With Epoxy.com #12 Primer and #633
Perchloroethylene (PCE) contamination is a common challenge at former dry-cleaning facilities. Even after operations have stopped, residual solvents often remain in the soil and vapor can migrate upward through the concrete slab. Left untreated, this can cause environmental liability, health concerns, and ongoing regulatory issues.
The solution? A properly designed epoxy vapor barrier system installed directly over the existing concrete.
Why PCE Vapor Intrusion Is a Problem
- Health Risk: PCE vapors can migrate into occupied buildings, posing inhalation hazards.
- Structural Risk: Solvents may deteriorate floor coverings and adhesives.
- Regulatory Risk: Many state and federal environmental agencies require mitigation once contamination is identified.
Concrete alone is not an effective barrier. That’s why Epoxy.com Product #12 Primer and Product #633 Coating are the recommended system for sealing these slabs.
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Before installing any vapor barrier epoxy, proper preparation is critical:
- Clean and profile the concrete – Use mechanical abrasion (diamond grinding or shot blasting). Avoid acid etching, as it can drive contaminants deeper.
- Repair cracks and joints – Fill with an epoxy mortar or flexible joint filler compatible with #12 Primer.
- Moisture test – Even if no active leaks are visible, confirm slab conditions. High moisture slabs are acceptable when properly primed with #12.
Step 2: Apply Epoxy.com Product #12 Primer
Product #12 Primer is a penetrating epoxy primer designed for damp or contaminated concrete.
- Bonds tightly to difficult substrates
- Seals micro-pores and imperfections
- Provides a stable base for the topcoat
Apply with a roller or squeegee at the recommended coverage rate. Allow to cure tack-free before proceeding.
Step 3: Apply Epoxy.com Product #633 High-Performance Epoxy
Product #633 is a chemical-resistant epoxy coating ideal for vapor barrier and environmental remediation projects.
- Resists chlorinated solvents like perchloroethylene
- Creates a dense, non-permeable film
- Easy to clean and maintain once cured
For best results, apply two coats of #633 over the cured #12 Primer. This builds a thick, protective membrane that locks down vapor migration and creates a clean, durable surface finish.
Benefits of the #12 + #633 System
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets many environmental mitigation standards.
- Long-Term Durability: Designed for industrial service conditions.
- Cost Efficiency: Can be applied directly over existing slabs, avoiding costly concrete replacement.
- Flexibility: Compatible with top finishes such as urethane, tile, or carpet adhesives (with proper testing).
Recommended Applications
- Former dry-cleaning plants
- Commercial buildings with solvent-impacted soil
- Industrial sites where chlorinated solvents were stored or used
✅ If you’re dealing with perchloroethylene vapor intrusion in a concrete slab, Epoxy.com #12 Primer and #633 are a proven system to stop vapor transmission and restore usable space.
👉 Learn more: Epoxy.com #12 Primer | Epoxy.com #633
