Start to finish

1. 01

   PREPARING THE SURFACE

   Before epoxy can be applied, the existing surface must be clean, dry and properly prepared. This may be concrete, tiles or another suitable existing surface.

   Depending on the material and its condition, preparation may involve degreasing, acid washing, diamond grinding or mechanically abrading the surface. This removes contamination, loose material and smooth or glossy areas while creating a surface the coating can bond to.

   Surface preparation is one of the most important parts of the entire epoxy flooring process. Without it, even a high-quality coating may not bond correctly.

2. 02

   CRACK, JOINT AND SURFACE REPAIRS

   Epoxy alone does not repair cracks or damage underneath it. Simply coating over these areas can allow them to remain visible or affect the finished floor.

   Depending on the existing surface, cracks, holes, pitting, chipped areas, damaged grout lines or uneven sections are cleaned and repaired with a suitable compound. Loose tiles or unstable sections must be addressed before coating continues.

   Caulking is used where joints or gaps need to be sealed while still allowing a small amount of movement. A flexible caulk may be more suitable than a rigid repair compound in these areas. Movement joints must be assessed individually rather than simply coated over.

   Crack filling is included in every Prime package. Joint and gap caulking is included in Prime Ultimate.

3. 03

   APPLYING THE PRIMER

   Primer creates the foundation between the prepared surface and the coating system above it.

   It works into the prepared surface and helps the following coats bond securely. This is particularly valuable after diamond grinding and on older or more porous surfaces.

   A separate primer is not included in every flooring system. Prime Premium and Prime Ultimate include a separate epoxy primer. Prime Basic uses acid-wash preparation without a separate primer.

4. 04

   BASE COAT AND FLAKES

   Once the surface has been prepared and, where included, primed, the coloured base coat is applied.

   Decorative flakes are broadcast while the coating is still wet, allowing them to set into the floor rather than simply sitting on top. They add colour and texture while making everyday dust and marks less noticeable.

   The amount of flake coverage and any anti-slip flakes depend on the selected Prime system, the preferred finish and how the space will be used.

5. 05

   SCRAPING AND CLEANING

   Once the base coat has hardened, loose and raised flakes are scraped back.

   The entire floor is then thoroughly vacuumed and cleaned. This removes excess flakes, creates a more even finish and prepares the surface for its protective clear coat.

   This step is especially important with heavier or full flake coverage, where more material needs to be scraped back and levelled.

6. 06

   APPLYING THE CLEAR COAT

   The UV-stable clear coat seals and protects the colour and flakes underneath.

   This is the finished layer exposed to foot traffic, vehicles, cleaning, tyre heat and everyday wear. It also makes the floor easier to clean by sealing the textured flake surface.

   Depending on the selected Prime system, one or two clear coats are applied. Prime Ultimate includes two premium clear top coats for an additional protective layer.

7. 07

   CURING

   After the final coat has been applied, the flooring system needs time to harden before returning to normal use.

   The floor may be ready for light foot traffic before it is strong enough for vehicles, heavy items or washing. The required curing time depends on the products used, temperature and weather conditions.

   Allowing the floor to cure correctly is part of the installation process. Using it too early can leave marks or damage the finish before it has developed sufficient strength.

8. 08

   FINAL INSPECTION AND HANDOVER

   Once the coating work is complete, the masking is removed and the work area is left tidy.

   The finished floor is checked and the required curing times are confirmed before the space returns to normal use.

   You’ll receive the care instructions and warranty terms applying to your Prime flooring system. If anything about the finished floor is unclear, you can contact Prime directly.

the process in images