What Type of Epoxy Is Ideal for Steel Construction Projects?

Steel may not be the top-of-mind choice for constructing homes, but don’t count out its strength, durability, longevity, and practicality. Some of the benefits of using steel frames and materials for construction include faster construction time, fewer manpower requirements, safer construction sites, easy transport, added potential for recycling, increased strength and malleability, resistance to impact and vibration, and protection against fire and corrosion, to name a very few.

Just like other construction materials, even the strongest steel can be subject to gradual wear and tear. If left unaddressed, such damage can compromise the steel’s quality, threaten its structural integrity, and render it a hazard to the people occupying it.

This is precisely why protective measures must already be implemented as soon as the building process starts and not be relegated to a mere afterthought. By doing so, you can be more at ease knowing you’re not taking shortcuts to a finished product, and your finished outcome can stand the test of time. Learn how epoxy products can work on steel and/or metal surfaces for buildings, and which products from Island Paints can help you get the job done. 

Understanding the Role of Epoxy Products for Steel Surfaces

You’re probably familiar with the potential benefits of using epoxy products on concrete floors and wooden surfaces. However, did you know these can actually help make steel surfaces even stronger?

You can start by looking for products containing epoxy resins. These substances are commonly used in building and construction because they help enhance the durability and lifespan of steel parts, protecting them from physical impacts and wear. Plus, products with epoxy resins can help reduce the need for refurbishing or repainting since the pigment stays intact for a long time.

Products containing epoxy resins are usually applied over a clean and dry surface and are left to cure until they’re fully hardened. During this period, no other products must be applied on top of it to ensure ideal results. Think of this resulting film as a strong and sturdy shield that protects the steel from damage-causing elements.

Painting Over Steel? It’s Absolutely Possible!

If you’re not a fan of the silver or grey tones commonly associated with steel, Island Premium Paints Island Epoxy Enamel Paint allows you to paint them in black, white, and 16 other ready-to-mix colors. More importantly, this two-component paint system offers advantages like:

• Adhesion to various surfaces made of metal, wood, and concrete
• Hardiness and toughness
• Flexible film
• Superior adhesion
• Resistance to corrosion and chemicals 

Beginners or veterans alike can use a paintbrush, roller, or spray to apply this type of paint, but they must do so with utmost caution. After all, epoxy resin products contain some chemicals that may harm someone exposed to them frequently. 

Before handling paints or products with epoxy resins, wear safety gear like face masks, goggles, and gloves to protect your body from unintentional splatters from said products. Once you’re ready, follow these steps and apply Island Premium Paints Island Epoxy Enamel Paint onto steel surfaces:

1. Clean the surface and ensure it’s free of dust, dirt, and other contaminants. 
2. Prime the steel surface with the Island Premium Paints Island Epoxy Paint Primer. Follow the application instructions indicated on the product packaging. Wait for the primer to dry.
3. Do another spot check of the cleanliness of the steel surface. Use a clean cloth to wipe and remove dust, dirt, and other contaminants that may have accumulated on the surface, if needed.
4. Combine 3 parts of the Epoxy Base (Part A) and 1 part of the Epoxy 111 Hardener (Part B) inside a clean container.
5. Once these have been thoroughly mixed, add some amounts of Island Premium Paints Epoxy 102 Reducer depending on the method of application. If you are working with a brush or roller, add up to 5% of the thinner to the mixture. Increase the amount to 20% to 25% if you will be using a conventional spray.
6. Wait at least 12 to 24 hours (depending on the weather) for the epoxy to fully dry before applying another coat. 

What Can Be Done if Steel Surfaces Get Damaged?

In case you have to work with steel materials or surfaces that have been damaged, don’t worry! If steel surfaces don’t show signs of rust and corrosion, it’s still possible to repair them with the help of an epoxy-based adhesive like Island Epoxseal. A product like this won’t just bind metal surfaces together but also allow the surface to resist heat and chemicals. It can also be applied to metal coatings, structural adhesives, fiber-reinforced plastic materials, and electrical insulators and components.

Just like with other epoxy-based products, prioritize your safety when handling Island Epoxseal by wearing face masks, goggles, and gloves.

When working with steel materials for your next construction project, don’t forget to take measures that can increase their strength. While steel is known to be heavy-duty, its chances of sustaining damage are low but never zero. 

Using epoxy resins won’t just help make the steel look good, but also add an extra layer of security and durability. It’s this addition that can save you from costly repairs down the road and keep your steel — and your investment — secure.

With Island Paints, you can make steel materials work for your home or next project when paired with high-quality epoxy resin products. Take a closer look at some of the other benefits of epoxy products and which options are most ideal for the surfaces you will work with.

References:

https://www.steel.org.au/what-we-do/focus-areas/steel-in-architecture/advantages-of-steel-construction

https://kgssteel.com/reasons-steel-is-the-preferred-construction-material/

https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/chemicals/epoxy-resins/