What is 100% solids epoxy?
100% solids epoxy is a two-part resin system containing no water or volatile solvents, where all components convert to the final coating with no material loss during cure.
A 100% solids epoxy is a resin coating made entirely of active resin and hardener components, with zero water content and no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate during application or cure. When mixed and applied, the entire coating thickness remains as the hardened finish, unlike water-based or solvent-based alternatives where some material loss occurs as water or solvents evaporate.
This formula matters in Ontario flooring work because the thickness you apply is the thickness you get. A 100-mil wet application typically yields a 100-mil dry film. For comparison, water-based epoxy might lose 20 to 30 percent of its thickness to evaporation, requiring thicker application to reach the same final hardness. Solvent-based formulas likewise shed thickness as solvents off-gas.
The trade-off is application difficulty. 100% solids epoxy has higher viscosity (thicker consistency) and faster pot life, meaning the mixed material hardens quickly, so installers must work at a controlled pace and temperature. The formula produces minimal odor and no VOC emissions, which suits occupied buildings or areas with air-quality restrictions.
Ontario flooring contractors use 100% solids systems mainly for heavy-duty concrete in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and garages where durability and chemical resistance are non-negotiable. Residential applications exist but are less common due to application skill required. The result is a dense, impact-resistant coating that handles temperature swings, abrasion, and oils without soft spots.