Metallic Dream Epoxy | Premium...
$220.00
Metallic Dream Epoxy | Premium Designer Metallic Resin
Metallic Dream Epoxy is a professional grade, 100% solids epoxy system engineered specifically for high-end metallic floor applications. Unlike standard resins, this is a design driven system that provides the extended open time necessary to create one of a kind floors with incredible depth, flowing movement, and a mirror-like high gloss finish.
Used in residential living spaces, showrooms, and retail environments, Metallic Dream delivers the perfect balance of workability, artistic control, and visual impact.
The Metallic Dream Advantage: 60 Minutes of Control
Metallic epoxy is an art form, and art takes time. Most failures occur when the resin "locks up" too quickly, leaving harsh roller marks and stagnant patterns. Metallic Dream Epoxy is formulated to stay fluid for up to 60 minutes, allowing installers to:
Manipulate Movement: Soften and blend colors using a Magic Trowel without the resin tacking up.
Minimize Bubbles: Extended leveling time allows air to escape more efficiently.
Achieve 3D Depth: High-build, 100% solids chemistry creates the "thick" look that makes metallic pigments pop.
The Professional System Build
The Foundation: Concrete must be mechanically ground. For porous slabs, use our Water Based Epoxy Primer to prevent outgassing.
The Base Coat: Apply a solid pigmented base using our 100% Solids Self Leveling Epoxy. Black is the industry standard for maximum contrast.
The Money Coat: Apply Metallic Dream mixed with your chosen pigments. Manipulate the surface with an 18-inch Magic Trowel for an organic, marble-like flow.
The Shield: Finish with Premera T2 Topcoat for elite scratch resistance that preserves the high gloss shine.
Mixing and Application Guidelines
Pro Tip: Never "whip" the product. Mixing at high speeds traps micro-bubbles in the resin that can ruin a glass-finish floor. Use a low-speed paddle mixer and ensure pigments are fully dispersed before pouring.
Coverage: Approximately 150 sq. ft. per kit (50 sq. ft. per gallon for proper flow).
Mix Speed: Keep drill under 300 RPM.
Working Time: Up to 60 minutes on the floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is metallic epoxy durable?Yes. When protected with a high-performance topcoat like Premera T2, metallic floors are highly durable and suitable for both residential and high-traffic commercial interiors.
Do I need to use a black base coat?Black is the preferred base because it acts as a "canvas" that makes metallic colors appear more vibrant and 3-dimensional. However, other colors can be used for custom aesthetic effects.
Is every metallic floor different?Yes. Because the epoxy shifts and levels as it cures, no two floors can ever be identical. Each installation is a unique piece of custom art.
Can I use multiple metallic colors?Absolutely. Professionals often use a primary color and 1-2 accent colors to create dynamic, marble-like movement and visual interest.
Is this system beginner friendly?No. Metallic epoxy requires a deep understanding of timing and flow. We recommend practicing on sample boards before attempting a full-scale floor.
How much working time do I have?Metallic Dream provides up to 60 minutes of open time, giving you the longest window in the industry to manipulate your design.
What topcoat should I use?We highly recommend Nukote Premera T2 Topcoat Gloss. High-gloss floors show scratches easily; Premera T2 provides a glass-hard shield that protects the aesthetic.
LABPOX 40 UV Resistant Epoxy -...
from $175.00
LABPOX 40 UV | UV Resistant Epoxy for Metallic and Decorative Floors - 3 Gallon Kit
LABPOX 40 UV is a premium, 100% solids, 2 to 1 epoxy system engineered specifically for metallic and high end decorative flooring. Unlike standard epoxies that can "amber" or yellow quickly, this system offers superior UV resistance and crystal clarity, making it one of the most trusted options for light colored systems and metallic applications.
This product is the preferred choice for installers who require an extended 60 minute working time. This generous window allows for the proper manipulation of metallic pigments, ensuring deep flow and consistent "lava" effects that cheaper, fast setting epoxies simply cannot achieve.
This is a world class decorative epoxy designed for appearance driven floors where flow, clarity, and color stability are the only things that matter.
Where LABPOX 40 UV Fits in Your System
Metallic Body Coat: The primary layer for high end decorative metallic floors.
Light Color Systems: Ideal for white or light gray floors requiring improved UV stability.
High Build Clear Coat: Used as a thick, clear layer over decorative art or logos.
Pro Note: While LABPOX 40 UV is incredibly durable, it is an epoxy. To achieve the ultimate glass like super high gloss finish and provide your floor with maximum scratch resistance, we recommend pairing this system with Premera T2.
Key Features and Benefits
Extended 60 Minute Pot Life: Plenty of time to guide pigments and eliminate roller marks.
Superior UV Resistance: Significantly higher resistance to yellowing compared to industrial epoxies.
Excellent Defoaming: Engineered to release air naturally, even at high build (30-50 mil) applications.
High Clarity Finish: Transparent enough to allow metallic pigments to "pop" with three dimensional depth.
Blush & Fisheye Resistant: Formulated to resist surface defects caused by humidity or substrate inconsistencies.
Mixing Instructions
Precision in the mixing process is critical to ensure the chemical bond and structural integrity of the LABPOX 40 UV system.
Combine Components: Pour 2 containers of Part A (Base) into a large mixing bucket, being careful not to pour material onto the sides of the larger bucket.
Add Activator: Pour the Part B (Activator) directly into the center of the large bucket. Again, ensure no material gets on the sides of the Base bucket; failing to do so may leave unmixed resin that causes soft spots on your finished floor.
Mixing Time: Mix full kits with a Box mixer for 2 minutes. Use a low-speed drill (300 to 450 RPM) to minimize air entrapment. Mix partial kits with a Paddle Mixer.
Scrape Sides: During the mixing process, make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing container thoroughly so no unmixed material remains.
Immediate Placement: Pour the material onto the floor immediately after mixing. Leaving 100% solids epoxy in the bucket will cause it to exotherm (heat up) and ruin your working time.
Application Guidelines
To achieve the signature depth of a metallic floor, LABPOX 40 UV must be applied at a much higher film build than standard coatings.
Metallic Movement: Apply at a thickness of 30 to 50 mils. This high build volume allows the metallic pigments to stay suspended so they can move naturally and create depth during the cure.
Design Technique: Use an 18 Inch Magic Trowel to guide the pigments into your chosen pattern.
Contamination Warning: Ensure the job site is a clean environment. Avoid sweat, water, aerosols, or air movement near the wet floor.
⚠️ Metallic Epoxy Installation Tip: Do not apply in direct sunlight or on hot surfaces. Additionally, ensure all HVAC vents are directed away from the floor and turn off all fans. Moving air will cause the epoxy to skin over before it has a chance to properly lay down, ruining the metallic flow and leaving surface ripples.
Coverage and Cure Schedule
Application Type
Approx. Coverage
Metallic Body Coat (High Depth)
50 Sq. Ft. Per Gallon
Solid Color / Base Coat
133 – 150 Sq. Ft. Per Gallon
Super Opaque White
100 Sq. Ft. Per Gallon
Working Time: 60 Minutes
Tack Free: 9 Hours
Recoat Window: 9 to 24 Hours
Full Cure: 7 Days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LABPOX 40 UV truly UV stable?It is one of the most UV resistant epoxies on the market, but it is still an epoxy. Over several years of exposure to direct sunlight, it will eventually amber. For permanent UV protection, always topcoat with Premera T2.
Why is the 60 minute working time important?Metallic floors require manipulation with a Magic Trowel to look their best. Standard epoxies set up too fast, leaving you with harsh lines or flat spots. The 60 minute window allows the pigments to flow and create that 3D depth.
Can I use this for a solid color floor?Yes. It is an excellent choice for light colored solid floors because of its improved color stability and clarity.
What causes fisheyes in my metallic floor?Fisheyes are almost always caused by surface contaminants. Avoid using aerosol sprays or air fresheners in the building, and ensure the installer does not drip sweat into the wet material.
Do I need to sand before topcoating?If you topcoat within 24 hours, you can go right over it. If you wait longer than 24 hours, you must sand the surface to a dull finish to ensure the topcoat bonds properly.
What is the best way to clean the floor before applying LABPOX 40 UV?After mechanical grinding, you must vacuum the floor thoroughly. We recommend a solvent wipe with Acetone to ensure no fine dust remains, as dust can cause surface profile issues in high build coatings.
Can I apply this over a moisture vapor barrier?Yes. LABPOX 40 UV works perfectly over a moisture barrier. Labpox MVB FAST – 100% Solids Epoxy Moisture Vapor Barrier to prevent the metallic finish from bubbling or delaminating.
What happens if a fan is blowing on the project while it cures?Moving air will blow contaminants on to your wet surface and this can be catastrophic. Wind can also cause the surface to skin over prematurely. This prevents the epoxy from laying down properly and stops the metallic pigments from moving, which will leave you with an uneven, wavy finish.
Can I use a torch to remove bubbles?Yes, a light pass with a propane torch or a spike roller can help release surface bubbles. However, because LABPOX 40 UV has excellent air release properties, you will find you need to do this much less than with standard resins.
How do I achieve the best three dimensional depth?Apply the material at a minimum of 50 SFPG. The thicker the application, the more room the metallic pigments have to sink and swirl, creating that signature glass like depth and movement.
LABPOX 30 100% Solids Epoxy - ...
from $167.00
LABPOX 30 100% Solids Epoxy | Professional Flooring System
LABPOX 30 is a professional grade, 100% solids epoxy engineered for installers who demand reliability and extended working time. Whether used as a base coat, body coat, or the foundation for metallic epoxy systems, LABPOX 30 delivers the consistency required for high performance industrial, commercial, and residential environments.
The Professional Advantage: Unlike limited use epoxies that flash quickly, LABPOX 30 provides a balanced 45 to 60 minute working window, ensuring superior flow, pinhole mitigation, and a glass like finish even on large scale installations.
Technical Performance Snapshot
Property
ASTM Standard / Value
Mix Ratio
2 Parts A to 1 Part B
Compressive Strength
13,000 psi
Tensile Strength
8,500 psi
Shore D Hardness
82
Elongation
14 percent
VOC Content
9 to 10 g per L (Low VOC)
Pot Life (72°F)
50 minutes
Where LABPOX 30 Fits in a Flooring System
1. As a High Adhesion Base Coat
Provides a consistent, durable foundation for solid color, flake, or quartz broadcast systems. LABPOX 30 is self priming and can be applied directly to properly prepared concrete under the right conditions.
2. As a Metallic Body Coat ("The Money Coat")
Specifically optimized for metallic epoxy systems. The extended open time allows for intricate pigment movement and pattern development before the resin sets.
3. As an Intermediate Build Coat
Increases overall system thickness and impact resistance in heavy traffic industrial or warehouse environments.
Approximate Coverage Rates
Application Type
Square Feet Per Gallon (SFPG)
Metallic Body Coat
50 SFPG
Metallic Base Coat
80 to 135 SFPG
Vinyl Flake Receiver Coat
133 to 150 SFPG
Commercial/Industrial Solid Color
80 to 133 SFPG
LABPOX 30 vs. Typical 100% Solids Epoxy
Why professional installers choose LABPOX 30 over standard alternatives:
Pinhole Mitigation: Advanced technology reduces surface defects by up to 98 percent in pre tinted versions.
Extended Control: 60 minutes of working time vs. the standard 20 to 30 minutes of typical epoxies.
Chemical Resistance: Superior resistance to amine blush and common site contamination.
Cure Schedule (At 72°F)
Working Time: 60 Minutes
Tack Free: 9 Hours
Recoat Window: 9 to 24 Hours
Foot Traffic: 24 Hours
Full Chemical Cure: 7 Days
System Limitations
LABPOX 30 requires a dry substrate. Moisture content must be below acceptable limits unless a moisture mitigation system is used. Not intended for exterior applications.
Recommended System Setup
For a guaranteed bond and long term finish, follow this professional stack:
Primer: LAB Surface Epoxy Primer or LABPOX MVB Clear Fast for moisture vapor barriers.
Base/Body: Apply LABPOX 30 (Solid Color or Metallic).
Topcoat: Seal with LABFAST Xtra Time (Polyaspartic) or LABFENDER Polyurethane for maximum abrasion resistance.
Mixing and Application Requirements
Application Equipment
1/8 inch notched rubber squeegee
3/8 inch nap woven shed resistant roller cover
3 inch chip brush
Mixing Instructions
Precision in the mixing process is critical to ensure the chemical bond and structural integrity of the LABPOX 30 system.
Combine Components: Pour 2 containers of Part A (Base) into a large mixing bucket, being careful not to pour material onto the sides of the larger bucket.
Add Activator: Pour the Part B (Activator) directly into the center of the large bucket. Again, ensure no material gets on the sides of the Base bucket; failing to do so may leave unmixed resin that causes soft spots on your finished floor.
Mixing Time: Mix full kits with a Box mixer for 2 minutes. Use a low-speed drill (300 to 450 RPM) to minimize air entrapment.
Scrape Sides: During the mixing process, make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing container thoroughly so no unmixed material remains.
Immediate Placement: Once the product is properly mixed, it needs to be immediately poured onto the floor. Leaving mixed material for too long in a mixing pail will create an exothermic reaction (rapid heat buildup), rendering the product unusable.
Application Procedure
Application Procedure Pour mixed material in a 20 foot long 12 inch wide ribbon Do not drain or scrape remaining material from the bucket onto the floor. Spread to uniform thickness with a notched squeegee and roll North South and back roll East West to achieve uniform coverage. Roller should be a 3/8 inch shed resistant epoxy roller cover.
PRO TIP: For metallic floors, use the extended 60 minute window to manipulate your pigments with a 9/16 inch looped roller or notched squeegee to create depth and movement before the product begins its initial set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LABPOX 30 good for metallic epoxy floors?Yes. It is exceptionally well suited for metallic systems due to its 45 to 60 minute working time and excellent flow characteristics, allowing installers to create flawless designs with proper pigment movement.
Can this be used as a base coat?Yes. LABPOX 30 works incredibly well as a dependable, high strength base coat for a wide variety of systems, including solid color, flake, and quartz.
Is this product beginner friendly?Because of the extended working time, it is more forgiving than fast cure epoxies, but proper surface preparation and installation technique are still required.
How long is the actual working time?You will have approximately 60 minutes of working time at 70°F and 45 minutes at 80°F. Humidity and surface temperature can also affect these windows.
What is the mix ratio for LABPOX 30?It is a two component system with a precise mix ratio of 2 Parts A to 1 Part B (2A:1B) by volume.
Can this be used for flake floors?Absolutely. It performs as a reliable receiver coat for broadcast flake systems, providing enough open time to ensure a consistent flake distribution.
Why is the "Extended Working Time" so important?Standard epoxies can flash quickly in the bucket, leading to stress and mistakes. LABPOX 30 gives you a massive window to maintain a wet edge on large floors and execute intricate metallic designs without the product locking up prematurely.
Does this require a topcoat?Yes. Like all 100 percent solids epoxies, a UV stable topcoat (like Polyaspartic or Urethane) is highly recommended to prevent ambering and provide long term scratch resistance.
LABPOX LV UV Ultra Low Viscosi...
$200.00
LABPOX LV UV | Ultra Low Viscosity Metallic Epoxy
LABPOX LV UV is a professional grade, 100% solids, 2 to 1 epoxy system engineered for decorative clear and metallic flooring systems where superior flow and finish quality are the top priority. With an ultra low viscosity of approximately 300 cps and a working time of 90 to 100 minutes, this system gives installers exceptional control over movement, leveling, and clarity.
Built on high performance cycloaliphatic polyamine technology, LABPOX LV UV is designed as a topcoat or body coat for metallic epoxy and clear resin flooring systems. It offers one of the longest working times in the category, enhanced UV resistance, excellent defoaming, and a clean, high end final appearance.
If your goal is a clear or metallic epoxy floor with superior flow, cleaner movement, and refined finish quality, this is one of the best products in the category.
Where LABPOX LV UV Fits in Your System
Metallic Body Coat: Ideal for decorative metallic floors requiring extended flow and work time.
Clear Body Coat: Excellent for clear resin systems where appearance and depth matter.
Topcoat Epoxy: Designed for clear or metallic systems that require superior leveling.
Decorative Spaces: Strong fit for office, retail, hospitality, and high visibility residential spaces.
Technical Performance Snapshot
Property
Value
Mix Ratio
2 Parts A to 1 Part B
Viscosity
300 cps (Ultra Low)
Working Time
90 to 100 minutes
Tack Free
14 hours
Recoat Window
14 to 24 hours
Full Cure
7 Days
Mixing Instructions
Because this is an ultra low viscosity specialty epoxy, proper mixing is critical to maintain consistency and finish quality.
Pre Mix Part A: Mechanically mix Part A before combining to fully suspend all components.
Mix Ratio: Combine 2 parts Part A with 1 part Part B.
Mix Time & Technique: Mix for 3 minutes using a Box Mixer on a low speed drill turning at 300 to 450 RPM. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bucket thoroughly.
Immediate Placement: Once mixed, pour the material onto the floor as desired to create your metallic design. Leaving it in the pail too long will cause a heat reaction (exotherm) and ruin the product.
Coverage by Film Build
Thickness
Coverage (Sq. Ft. / GAL)
Typical Use
8 mils
200 Sq. Ft.
Thin clear coat or light body coat
12 mils
133 Sq. Ft.
Standard clear or metallic build
30 mils
54 Sq. Ft.
High build metallic applications
50 mils
32 Sq. Ft.
Maximum depth decorative effects
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes LABPOX LV UV different from standard epoxy?Its ultra low viscosity and extremely long working time give installers much greater control over flow, pigment movement, and final appearance. It allows the resin to self level more effectively than thicker industrial epoxies.
Is this a good epoxy for metallic floors?Yes. This is one of the best choices for metallic floors that require depth, clarity, and an extended window to manipulate designs.
How long is the working time?You typically have 90 to 100 minutes depending on temperature and site conditions. This is nearly double the working time of standard epoxies.
Is this product UV stable?It offers enhanced UV resistance compared to standard epoxy systems. While all epoxy will eventually amber if exposed to direct sunlight, this cycloaliphatic formulation provides superior color stability for decorative metallic floors.
Why is this better for metallic floors than standard resins?Standard epoxies are too thick and set up too fast, which freezes the metallic pigments in place. LABPOX LV UV has an ultra low viscosity that allows pigments to flow and swirl for the entire 100 minute working window, creating a natural three dimensional look.
What is the best tool for applying LABPOX LV UV?For metallic designs, a Magic Trowel is essential for laying out your metallic design. For applications where high build depth is required, use a 24 inch red rubber 3/16 inch notched squeegee and if necessary an 18 inch Mohair or Microfiber Roller Cover to completely cover the floor.
Do I need to sand before applying a second coat?If you apply the next coat within 24 hours, no sanding is needed. After 24 hours, you must sand the surface to a dull finish to ensure a mechanical bond.
Can I use this for heavy duty industrial floors?This product is best suited for residential and commercial decorative systems. For heavy industrial production floors with high forklift traffic, we recommend our industrial grade solids like LABPOX 30.
What happens if the material gets hot in the bucket?This is an exotherm reaction. If the bucket feels hot, do not pour it on the floor. The material is beginning to cure rapidly and pouring it will result in surface defects and a failed installation.
Is it safe for indoor use?Yes. LABPOX LV UV is 100 percent solids and low VOC. It has very low odor, making it safe for use in occupied buildings and retail spaces.
LABPOX LV 3D UV Ultra Low Visc...
$184.00
LABPOX LV 3D UV | Ultra Low Viscosity Epoxy for Advanced Metallic Floors
LABPOX LV 3D UV is a premium, 100% solids, 2 to 1 specialty epoxy system engineered specifically for high end metallic flooring where maximum movement, depth, and creative control are required. With an ultra low viscosity and an industry leading 90 to 100 minute working time, this system allows installers to manipulate metallic epoxy far longer than standard epoxies.
Built on high performance cycloaliphatic polyamine technology, this resin is designed to produce a superior aesthetic finish with incredible clarity. It is the preferred choice for barber shops, hair and nail salons, custom home garages and automotive retail facilities where a glass like three dimensional effect is the primary goal.
This is a specialty metallic epoxy designed for installers who want full control over their design and refuse to be limited by short working times or thick, restrictive resins.
Where This Product Fits in Your System
Advanced 3D Metallic Floors: The ultimate body coat for deep, moving metallic effects.
Large Scale Decorative Projects: Ideal for big pours where you need extra time to maintain a wet edge.
High Clarity Clear Coats: Can be used as a thick, clear decorative layer over artwork or logos.
Office and Retail Spaces: Provides a high density surface that prevents dirt penetration for easy maintenance.
Key Features and Benefits
Ultra Low Viscosity (300 cps): One of the thinnest metallic resins available, allowing pigments to travel further and blend more naturally.
90 to 100 Minute Working Time: Nearly double the working time of standard epoxies for effortless 3D floor creations.
Superior UV Resistance: Engineered for the best possible color stability in its category.
No Amine Blush: Cures to a clean, high gloss finish without the oily film common in cheaper resins.
Excellent Defoaming: Formulated to release air naturally, even when applied at heavy 50 mil thicknesses.
High Resistance to Contamination: Specifically designed to resist fisheyes and surface defects.
Mixing Instructions
Because of the extended pot life, proper mixing is vital to ensure the cycloaliphatic resins activate fully.
Pre Mix Part A: Mechanically mix Part A for 1 minute before combining to ensure all resins are homogeneous.
Mix Ratio: Combine 2 parts Part A with 1 part Part B in the larger bucket.
Mix Time: Mix for a minimum of 3 minutes using a low speed drill (300 to 450 RPM).
Technique: Scrape the sides and bottom of the container thoroughly. For best results, use a box or cage mixer.
Immediate Placement: Even with a long working time, the material should be poured onto the floor in ribbons immediately after mixing to prevent heat build up in the pail.
Pro Note: To achieve the ultimate glass like finish and maximum scratch resistance, we recommend pairing this system with Premera T2 once the epoxy has reached its recoat window.
Application Guidelines
To achieve the signature depth of a 3D floor, LABPOX LV 3D UV must be applied at a high build to allow the low viscosity resin to flow and carry the pigments.
Design Depth: Apply at a maximum 50 square feet per gallon. This provides a thickness of roughly 30 to 32 mils, allowing pigments to sink and swirl for maximum visual impact.
Technique: Use a squeegee to spread the material, followed by an 18 Inch Magic Trowel to manipulate the metallic design.
Ideal Conditions: Best results are achieved when the floor and air temperature are between 60°F and 85°F. Avoid high humidity (above 85%) during the application.
⚠️ ENVIRONMENTAL WARNING: Do not apply in direct sunlight or on sunbaked surfaces. Ensure all HVAC vents are directed away from the floor and turn off all fans. Moving air will cause the epoxy to skin over prematurely, which ruins the self leveling and stops the metallic movement.
Coverage and Cure Schedule
Application Type
Coverage (Sq. Ft. / GAL)
3D Metallic Body Coat (30 Mils)
40 - 50 Sq. Ft.
Standard Metallic Build (12 Mils)
50 Sq. Ft.
Thin Base Coat / Primer (8 Mils)
200 Sq. Ft.
Working Time: 90 to 100 Minutes
Tack Free: 14 Hours
Recoat Window: 14 to 24 Hours
Light Foot Traffic: 48 Hours
Full Cure: 7 Days
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 3D UV version different from standard metallic epoxy?It features ultra low viscosity (300 cps) and a 90 to 100 minute working time. This allows the resin to flow more like water, which gives the metallic pigments total freedom to move and create deep visual effects.
Does this product resist yellowing?Yes. LABPOX LV 3D UV is formulated with cycloaliphatic polyamine technology, providing some of the best UV resistance in the epoxy category.
Why is low viscosity important for metallic floors?Thick epoxies "trap" pigments in place. A low viscosity resin allows the metallic particles to swirl and sink, creating a three dimensional look rather than a flat, painted appearance.
Can I use this for a clear topcoat?Yes. Its high clarity and excellent defoaming make it an ideal choice for a clear build coat over decorative designs or logos.
How long do I have to wait before walking on the floor?Because of the extended working time and ultra low viscosity, this system takes longer to reach initial hardness than standard epoxies. You should wait at least 48 hours for light foot traffic. For heavy furniture or vehicle traffic, wait a full 72 hours to ensure the resin has reached its full chemical resistance and hardness.
Can I mix multiple metallic colors together?Yes. One of the greatest advantages of the ultra low viscosity in LABPOX LV 3D UV is how beautifully it allows different metallic pigments to blend. You can "ribbon" different colors into each other or mist the surface with a secondary color to create natural veining and marble effects that stay fluid longer.
Do I need a specific base coat color for metallic epoxy?Yes. Metallic pigments are translucent. To achieve the best results, you should apply a solid color epoxy base coat (like LABPOX 35) first. Black is the most common choice as it makes the metallic colors pop with maximum depth, but lighter base colors can be used to create softer, more subtle finishes.
How do I prevent bubbles or "pinholes" in my metallic finish?Because metallic epoxy is applied at a high build, any air escaping from the concrete (outgassing) will be trapped. You must ensure the slab is perfectly sealed with a primer or moisture barrier like MVB FAST before applying your metallic body coat. This ensures the 3D layer stays smooth and glass like.
What is the best way to create "cells" or "craters" in the design?If you are looking for specific effects like cells or hammered metal textures, you can lightly mist the surface with 99 percent Isopropyl Alcohol while the epoxy is still in its 90 minute working window. The alcohol breaks the surface tension and causes the metallic pigments to disperse into unique, circular patterns.
Can I apply this over a previous coating?Yes, but only if the existing coating is well bonded and has been mechanically sanded to a completely dull finish. If there is any gloss remaining, the new metallic layer will not bond properly. Always perform a small test area to ensure compatibility between different resin systems.
What happens if the material starts to heat up in the bucket?This is known as an exotherm reaction. If the mixed material sits in the pail too long, it will begin to smoke or harden rapidly. If you feel the bucket getting hot, STOP RIGHT THERE! It's ruined. You've left it in the bucket too long and you'll create all kinds of cleanup challenges if you dump that on the floor.