Epoxy does not smell great during the application and curing processes. There is nothing that can be done to avoid this, but you can and should minimize your exposure to the fumes as much as possible. But for how long do you need to be cautious? When can you start enjoying your new floor without putting up with the smell and worrying about the health risks it may pose?
The pungency of the odor that epoxy gives off varies with the brand of epoxy, and we all have different opinions of what constitutes a “really bad” smell. Therefore, it is important to remember that the smell of the epoxy and the toxicity of its fumes are not related. Just because an epoxy smells really bad doesn’t necessarily mean that it is bad for your health, and just because there is virtually no odor does not necessarily mean that it is safe. Always err on the side of caution, and pay attention to your body! If you begin to feel light-headed or nauseous, leave the area immediately and seek medical help.
In a well-ventilated area, the majority of epoxy fumes should dissipate in 1 to 3 days. There may still be a lingering odor until the epoxy fully cures, however, and the time it takes for an application to fully cure depends on many factors: temperature, moisture level, and the thickness of the application, to name a few. In a cold and damp environment, the epoxy may take significantly longer to cure, meaning there is a potential for harmful fumes for much longer than three days. Fumes also take much longer to dissipate in poorly ventilated areas. Under normal conditions, most epoxy applications will be fully cured in seven days.
As a general rule, do not enter a room that has received a new epoxy floor coating for three days unless it is absolutely necessary. Keep the room as well ventilated as possible during these three days, and wear a respirator or similar protection when you must enter the room. Wait at least seven days before spending significant amounts of time in the room.
For most people, there are no long term effects of short term exposure to epoxy fumes. When fumes are present, you may experience allergy-like symptoms such as an inflamed throat or itchy, watery eyes. If these symptoms appear, leave the area, breathe some fresh air, and do not return to the area until the symptoms have faded. If symptoms persist even after avoiding epoxy fumes for several days, seek medical help.
While you are no doubt excited to begin enjoying your new epoxy floor coating, it could be dangerous to go into your
garage and begin a project before the epoxy has fully cured. Wait at least seven days and keep the room well ventilated to ensure that any lingering harmful fumes have time to dissipate. After seven days, your new floor should be fully cured and ready to serve you well for years to come!
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