Hi Lu. If it’s EpoxyMaster that you will be applying, a muriatic acid etch will be sufficient. EpoxyMaster states that its product does not require an epoxy primer. In fact, they don’t offer an epoxy primer to apply. We prefer to use one simply because it will help to avoid some of the cosmetic issues that can occur if you don’t. However, it’s not required.

Also, do I need to use a primer? Whether I acid etch or grind?

Thank you

Hi Jeff. Adding sand to an epoxy primer will not help it adhere to the tiles. The tiles need to be sanded first (which you don’t want to do with asbestos) in order to create the proper profile for the epoxy primer to mechanically bond to it. The epoxy primer then provides a very strong chemical bond for the epoxy color coat when applied within the 24 hour recoat window. If the proper prep is not done, the primer will not adhere properly which renders the entire coating susceptible to peeling. As was stated earlier, there are special epoxy and polyurethane slurries that that commercial market has adopted for safely covering up asbestos tiles, but this process requires professional installation. Unfortunately, asbestos tiles create a host of problems with none being an easy solution.

How about an epoxy primer then? Could that be in turn mixed with some sand for added adhesion for the epoxy? Floor mats are not a solution here.

Hello Jeff. Oil based primers are not compatible with epoxy. You would need to use an actual epoxy primer. However, that would require sanding of the tiles which you do not want to do. An epoxy slurry could be applied over the tiles, but it would be expensive and should be done by professionals. Your best options would be to have a licensed company for asbestos removal rid your garage of the tiles and then apply a coating or just cover them up with interlocking floor tiles or garage floor mats.