Epoxy Flooring FAQs Melbourne
Answers to common questions about epoxy flooring in Melbourne. Cost, installation, curing times, maintenance, warranty, and more from Floor Lab, Melbourne's epoxy specialists.
- What is epoxy flooring?
- Epoxy flooring is a hard-wearing surface coating made from epoxy resins and hardeners. When mixed and applied to properly prepared concrete, it chemically bonds to the substrate and cures into a thick, durable, seamless surface. It's used in garages, warehouses, workshops, showrooms, and commercial kitchens.
- Is epoxy better than paint or other floor coatings?
- Yes, significantly. Most floor paints are latex or water-based and sit on top of the concrete rather than bonding to it. They peel, scratch, and fade quickly. Proper epoxy systems are 10-20 times thicker than paint, chemically bond to the concrete, and are designed to handle vehicle traffic, chemical spills, and heavy use.
- What finishes are available?
- We offer decorative flake (broadcast flake in a huge range of colour blends), metallic epoxy (poured, organic patterns in silver, bronze, copper and more), and solid colour epoxy. We use APC (All Purpose Coatings) products, and you can view the full colour range on our Colours page.
- Is epoxy slippery when wet?
- A standard gloss epoxy can be slippery when wet. For garages, workshops, or any area that gets wet, we add anti-slip aggregate to the topcoat at no extra charge. Commercial kitchens and wet areas always get a slip-resistant finish as standard.
- Will epoxy yellow or fade over time?
- Cheap epoxy systems can yellow under UV light. All our topcoats are UV-stable polyurethane, which protects the colour and prevents yellowing even in areas with direct sunlight.
- What preparation is needed before installation?
- Concrete preparation is the most important part of any epoxy job. We use diamond grinding machines to open the pores of the concrete and create a mechanical profile for the epoxy to bond to. We also check for moisture, fill cracks, and patch any damaged areas.
- Can epoxy be applied to old or damaged concrete?
- In most cases, yes. Old concrete, stained concrete, and concrete with minor cracking can all be prepped and coated. We assess the slab condition during the free site visit.
- Do you move furniture or vehicles?
- No. The space needs to be completely clear before we arrive. For garages, all vehicles, bikes, and stored items need to be moved out.
- How many coats do you apply?
- A standard installation includes a primer coat, a broadcast or colour coat, and a UV-stable polyurethane topcoat. Some systems include additional build coats. We'll outline exactly what's included in your written quote.
- Do you subcontract the work?
- No. Our own trained crew does every installation. We don't outsource to subcontractors. This means consistent quality and direct accountability on every job.
- How long does installation take?
- Most residential garages take 1 to 2 days. A standard double garage is typically done in a day. Larger garages or jobs requiring significant crack repair may take 2 days.
- How long before I can walk on the floor?
- Light foot traffic is usually safe after 24 to 48 hours. We'll give you specific instructions for your job based on the system and conditions on the day.
- How long before I can park on it?
- Light vehicles can typically be parked on the floor after 5 to 7 days. We recommend waiting the full 7 days to be safe. Heavy vehicles and forklifts should wait 7 to 14 days.
- What happens if it rains during installation?
- We monitor conditions and won't apply epoxy if rain is forecast during the curing window. Garages are generally protected from weather, so rain is rarely an issue for residential jobs.
- How much does epoxy flooring cost in Melbourne?
- Pricing depends on the size of the area, the condition of the concrete, and the finish selected. As a general guide, residential garage floors typically range from $2,000 to $5,000+ for a double garage. Commercial floors are priced per square metre.
- Do you charge for quotes?
- No. Quotes are completely free. We come out to your property, assess the concrete, and provide a written quote. No charge, no obligation.
- How do I get a quote?
- Fill in the enquiry form on our website or call us on 0413 476 530. We'll arrange a free site visit at a time that suits you, usually within a few days.
- Is there a call-out fee or travel fee?
- No. There is no call-out fee for site visits, and no travel fee for any suburb within Greater Melbourne or the Mornington Peninsula.
- How do I clean and maintain an epoxy floor?
- Epoxy is one of the easiest floors to maintain. Regular sweeping or dust mopping removes grit and debris. For deeper cleans, a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner works well.
- How long does epoxy flooring last?
- A properly installed epoxy floor with good-quality topcoat will last 10 to 20 years or more with normal maintenance.
- What does the 7-year warranty cover?
- Our 7-year workmanship warranty covers delamination, peeling, and coating failure caused by our installation process. It does not cover damage caused by improper maintenance, physical impact, or use before the curing period has passed.
- Can epoxy be repaired if it gets damaged?
- Yes. Localised chips, scratches, or worn areas can often be repaired without re-doing the entire floor. Contact us and we can assess whether a repair or a re-coat is the right solution.