4 Key Considerations for Outdoor Epoxy Coating

Is your surface ready for epoxy?

Before epoxy is applied, it’s crucial to assess whether your surface is suitable and adequately prepared. Epoxy adheres best to clean, dry and structurally sound concrete. If it’s a painted surface or one that is crumbling or full of moisture, it may need extra preparation, or may not be suitable at all. 

The surfaces that epoxy can extend to overcoating may also include tiles, that are stuck to concrete. Some may be loose or drummy. That’s okay. We can repair a small amount. If the amount of loose tiles is too heavy, it will be more costs effective to remove the tiles completely & work with the concrete underneath.

Outdoor areas are often exposed to water, oil and general wear, and will require a proper surface grind or treatment to ensure long-term adhesion. Skipping this step will result in peeling, bubbling or delamination down the track, so it’s worth getting it right from the start, with a well-prepared surface that lays the foundation for a durable, long-lasting epoxy finish.

Will your outdoor epoxy flooring hold up in your climate?

Outdoor epoxy coatings need to look good and function well. They must also be able to withstand the elements. Harsh sun, heavy rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations can all affect how your epoxy deck coating performs.

To share an example, in Queensland’s hot, humid conditions, UV resistant epoxy coatings can be adequate (also depending on the colour choice as lighter colours will weather faster than darker colours) but you may also be guided to UV proof finishes that give you that additional protection. So what you’re seeking information on is UV stable versus UV proof. The products are vastly different.

Moisture is another key factor to consider. If water seeps into the concrete before the epoxy cures, it can compromise the bond and lead to lifting or bubbling. That’s why timing, surface testing and choosing the right type of coating matter.

What look are you after?

An epoxy coating for your space is a great way to personalise your outdoor area. We would mostly recommend a textured look & certainly with slip resistance but there’s a style that will suit most tastes. There are also plenty of colours & variations we can implement.

Do you want a natural stone finish, something bold and modern or a clean, minimal surface that blends in? The right choice can enhance the look of your home and make outdoor areas more inviting. Some homeowners choose lighter colours to keep surfaces cooler underfoot, while others opt for darker tones for a more contemporary feel.

How will the area be used?

Finally, the way you plan to use your outdoor area plays a major role in choosing the right epoxy coating, finish & style. For example, a poolside area requires slip resistance, while an outdoor dining space might need a finish that is less likely to get stained and is easy to clean. If the area sees heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, or exposure to BBQ grease or chemicals, durability becomes even more important.