a 100% solids coating system consider our 2 layer (no urethane top coat) full ceramic CFLC System once you've ground the slab.

 

[EpoxyBoxy]

Much appreciated. Are there any options on which zero-VOC epoxy is best?

I also need to find a zero-VOC sealant. Any recommendations?

 

[KYCountryboy]

Much appreciated. Are there any options on which zero-VOC epoxy is best?

I also need to find a zero-VOC sealant. Any recommendations?

Asking which 100% solids epoxy is best is akin to asking which car is best. Everyone claims there's is the best. In actuality, there are a limited number of actual manufacturers of epoxy. The vast majority sold is private labeled product from one of these manufacturers. There are a lot of companies calling themselves manufacturers who in fact purchase bulk materials from true manufacturers and do a little mixing.... Add to this that there have been a lot of advances in resin chemistry, and its ongoing.

Distributor Marketing makes all kinds of claims, some of them are insane. Lots of "one day" garage system companies blaring that their product is 4,10, 20 times stronger than epoxy. Its all Gobblygook!

There's a lot of **** coming from China via Canada (to avoid tariffs). Ask where the resin comes from.

Having said all that there are some major players in the market (Sherwin Williams, & PPG for example) and a good number of smaller but fully capable suppliers.

Sherwin Williams and PPG have good products, but they are generally not user friendly for inexperienced applicators. Benjamin Moore's Corotech line is another. Good products but not user friendly. Corotech is also some of the strongest smelling stuff I've used.

Here are some links :
www.nationalpolymers.com
www.smithpaints.com
www.polygem.com
www.milamar.com (was acquired a few years ago by versaflex which then was acquired by PPG)
www.crownpolymers.com

I don't know where you are located but I suggest interviewing a local applicator or three and find out what they use and why.

Good luck!

Tony

 

[derrickolleye]

Does anyone have experience with zero-VOC epoxy for indoor flooring? I'm considering replacing my bedroom carpet and love the look/feel of epoxy. Everlast Epoxy Systems advertises their product as zero-VOC and odorless. I want to go zero-VOC since I have some health issues and will be DIY installing this indoors.

Disadvantages of zero-VOC vs low-VOC? Any other brands besides Everlast that make zero-VOC?

Thanks in advance!

Wouldn't it be easier for you to use a protective mask? Taking care of your health can cost you a lot in terms of construction quality.....Or just hire builders to do this job...

 

[67CarGuy]

Wouldn't it be easier for you to use a protective mask? Taking care of your health can cost you a lot in terms of construction quality.....Or just hire builders to do this job...

The problem with some VOCs is that they continue to produce over time, so while wearing a mask while applying is a great idea, you don't want to use a product that would require a mask for weeks or months (or longer). How long does "new car smell" last? It's usually more than a week, I know that much.

And then there are those VOCs that you grow accustomed to, so you just don't notice that the smell is still there. And often the smell is the least of your health concerns.

 

[derrickolleye]

The problem with some VOCs is that they continue to produce over time, so while wearing a mask while applying is a great idea, you don't want to use a product that would require a mask for weeks or months (or longer). How long does "new car smell" last? It's usually more than a week, I know that much. And then there are those VOCs that you grow accustomed to, so you just don't notice that the smell is still there. And often the smell is the least of your health concerns.

A protective mask is one of the options for solving the problem! You can also use ventilation (or similar) solutions to reduce the impact of odor! But it is still better to make it simpler, of course, buy a product with a minimum content of zero-VOC epoxy )))