Epoxy Resin: How to Troubleshoot Common Issues

As an epoxy flooring contractor, the three best tools in your kit are patience, knowledge, and skill. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a DIY enthusiast, issues will inevitably pop up during epoxy resin installations. These can be as small as bubbles forming, or as serious as a failure to cure properly. No matter what the issue is, we're here at Xtreme Polishing Systems to help you through it!

This guide will help you understand some of the most common issues contractors face on the job. Not only will you know why these issues occur, but you'll learn the best ways to prevent or treat them, too!

There's one simple mantra that all contractors should keep in mind on the job - "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Most any issue you face installing epoxy resin can be entirely prevented or worked around ! Of course, you should be aware of the cure, too. So, let's get into both!

First on the list is also the easiest to fix. Bubbling epoxy resin can come from a few sources. But no matter the source, the solution is the same, whether it's from trapped air or trapped moisture. And in terms of prevention - always prepare surfaces properly, check for moisture , and apply epoxy under optimal conditions.

Solution : For post-installation bubbles, gently scrape the affected area and reapply the resin in any gaps. If you find bubbles during curing, use a heat gun or blow torch to gently dissipate bubbles.

Inconsistent curing, where some areas fully cure while others remain tacky, typically occurs due to temperature fluctuations. It can also be a result of improper mixing, incorrect ratios, or general epoxy quality issues. That's why it's important to be patient and thorough even before you start the installation!

Solution : Maintain a consistent application area temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C). Use a heater to regulate temperature and adhere to the manufacturer’s prescribed curing time. Accurate measurement and thorough mixing of resin are essential for uniform curing.

Cracks in epoxy resin are simple to diagnose, but one of the more complicated issues to fix. Generally, cracking epoxy is a result of an improper mixing/ratio of the epoxy resin solution. The only real solution is getting it right the first time.

If the epoxy resin cracking is severe enough post-installation, you may need to reapply the entire epoxy resin installation.

Solution : Precisely measure and mix epoxy components as per manufacturer guidelines. Apply the resin in thin, even coats and allow each layer to cure fully before adding another.

This is yet another issue that is almost entirely preventable, but hard to fix post-installation. Epoxy begins to yellow over time from UV-exposure due to chemical decomposition °gradation. Polyaspartic  resin is the most surefire way to prevent this from happening.

Solution : Use UV-resistant epoxy formulations for outdoor projects or apply a UV-resistant (such as polyaspartic ) topcoat. Additionally, indoor installations can benefit from low-VOC and non-yellowing formulas. Alternatively, you could use a color palette that naturally camouflages the inevitable yellowing.

Peeling is a contractor and client's worst nightmare. Epoxy resin 's strength is built on its adhesion to the foundation it's applied to - peeling means that has failed. Again, the only real solution here is prevention. So let's get into it!

Solution : Surface preparation, surface preparation, surface preparation. It really is that important - half of these issues are negated almost entirely if you follow proper protocols. You should know your surface preparation  like second nature.

All it takes is a little knowledge and patience to thoroughly fix or prevent any epoxy resin issues. It's an incredibly lenient and sustainable solution. Epoxy resin is strong, durable, and generally easy to install - that doesn't mean you shouldn't take precautions! Remember that prevention is always going to be easier than fixing something post-installation.

Xtreme Polishing Systems (XPS) is the central hub for all things epoxy and concrete flooring! Our technicians are on-call at (877) 958-5264 to help you with any product or job guidance. Check out our online store to find the best resources at the best prices.