A Complete Guide to Applying Metallic Epoxy Flooring
If you’ve ever seen a metallic epoxy floor, you know how incredible it looks — that deep, glossy finish with natural movement and depth that makes it feel like liquid metal. It’s one of the best ways to completely transform a dull concrete floor into something artistic and high-end. The good news? You can do it yourself. In this DIY metallic epoxy floor tutorial, we’ll show you step-by-step how to apply metallic epoxy on concrete and achieve a professional, showroom-quality result.
Can You Apply Metallic Epoxy Yourself?
Yes, you can — but metallic epoxy is a bit more challenging than standard epoxy coatings. It reacts differently, it moves as it cures, and no two floors ever look the same. That’s part of the beauty. If you’re new to epoxy, it’s a good idea to practice on a small section first to get a feel for how it spreads and flows before doing the full area.
Also, this is not a one-person job if you want a smooth, consistent finish. Ideally, you’ll have a small team helping out:
- One person mixing the epoxy.
- One person cutting in along the edges.
- One person spreading the epoxy with a squeegee.
- And one person back-rolling or applying solvent as needed.
It’s a team effort — and timing matters. Once the epoxy is mixed, you’ve got a limited window to work with it.
Before You Start: : Key Tips for Metallic Epoxy Application
There are a couple of important things to know before you even open the first bucket:
- Don’t apply Ultra Metallic if the temperature is above 25°C — it can cause bubbles and make the epoxy cure too quickly.
- Keep your products stored in a cool place before and during use.
Once you’ve got your space and materials ready, you can move on to the fun part — the application.
Step 1: Surface Preparation For Metallic Epoxy Floors
This step is absolutely critical. Metallic epoxy will highlight any imperfections in the surface, so spend some time getting it right. Repair cracks and holes with Concrete Bog, then sand down any high spots once it’s cured. When you’re happy with the surface, vacuum it thoroughly to remove every bit of dust and debris.
Step 2: How to Prime the Floor for Metallic Epoxy Coating
Next, apply a coat of Ultra Primer mixed with a Black or Charcoal Tint Pack. This gives the metallic epoxy a deep, rich base to sit on and helps it bond properly to the concrete. You’ll need around five kits, and it’s a good idea to keep a little aside (about 2L of Part A and 1L of Part B) for patching if needed later.
Step 3: Getting Ready for the Metallic Coat
Once the primer is dry, inspect the surface carefully. If there are any imperfections, you can patch them using a mix of leftover primer and Sikadur 513 Powder. After that, lightly sand the floor with 150-grit sandpaper, then vacuum and mop the area to make sure there’s no dust left. The smoother and cleaner your surface is, the better your metallic coat will look.
Step 4: Applying the Metallic Epoxy Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s where things get exciting — the metallic coat is what gives your floor that glossy, marbled effect. You’ll typically need about 10–12 kits of Ultra Metallic depending on the size of your space(Each kit covers 15–20 sqm max).
Mixing Tips:
- Add three metallic pigment packs to each kit of Part A Ultra Metallic, then stir for a solid two minutes.
- If you’re planning to add highlights, keep about 10% of your resin aside — it’s better to start subtle than overdo it.
Application Steps:
- Mix one kit at a time. Add around 1L of GP Thinners to help with bubble release and flow.
- Pour the epoxy onto the floor and spread it evenly using spiked shoes and a flat magic squeegee (not a notched one — that leaves lines).
- Each kit covers roughly 15–20 square metres. Don’t try to stretch it too far or it’ll end up looking thin and uneven.
- If you’re using highlights, mix small batches (1–1.5L at a time) and apply lightly for a natural blend.
- Have someone back-roll the surface to even it out and create that smooth, flowing metallic look.
Keep mixing and pouring continuously — don’t stop halfway or you’ll see colour changes and dry spots where one section starts to cure before the next. If you notice bubbles in the wet epoxy, a quick mist of solvent or a pass with a low-pressure air blower will take care of them.
Step 5: Finishing with a Clear Top Coat (Optional)
If you’re happy with the metallic finish, you can leave it as is. But for extra protection — especially in high-traffic areas or places with strong UV light — you might want to apply a clear top coat.
You can use either:
- Polyurethane floor coating — easier to apply, great UV protection.
- Polyaspartic floor coating — tougher, but more technical to apply.
Before applying the top coat, sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper, vacuum, and mop away all the dust. Then roll on your clear coat evenly for a durable, glossy finish.
Shopping List: Metallic Epoxy Flooring Products You’ll Need
Main Products & Accessories:
- Ultra Primer
- Ultra Metallic 15L Kits (up to 20 sqm coverage per kit)
- 3 Metallic Powder Packs per kit
- 1 Pigment Paste per kit
- Magic Squeegees
- Spike Shoes
- 460mm Trays and Roller Frames
- Brushes & White Rags
- Sikadur 513 Powder
If Applying a Clear Coat:
- Ultrakote UVSeal (Polyurethane)
- Rhino Linings Armafloor 500 AU (Polyaspartic)
- General Purpose Solvent
- Concrete Bog (available at Bunnings)
Final Thoughts: Achieving a Professional Metallic Epoxy Finish
Metallic epoxy flooring isn’t just another coating — it’s more like a piece of art that happens to be tough enough to drive on. The key to getting a great result is preparation, teamwork, and consistency. Don’t rush, don’t skip steps, and keep your materials and tools organised before you start mixing.
Once you’ve done it right, you’ll end up with a floor that’s not only incredibly durable but also completely unique. Ultra Metallic makes it possible to achieve that high-end designer look right in your own home or workshop. Just follow the process, stay patient, and enjoy watching your floor come to life. Whether you’re working on a garage, showroom, or home interior, this step-by-step metallic epoxy flooring guide helps you achieve professional results that last