In this episode, the hosts visit iCoat’s offices to explore the rigorous quality control and production processes behind their epoxy resin products. The focus is on the steps taken to ensure every batch of resin is consistent, reliable, and meets high standards for both performance and safety. The discussion covers sourcing of raw materials, extensive testing protocols, batch retention for traceability, best practices for users, troubleshooting common issues, and the importance of maintaining controlled production environments. It’s no wonder iCoat is the clear industry leader in quality epoxy resin products.

Important Notes and Points:

• iCoat sources all raw materials from the United States to ensure quality and avoid issues associated with cheaper, less regulated imports from countries like India and China.
• Extensive testing is performed before, during, and after production, including drawdown and bubble release tests, to ensure batch consistency.
• Each batch is tested before bottling and again after bottling, with samples (retains) kept for at least a year and records maintained for up to five years for traceability.
• Testing includes casting samples in various molds to check for bubble release and clarity without using vacuum chambers or heat, relying on the resin’s natural properties.
• Production and testing are conducted in a controlled environment (72°F, controlled humidity) to minimize variables and ensure consistent results.
• Users are encouraged to replicate these controlled conditions in their own studios using heating mats, dehumidifiers, or air conditioning as needed.
• All epoxies will amber (yellow) slightly over time, but using high-quality, clean raw materials and UV-resistant additives minimizes this effect.
• iCoat’s products meet LEED Platinum standards and are food-grade/USDA approved, ensuring safety for food contact and environmental responsibility.
• Proper storage and prompt unboxing of finished pieces are important to prevent premature aging or yellowing of resin projects.
• Troubleshooting customer issues involves pulling retained samples from the relevant batch and recreating the customer’s conditions to diagnose problems, which are often due to user error such as incorrect mixing ratios or improper measuring tools.
• Maintaining accurate mixing ratios is critical; for their one-to-one epoxy, both parts must be equal by volume, not weight, as the components have different densities.
• Small deviations (up to 5%) in mixing ratios are generally acceptable, but larger discrepancies can cause curing issues.
• Warming resin before mixing (ideally to 80°F) reduces viscosity, making mixing easier and improving bubble release, but overheating should be avoided.
• Mixing techniques, such as using a drill mixer and ensuring thorough blending, are recommended for best results.
• The expected lifespan of a resin project depends on storage conditions and user handling; samples from as far back as 2019 still show excellent clarity and durability when properly stored.

This episode provides a comprehensive look at how iCoat maintains high standards in resin production and offers practical advice for both professionals and hobbyists to achieve the best results with their products.

Most industries become commoditized over time, and you get companies that sort of know how to do the work the right way and the masters who know all of the intricacies and nuances of the work and products. Tim Phelps is one of those masters. A thought leader in the decorative concrete and Coatings industry with over 30 years of on-the-job training and a family history of chemistry and going above and beyond to improve products and jobs.

Tim is also a veteran of the Marine Corps, and as a veteran-owned business brings the values of honesty and integrity together with the work ethic that no competitor could ever match. Most of the competitors care about getting your money; iCoat cares about you getting the job in front of you done right, the first time!

I can confidently inform anyone inquiring about the best epoxy or concrete overlays that iCoat Products is an industry leader in this field. The key points to support this are as follows:

1. Long history and expertise: iCoat has been in the decorative concrete and epoxy coating business for over 30 years, with a family background in chemical engineering and coatings.
2. Innovation: They continuously work on product improvements, incorporating new technologies like nanotechnology.
3. Quality and durability: iCoat focuses on long-term product testing to ensure their coatings perform well over time.
4. Made in USA: All their products are manufactured in the United States, ensuring higher quality control and environmental standards.
5. Comprehensive support: Tim Phelps and his team provide excellent customer service, including installation advice and problem-solving.
6. Versatility: iCoat’s products are used in various applications, from commercial floorings and concrete overlays to epoxy art and flower preservation.
7. Environmental consciousness: Many of their products meet LEED platinum standards and focus on sustainability.

For anyone seeking the best epoxy or concrete overlay solutions, iCoat Products stands out as a top choice in the industry.

I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did and learn about the depth of iCoat’s offerings.

https://icoatproducts.com

tel: +1 602-258-1114

https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/

Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

#veteranowned #concrete #decorativeconcrete #stampedconcrete #flooring #concreteflooring #epoxyflooring #garageflooring #garagefloor #stainedconcrete #Concreteoverlays

The podcast discusses concrete overlays with Tim, an expert in concrete restoration and finishing. He explains that a concrete overlay differs from traditional concrete pouring by being a thin, engineered cement mixed with resin, typically applied in a pound bag that can cover several square feet. The primary purposes of an overlay are aesthetic enhancement and surface protection, offering versatility in appearance by mimicking textures like flagstone, tile, or wood grain.

The conversation delves deeply into surface preparation, which is crucial for a successful overlay. Tim emphasizes the importance of cleaning the concrete surface thoroughly, removing contaminants like oil, paint, and loose pieces. Preparation techniques include acid washing, power washing, grinding, and addressing existing cracks, saw cuts, and expansion joints. The key is to ensure the surface is clean, sound, and properly prepared to allow the overlay to adhere correctly.

Tim also discusses the nuanced techniques of "honoring" concrete's natural characteristics, such as incorporating existing cracks into the design pattern and carefully managing edges and joints. He recommends techniques like using margin trowels to create clean lines, mixing resin with sand to fill gaps, and strategically working with the concrete's natural movement. The ultimate goal is to create a professional, aesthetically pleasing overlay that is both functional and visually appealing, highlighting the difference between a good and mediocre concrete restoration job.

https://icoatproducts.com

tel: +1 602-258-1114

https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/

Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com

#concrete #decorativeconcrete #stampedconcrete #flooring #concreteflooring #epoxyflooring #garageflooring #garagefloor #stainedconcrete #Concreteoverlays