FAQs

FAQs2022-08-15T22:44:20+08:00
How does polyaspartic flooring compare to epoxy resin?2024-05-21T16:19:31+08:00

Polyaspartic coating has a different chemical composition to epoxy, The main differences are that polyaspartic has a higher ability to expand and contract in response to temperature changes. It’s also highly resistant to UV rays. This makes it an excellent choice for outside flooring as it won’t fade over time or separate from the concrete or surface beneath.

Do Shimicoat epoxy kits represent better value than buying the items individually?2023-12-10T02:19:50+08:00

Yes, they do. In addition to the great monetary value, they also save time. You can purchase a Shimicoat epoxy resin kit safe in the knowledge that all you need to know is the area of the surface to be covered. As long as you have this data then you’ll receive the exact combination of each product to complete your installation.

This reduces the common issues of overs-ordering (and, therefore, wasted money) or under-ordering when calculating how much to purchase when you buy each product individually.

What does and epoxy resin kit contain?2023-12-10T02:18:47+08:00

Our range of epoxy resin kits contain everything that’s required for a particular epoxy floor installation. Examples of our epoxy kits include:

• Epoxy flake floor complete kit: contains all the layers necessary for an installation –prime coat, base coat, vinyl flake layer and UVthane topcoat.
• Garage floor epoxy kit: Again, containing the mix of multi-layers for the perfect garage floor project,
• Metallic floor epoxy resin kit: includes your choice of matt, semi-gloss or high gloss metallic finishes that are applied using the SHIMI Décor Pour on Pigmented Metallic layer.

Other complete epoxy kits include:

• Patch and repair
• Crack repair
• Swimming pools
• Benchtops
• Coving
• Concrete polish
• Slip-resistant
• Fast cure
• Premium tinted

And many more…

How do I purchase the right size and type of epoxy resin kit?2023-12-10T02:18:03+08:00

Our easy online ordering system features intuitive drop-down menus where you input bespoke options, including size and colours. If you’d prefer to discuss your requirements, our experienced team can take your order over the phone or in-store. You can also email us with your needs and we’ll respond as quickly as possible.

What if I end up needing more of one of the items in an epoxy kit that I’ve purchased?2023-12-10T02:17:02+08:00

While this shouldn’t happen, if – for any reason – you did need more of a particular item, everything that’s contained in our epoxy resin kits can also be purchased individually.

How long do epoxy kits take to cure?2023-12-10T02:14:34+08:00

All of our resin floor kits will be dry enough to walk on within 24 hours. However, we also provide fast cure kits for projects that need to be back up and running in the shortest time possible.

Do you sell polyaspartic complete kits?2024-05-21T16:06:21+08:00

We certainly do. Each contains everything you need for a trouble-free and fast application.

Can I choose the tint and finish when I purchase an epoxy resin kit?2023-12-10T02:13:33+08:00

Yes, of course. All our epoxy kits are designed to contain everything that’s needed for a bespoke installation. While these are listed and packaged as complete kits, you have total control over the individual details of colour and finish choice.

What kind of projects can I purchase a complete epoxy resin kit for?2023-12-10T02:11:32+08:00

In short, pretty much everything. We’ve designed our epoxy kits to suit all purposes. These include garage floors, driveways, swimming pools, warehouses, showrooms, commercial premises, factory floors, food prep areas, restaurants and cafes, garages, parking lots… The list is endless.

In addition, we also offer epoxy kits for patching, cracks, repairs, benchtops and coving. For the ultimate in high-gloss finish, we also offer a concrete polish complete kit.

What type of chemicals does Shimicoat supply?2023-12-10T01:59:00+08:00

We offer a full range of chemicals to complement the whole Shimicoat range. These have been tailored to provide the exact blend that works in partnership with all of our other products. The range includes:

• Various types of epoxy diluent
• Epoxy hardener
• Densilicate concrete densifier penetrating sealer.
• Grouting latex concrete polish

Are Shimicoat chemicals suitable for use outdoors?2023-12-10T01:57:46+08:00

Absolutely! As an Australian-owned and run company with decades of experience in all things epoxy, our range has been designed specifically for the Aussie climate. You won’t find better epoxy diluents and hardeners that can be used inside and outside for the ultimate finish and longevity.

What types of epoxy diluent do you sell?2023-12-10T01:57:04+08:00

Our range has been designed to cover all diluent needs and includes:

• AcryDil Acrylic Diluent: A carefully designed blend of acrylate diluent solvents.
• EpoDill: A blend of epoxy diluent solvents.
• Xylene: Organic solvent diluent & thinner.

Do you sell a fast-curing epoxy hardener?2023-12-10T01:56:23+08:00

We certainly do. Our Catalyst Fast Cure Epoxy Hardener is one of the very best on the market.

Do you provide instructions on how to use Shimicoat chemicals?2023-12-10T01:55:18+08:00

Yes. Every purchase of our chemicals comes with full printed instructions on how to correctly use the product. Because we’ve spent many years creating the ultimate range of epoxy diluent and epoxy hardeners, all of our chemicals are custom designed to be incredibly user-friendly. This makes them suitable for use by both professional epoxy floor installers and those who are constructing a DIY project.

How do I know how much epoxy diluent to buy?2023-12-10T01:54:36+08:00

We provide a full service to all of our customers that includes advice on the amount you need to purchase. As long as you know the area of the floor that you want to cover, our experienced advisors will help define the amount of other chemical/s you need to go with it.

If I add an epoxy hardener to a floor, how much will it speed up the curing process?2023-12-10T01:53:55+08:00

Our signature Catalyst Fast-Cure Epoxy Hardener generally reduces the curing time to around 24 hours. This means the floor will be able to be back in full use after this period and is ideal when time is of the essence.

Is it easy to add an epoxy hardener into the flooring mix?2023-12-10T01:50:49+08:00

It certainly is. The product is designed to be used in varying ratios to reduce the curing time as per your needs. We provide a user-friendly guide to assist – all you need to do is define the timescale and then mix in the correct amount.

How do I order Shimicoat chemicals, such as epoxy diluent and hardener?2023-12-10T01:50:15+08:00

You can either order on our website for fast delivery, over the phone or drop into our showroom in Bibra Lake WA where we have a full inventory in stock for immediate purchase.

What type of flooring can I apply epoxy resin to?2023-12-10T01:13:09+08:00

Epoxy resin flooring is most usually applied to concrete, but it’s also the perfect choice for other bases. These include:

• Tiles.
• Wood.
• MDF.
• Metal.
• Ceramic.
• Porcelain.
• Glass,
• Laminate.
• Formica.

There are only a few surfaces that you can’t use epoxy to cover, such as silicone or copper. If you have a query about the type of surface you wish to cover with clear epoxy resin, please get in contact with the friendly Shimicoat team.

Is an epoxy resin floor non-slip?2023-12-10T01:11:43+08:00

Epoxy resin flooring has great non-slip properties – but you can make this even better with the addition of a non-slip coating.

Does Shimicoat sell complete clear epoxy resin flooring kits?2023-12-10T01:07:45+08:00

We certainly do… Our complete epoxy resin kits cover virtually every requirement. From flake floor kits to slip-resistant, metallic flooring to epoxy resin crack and patch repairs, swimming pool resin… Our team is always on hand to help you choose the right kit for your needs, so feel free to call, email or pop into our showroom for expert assistance.

How long does an epoxy resin floor last?2023-12-10T01:06:24+08:00

Longevity depends on various factors. These include:

• The depth of the epoxy applied.
• The quality of the epoxy.
• The extent of footfall/traffic that uses it.
• The amount of UV light it receives.
• Whether any topcoats are applied.

Shimicoat epoxy resin has been honed over decades, upgraded as technology advances and wholly engineered for longevity. Wherever it’s applied, how tough the traffic and whatever the environment, our resin flooring not only lasts for multiple years but requires little to no maintenance (just mop up any spills, give it a sweep and the occasional wash) and remains a floor to be proud of for a very long time…

Can I choose the colour and add any markings to clear epoxy resin flooring?2023-12-10T01:02:59+08:00

You certainly can! Clear epoxy resin flooring can be personalised in a virtually infinite choice. The Shimicoat range includes colour options across the spectrum and a wide variety of finishes, including flakes, metallic and quartz.

Epoxy resin can also be marked in any way you choose. Add pedestrian walkways, parking areas, arrows, food prep areas, directional markings, logos, company names… The choice is endless…

How long does it take an epoxy resin floor to dry?2023-12-10T01:01:41+08:00

When applied in ambient environments (over 5 degrees centigrade), an epoxy floor will be dry enough to walk on in about 12-24 hours. The warmer it is, the quicker it will cure. You should wait around 3-5 days before heavy traffic is introduced.

What’s the difference between epoxy resin, polyurethane and polyaspartic flooring?2023-12-10T00:59:50+08:00

While all of them can be considered cousins, each has an individual makeup and its own characteristics.

Epoxy resin flooring is:

• A resin that’s low in VOCs.
• A self-levelling floor surface (it’s poured into place).
• Bonds extremely well to concrete and other hard surfaces and can be used to resurface worn concrete surfaces.

Polyurethane is:

• Solvent-based and thus high in VOCs.
• Doesn’t bond well to concrete and other surfaces.
• Often used as a topcoat over epoxy resin, thanks to its high resistance to UV rays (doesn’t yellow over time).

Polyaspartic is:

• A coating and sealing material that has low to no VOCs.
• Highly resistant to UV rays.
• Cures much faster than both epoxy resin and polyurethane.

Each type has distinctive uses depending on what you require from your flooring choice. If you need any advice on the type or combination of surfaces, please get in contact with our friendly Shimicoat team.

What is epoxy resin flooring?2023-12-10T00:58:15+08:00

Epoxy resin is a synthetic flooring system that’s made from reactive polymers. Once cured, it forms a super-tough, waterproof and attractive surface. It’s applied in a liquid state – usually over concrete – but can be applied over other surfaces. Shimicoat clear epoxy resin flooring can be tailored to suit any colour scheme, include bespoke markings and with the option of many different finishes.

Can I use a concrete floor sealer to freshen up an existing acrylic coating?2023-12-08T17:36:31+08:00

Yes, you can – and it’s a really good option to upgrade the appearance of an existing floor. Shimicoat offers a range of concrete floor sealers, from ultra-clear polyurethane water-based sealers to tinted options in any colour you choose. Our expert team is on hand to answer any questions you might have.

Does an epoxy floor sealer increase UV ray resistance?2023-12-08T17:34:58+08:00

Absolutely! And it’s a really good idea to add this if your epoxy resin floor is going to be subjected to either natural light or harsh interior lighting. The use of a floor sealer will prevent premature yellowing, as well as adding a lovely sheen and providing further protection from wear and scratches.

What are the different types of epoxy floor sealers?2023-12-08T17:34:08+08:00

The Shimicoat range of sealers has been designed to cover every need. The different types include:

 

  • Water-based concrete sealers.
  • Water-based tinted concrete sealers.
  • Clear Aquathane polyurethane concrete floor sealers.
  • Chemical-resistant clear polyaspartic floor sealers.
  • Clear marine polyaspartic sealers.
  • Fibreglass clear sealers.
  • Laminating clear sealers.

UV-resistant clear epoxy floor sealers.

Is an epoxy floor sealer used on top or below the resin?2023-12-08T17:32:36+08:00

Epoxy floor sealers are used on the top of the resin. They provide a final level of protection against traffic and the environment.

Do I need to seal a concrete floor before applying epoxy resin?2023-12-08T17:31:51+08:00

Epoxy resin can be poured directly onto concrete – it’s designed to do so and adheres well to the surface. However, the concrete should be in good condition. Therefore, any major cracks, holes or damage should be repaired before the epoxy pour.

 

Shimicoat provides a full range of preparatory materials designed specifically for repairs of concrete floors.

Why should I use an epoxy floor sealer?2023-12-08T17:30:53+08:00

While you don’t need to seal an epoxy resin floor, there are many reasons you should do so. These include:

 

  • It increases the durability of the surface and extends its lifespan: While epoxy resin is incredibly long wearing, high traffic locations and/or those that are exposed to daylight or harsh interior lighting, the addition of a floor sealer will keep your floor looking newer and brilliant for longer.
  • It adds chemical resistance: In areas where chemical spills are likely, adding a floor sealer that’s resistant to such harsh substances will prevent an extra layer of resistance to chemical attack.
  • It camouflages any scruffs or scratches: Sure, epoxy is one of the toughest flooring choices on the planet – but over time, even the most robust floor will eventually show some wear. Adding a topcoat will help prevent this from happening and, if scratches occur, can help to prevent them from being noticeable. It’s also a great option to give an existing floor surface an upgrade – a layer of clear epoxy floor sealer can revitalise a floor that’s showing signs of wear.
  • It makes an epoxy floor extra resistant to UV rays: Without protection, epoxy resin flooring is likely to lose colour and become yellow over time if exposed to UV rays. The simple addition of a UV-resistant epoxy floor sealer negates this, increasing its longevity and keeping it looking fabulous for longer.
What is an epoxy floor sealer?2023-12-08T17:28:02+08:00

An epoxy floor sealer is a tailor-designed topcoat that provides additional protection to the floor, increases the shine and makes the flooring last longer. It blocks moisture, prevents bacterial build-up and you can even add pigment to change the colour or shade of an existing floor.

 

Epoxy floor sealers can be added at any time – either on the top of a new installation or on an existing floor to give it a new lease of life.

What is epoxy resin flooring?2023-11-27T17:55:05+08:00

Epoxy resin is a synthetic flooring system that’s made from reactive polymers. Once cured, it forms a super-tough, waterproof and attractive surface. It’s applied in a liquid state – usually over concrete – but can be applied over other surfaces. Shimicoat clear epoxy resin flooring can be tailored to suit any colour scheme, include bespoke markings and with the option of many different finishes.

Should I protect my new Flake Floor (garage) from tyres marks?2021-04-07T16:59:57+08:00

Yes, we recommend placing carpet mats under your tyres, will protect your floor from possible yellowing or marking your new flake floor.

Where are the recommended installations?2021-04-07T16:59:04+08:00

Seamless Flake Flooring Systems can be applied to both commercial or domestic surfaces.

Some examples are:

 

External:                                                             

  • Around swimming pools
  • Driveways
  • Garages
  • Path ways
  • Ramps
  • Around houses
  • Fencing
  • Walls
  • Utes / Trailers
  • Food Vans
  • Retirement villages
  • Commercial buildings carparks
  • Any area outside you would need dressing up.

Internal:

  • Throughout the whole home on floors / walls
  • Showers Domestic, Public Gyms, Schools
  • Toilets   Domestic, Public Gyms, Schools
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundries
  • Rumpus rooms
  • Bench tops
  • Renewing that old kitchen Laminex bench
  • Garages or sheds
  • School class rooms
  • Canteens
  • Sports clubs

These are some of the areas the system has been successfully applied to already. Preparation is THE MOST crucial part and must be perfect for a perfect job.

How durable are the available Flake systems?2021-04-07T16:58:02+08:00

Flake Flooring Systems are very strong, durable, modern and hygiene.  The surface when fully cured, can withstand the weights of trucks, 4WD’s, forklifts and heavy vehicles with ease. Domestic garages have cars driven over and parked for long periods at a time. For a precaution and added protection for your new Flake floor we like to suggest carpet mats placed under tyres as it has been known that some tyres may leach chemicals and stain the Flake floor or sometimes the Tyre will stick to the floor resulting in pulling up your floor when you drive off.

How to maintain Flake Flooring Systems?2021-04-07T16:57:21+08:00

Seamless floors are the lowest maintenance floors available today, only requiring a very mild detergent in warm water, this is usually enough to clean. String mops are not recommended as they leave a “dirty film” over the surface. Sponge mops or stiff brooms and water.  Stone Resin Flooring Systems require a little more elbow grease to keep clean, stiff broom and machine scrubbing highly recommended.

Do you have any system that can be completed faster?2021-04-07T16:56:39+08:00

Yes, our Polyurea and Polyaspartic Flooring Systems offer much faster installation times.

Polyaspartic Flooring Systems can dry much quicker, allowing a floor system to be applied in ONLY one day. Polyaspartic resins offer many benefits over traditional resins, higher abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, faster installation, and better overall performance.

How long will the area be out of service with a typical system?2021-04-07T16:42:58+08:00

Approximately 3-5 days. The typical Seamless Flake Epoxy Floor System is made for long term durability, which requires several coatings to be applied to achieve the best results. These coatings require curing time to dry between each coat, typically 16 Hours for most coatings.

How long does it take to apply a typical system?2021-04-07T16:42:19+08:00

Depending on the preparation time of the floor and coatings used, approximately 2-3 days to completion. A typical system must be traffic free (foot) for no less than 16 hours after final coat, and, 5-7 days before vehicular traffic depending on weather conditions and coating systems used. Epoxy Flooring Systems cure and harden everyday of its life, especially during the first few days.  Allowing heavy vehicles or machineries to be driven over of parked prematurely may result in damage to your new floor.

Can it be used as a safety floor / non-slip?2021-04-07T16:41:31+08:00

Yes. In cases where the surface requires slip resistance a non slip additive is added to the top coats. We can offer R10/R11/R12 slip ratings for commercial applications and wet areas. Please contact our technical team for further assistance.

Is this a commercial or domestic product?2021-04-07T16:40:40+08:00

This Product is both used in the Commercial and the Domestic markets:

  • Hospitals
  • Hotels
  • Schools / colleges / universities
  • Butcher shops
  • Food preparation areas
  • Aged care facilities
  • Clubs / sporting / RSL’s
  • Shopping Malls / Centres
  • Councils
  • State Government Institutions
Where is Flake commonly Used / Applied?2021-04-07T16:39:52+08:00

Seamless floors can be applied to most flat surfaces, including ceilings, walls and floors, internal and external areas, in both commercial and domestic applications. The surface must be solid/stable and without any movement. Joins, cracks and holes must be filled to prevent them showing through the finished job.

What advantages can I achieved from using a seamless Flake floor?2021-04-07T16:38:31+08:00
  • Long lasting flooring
  • Low maintenance with cleaning
  • Decorative seamless finish
  • Will not harbor bacteria
  • Anti-static
  • Competitive in price to a lot of surface coatings,tiles and timber.
  • Won’t crack / chip or peel
  • Cool in summer and warm in winter insulated covering.
  • Easy on the feet not like tiles
  • No grout lines for spills to stain
  • If damaged easy to repair
  • Perfect for wet areas
  • Accidental flooding will not harm this type of floor
  • Looks amazing in arrange of colours and styles
  • Mix and match your own colours
  • Smooth or non-slip
  • Noise reducing
  • Will not yellow or change colour
  • Oils and petrol’s wipe clean off (must be within a short time frame of the leak or spill)
  • Fire resistant
  • Floors can be completed in one – three days depending on products used and job time frames
What is the film thickness of a typical finished floor?2021-04-07T16:37:39+08:00

Approximately 2.5-3.0 mm thick for a typical coating system.

How much does a typical Flake system cost?2021-04-07T16:37:00+08:00

It depends on the size of individual job, the required preparation of the subfloor and the type of system required.  Flake flooring system typically starts from $59/sqm.

What is a typical Flake system made up of?2021-04-07T16:35:40+08:00

First step:            Progressive Grinding and Surface Preparations

Second step:      Application of first coat  – Epoxy Primer (Basecoat)

Third step:          Application of second coat  -Epoxy high solids Base-coat

Forth step:          Casting Flakes and Chips over the wet epoxy

Final step:           Top clear coat – Clear/High Transparent UV Stabilized Polyurethane finish

Can we apply Shimicoat products over timber floorboards or slate?2021-04-07T16:35:01+08:00

No. This is because timber boards have movements and also they are unstable.  Slates are flaky and unconsolidated.

Can I use a steam mop to clean my Shimi Floor?2021-04-07T16:34:07+08:00

Yes you can, however, it is not necessary, as Shimi Floors are easy to clean with a mop and general purpose detergent

Can you waterproof cement?2021-04-07T15:50:37+08:00

Yes.  Basecoat has waterproofing properties.

Can I have different colours / types of finishes in different rooms?2021-04-07T15:49:47+08:00

Yes.

During installation and while still wet, if bugs and flies get stuck in the epoxy, how do you fix it?2021-04-07T15:48:53+08:00

We can remove the flies and insects, patch and repair the surface and recoat the area.  This is being covered under Shimicoat Warranty.

How much does the design works cost?2021-04-07T15:47:44+08:00

The design work is a free of charge service to our valued clients to assist them with the best flooring system that is practical, modern, hygienic and suitable to their needs.

What are Shimi Floors?2021-04-07T15:40:42+08:00

Shimi Floors are environmentally friendly, seamless, non-toxic, durable, non-slip and affordable. Shimi floors evokes interest and desire. We are in the business of creating unique designer floors at affordable prices. The product we use is called epoxy resin but not just any resin – ours are made exclusively for us and only trained applicators can apply our products. Two or three parts resins are poured on a prepared surface, trowelled or rolled out then, left to cure, harden or set. Because it’s broadcast across the floor, it is seamless and bonds direct to the substrate (concrete). Please contact Shimicoat Technical Team for further advice.

What type of flooring surfaces can your product be applied to?2021-04-07T15:42:00+08:00

Shimi Floors can be laid over any new, old and damaged concrete or ever over existing and deteriorating tiles. We can even waterproof, cove, ramp and level the floor. In relation to tiles, we use a self-levelling solution that runs through the grout lines, making the surface level, seamless and cement like, a better alternative to jack hammering up older tiles.  We do not recommend our products to be applied over timber floorboards and floors with movements.

How much do Shimi Floors cost?2021-04-07T15:42:49+08:00

All our prices include full installation plus GST and we only charge you for the supply and lay of the product, starting from $49/sqm and it may attract extra charges based on the condition of your concrete surface and the type of Shimi Floor you select.  The design work is free.  You get dedicated chemist to your job for expert advice and selection of most suitable flooring system for your need.

How long does it take to lay a Shimi Floor?2021-04-07T15:43:44+08:00

One day preparation and one day Installation, Fast and Easy.  Overnight curing and hardening process.

Generally allow two to three days to complete your floor.  If required, we can be work 24/7 to speed up the process, get back to normal and complete the job quicker.

Curing process of Shimi Floors are generally progressive and require softer approach during the first few days.  For example,

  1. Do not drive over a freshly installed Shimi Floors.
  2. Do not scratch furniture on the new Shimi Floors.

Ideally, it may take up to two weeks for Shimi Floor to reach its optimal durability and toughness.

If the concrete cracks, will the product crack?2021-04-07T15:44:43+08:00

Similar to a tiled surface, if the concrete slab cracks underneath, the crack may come to surface and become visible on Shimi Floor.  The damage easily repaired by our trade personnel.

How do you clean Shimi floors?2021-04-07T15:45:26+08:00

Clean as often as you wish and when needed.  We recommend once a week surface cleaning with any general purpose detergent.

Regular cleaning includes using a mop giving it a wet (with neutral detergent or vinegar) and dry clean. Periodic cleaning includes using a polish to maintain the integrity of the level of shine you desire.

Is walking on epoxy noisy?2021-04-07T15:46:18+08:00

The sound quality is similar to a walking on tiled surface.  Unlike floating boards, you are walking on a solid floor and there is no clicking sound.

How long does polyaspartic take to cure?2024-05-21T16:20:03+08:00

It’s extremely fast-curing, typically taking around 4 hours to transform from a liquid product to a surface you can walk on. It’s temperature stability also means that it can be installed in virtually any weather– there’s no need to wait for an optimal forecast or season to plan your flooring project.

Is a polyaspartic floor coating easy to install?2024-05-21T16:20:32+08:00

Shimicoat polyaspartic coatings come in an easy 1:1 mix ratio and with full installation instructions. The fast-curing properties means that it does require absolute precision, so it’s best carried out by professional installers or DIYers with some experience.

What colours and finishes does polyaspartic come in?2024-05-21T16:21:04+08:00

Virtually anything you require. The colour palette choices are across the spectrum and flaked and/or textured finishes can be included as required. Bespoke demarcation can also be added, such as lines, hatching, grids etc, dependent on individual needs.

Where is polyaspartic flooring best installed?2024-05-21T16:21:33+08:00

It’s ideal in any exterior location – especially those that are exposed to the sun. Its high stability means that it doesn’t suffer from yellowing over time, nor will the vibrancy of the colours fade. It’s also a popular choice for locations where chemical spills are likely, thanks to its highly resistant properties. Its flexible makeup also makes polyaspartic a great choice for high traffic areas – such as garages or anywhere that needs to withstand heavy vehicles, machinery, or impacts.

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