Some of the key benefits of epoxy flooring are its durability and slip resistance. However, epoxy alone is not necessarily slip-resistant. A non-skid additive can be mixed into the epoxy to provide extra traction and prevent slipping, especially in areas that may be wet or oily. There are many different non-skid additives available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

This article will provide all the fundamental information on epoxy coating additives that create a non-skid or anti-slip surface. We will discuss these additives, how they work, the different types available, and their pros and cons. By the end of this article, you should have a good understanding of non-skid additives for epoxy coatings and be able to choose the best one for your needs.

What Are Non-Skid Additives?

Non-skid additives are materials that are added to epoxy coatings to improve traction and prevent slipping. They can be in the form of powders, beads, or flakes and are usually made from materials like aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, or calcined bauxite. Non-skid additives work by creating a rougher surface that provides more friction and traction.

How Do Non-Skid Additives Work?

Non-skid additives work by changing the surface texture of the epoxy coating. They create a rougher surface that has more traction, making it less likely to slip. In addition, some non-skid additives also increase the coefficient of friction (COF), which is a measure of how much traction a surface has. The higher the COF, the more grip or traction the surface will have.

Types of Non-Skid Additives

There are three main types of non-skid additives: powders, beads, and flakes. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before choosing one.

Powders

Powdered non-skid additives are the most common type. They are easy to use and can be added to epoxy coatings without changing the color or appearance. Powdered additives usually provide good traction and slip resistance. However, they can be difficult to clean and may require special cleaners or brushes.

Beads

Beaded non-skid additives are less common than powders but are becoming more popular. They are easier to apply than powders and provide good traction and slip resistance. Beaded additives can be mixed into clear epoxy coatings without changing the color or appearance. However, they may be more difficult to clean than powders and may require special cleaners or brushes.

Flakes

Flaked non-skid additives are the least common type. They are more difficult to apply than powders and beads and may require special equipment. Flaked additives can be mixed into clear epoxy coatings without changing the color or appearance. However, they may be more difficult to clean than powders and beads and may require special cleaners or brushes.

Pros and Cons of Non-Skid Additives

There are many different types of non-skid additives, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a non-skid additive:

Cost: Non-skid additives can range in price from $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.

Ease of Application: Some non-skid additives are easier to apply than others. Powders are the easiest to apply, followed by beads and flakes.

Traction: All types of non-skid additives will improve traction and slip resistance. However, some types may provide better traction than others.

Appearance: Non-skid additives can change the appearance of the epoxy coating. Powdered additives usually don’t change the appearance, while bead and flake additives can give the coating a speckled or flecked look.

Color: Non-skid additives can also change the color of the epoxy coating. Powdered additives usually don’t change the color, while bead and flake additives can add color to the coating.

Cleaning: Some non-skid additives are easier to clean than others. Powdered additives usually don’t require special cleaners or brushes, while bead and flake additives may require special cleaners or brushes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best non-skid additive?

There is no one “best” non-skid additive. The best additive for your project will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

How much do non-skid additives cost?

Non-skid additives can range in price from $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.

How do I apply a non-skid additive?

Non-skid additives can be applied using a variety of methods, including sprinkling, mixing, or spraying. The best method will depend on the type of additive and the available equipment.

We recommend hiring a licensed professional to apply a non-skid additive to your epoxy floor coating.

How do I remove a non-skid additive?

Non-skid additives can be removed using various methods, including sanding, grinding, or chemical strippers. The best method will depend on the type of additive and the condition of the floor.

We recommend hiring a licensed professional to remove a non-skid additive from your epoxy floor coating.

What are the benefits of using a non-skid additive?

Using a non-skid additive has many benefits, including improved traction and slip resistance, increased durability, and easier cleaning.

What are the drawbacks of using a non-skid additive?

There are some potential drawbacks to using a non-skid additive, including increased cost and difficulty of application. Additionally, some types of additives can change the appearance or color of the epoxy coating.