Chimiver Ecostar 2K Review

Wood floors are under plenty of threats. People walking around, grinding up dirt and grit particles against the surface, the accidental spills that stain up the floor, water damage that can also be caused by issues ranging from mistakes like mopping with too much water to flooding incidents in the premises – these can ruin the floor. Add the impact of cleaning agents to this. That tough scrubbing action, especially when encountering stubborn stains, contributes to the wear and tear. Over time, signs of war become more prominent. Scratches that ruin the appeal of the surface, footpaths on those frequently walked on areas, fading because of the sun’s effects -they take away the aesthetic appeal of the floor. When the floor is in a deteriorated space, it drags down the ambience of the rest of the space. Homes and business environments alike need to take proactive steps to protect their floor. Maintenance here is not limited to just the occasional cleaning. To properly protect the floor, powerful finishes need to be applied, which provide a barrier of protection against the elements that the floor is exposed to. Chimiver, the Italian manufacturer whose products are shipped out across the different countries, has a wide range of formulations to meet the diverse client needs. One of the most popular is the Ecostar 2K. Here, we will go over this wood floor finish, and what you can expect from it.

Benefits Of The Chimiver Ecostar 2K

Superior durability

With the Chimiver Ecostar 2K being a two-component formulation – where the lacquer is mixed with the hardener before application, it results in a finish that sets a tough layer of protection on the floor. This gives it high levels of resistance to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. It’s particularly suitable for high traffic environments, capable of withstanding the levels of abrasion that are witnessed in such environments. From commercial spaces like offices, retail stores, and restaurants that receive high foot traffic and require a treatment that can withstand the barrage of abuse that the floor receives, schools and universities which witness lots of activity, including high footfall and the movement of heavy equipment and machines, residential properties, particularly those with children or pets, gymnasiums and sports facilities that need a long lasting protective barrier applied onto the floor – the lacquer will be up to the task.

The protection of the Chimiver Ecostar 2K extends to increasing the resistance of the wood floor to water and moisture. The barrier formed by the treatment on the floor reduces the amount of moisture that gets to penetrate into the surface, preventing cases of warping, swelling or cracking.

The durable nature of the Chimiver Ecostar 2K treatment on the wood floor gives it a longer lifespan compared to single-competent finishes, which also means that you won’t have to refinish your wood floors as often. This reduces the amount of time and resources that go into future sanding and restoration projects.

High pore wettability

The water-based polyurethane finish easily penetrates into the pores of the wood surface, even when dealing with textured or brushed surfaces. These are those surfaces that have been worked on with a wire brush, creating grooves and ridges in the structure. Such surfaces are usually difficult to finish with conventional lacquers – but that won’t be a cause for concern for the Chimiver Ecostar 2K. The high wettability of this formulation ensures that the entire wood floor has been adequately coated, resulting in a more durable finish.

Enhance the beauty of the floor

Floor protection and aesthetics go hand in hand. You want a wood floor finish that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the space. From creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere at home, making the space feel more relaxed, to giving commercial spaces a professional look and feel – you can count on the Chimiver Ecostar 2K. This also serves to enhance the property value, which is welcome news for realtors and property managers looking for buyers or tenants of their space.

The Chimiver Ecostar 2K allows you to set different gloss levels, to match the aesthetic requirements of the space. These include LD (80 gloss), SL (40 gloss), OP (20 gloss), and SUPER OP (8 gloss). You can also mix things up with the cycle in ordre to have a different look with the result – like using ECOCROM as the first layer, then top coating it with Chimiver Ecostar 2K, giving more pop to the wood colour.

Chemical-proofs your floors

The polyurethane finish offers exceptional resistance against cold liquids and chemical agents. It comes with EN 12720 and EN 13442 ratings, ensuring that your hardwood floors are protected against damage caused by spills, stains, and cleaning agents.

EN 12720 in particular is a European standard that measures the ability of surfaces to resist damage from cold liquids. Chimiver Ecostar 2K’s resistance level here ensures that your floors remain protected even when exposed to issues like water and milk at home. EN 12720 is a European standard that outlines testing methods to determine the resistance of different products to chemical environments, including cold liquids. The standard involves applying various chemical reagents, from the likes of distilled water, to acetic acid solution and sodium chloride solutions, to test the specimen under controlled conditions to assess the effect on the surface. In this case, it’s how a surface treated with the Chimiver Ecostar 2K would react to the liquid. The tests are carried out in authorised labs, and any testing laboratory with suitable equipment and expertise can carry out the tests in accordance with the standards to meet have been developed and maintained by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). The EN 12720 rating shows that the lacquer has met the strict performance standards for durability, chemical resistance, and long-term reliability.

EN 13442, on the other hand, is a European standard that tests the resistance of surfaces to various chemical agents, including acids, bases, and solvents. Meeting the EN 13442 means that the treated floor can withstand exposure to common household chemicals and cleaning agents without damaging your hardwood floors. However, this does not mean you go throwing any and all DIY cleaning agents onto it. Work with products that have been particularly developed for use on wood floors.

The liquid- and chemical-resistance that the Chimiver Ecostar 2K brings to the floor makes it ideal for homes with kids or pets, where spills and accidents are common. It is also suitable for commercial settings, such as restaurants and retail spaces, where exposure to chemicals and cleaning agents is frequent.

Cost-effective floor treatment

Definitely, the costs will be a factor affecting the floor finishing project. Here, the Ecostar 2K enables you to save on cost in various ways. For starters, the high durability that the finish coats deliver enables the treatment to last for the long haul. This reduces the overall costs down the road. By shielding the underlying flooring material from wear and tear, it prolongs its lifespan and minimizes the need for expensive repairs or replacements. Treating the floor with the Ecostar 2K also makes it easier to clean and maintain, reducing the need for costly cleaning products and equipment. From homes to high-traffic commercial spaces like supermarkets or hospitals, the 2-component polyurethane lacquer will help to minimize the maintenance costs associated with floor care. The traction from the finish coats also helps prevent slips and falls, reducing the risk of liability claims and saving costs associated with injury compensation.

You even get to save on the purchase costs, since the Ecostar 2K has been affordably priced. It also has a wide surface area, given that it has a coverage rate of 400-450 ft²/gal (9.81-11.76 m²/L). This reduces the costs that go into the floor finishing process.

How To Use The Chimiver Ecostar 2K

Sand the surface of the wood to remove any rough or uneven areas on the surface. This creates a smooth and even surface that will allow you to apply the finish more evenly, and end up with professional results. If you skip this step, the treatment may end up looking uneven. You also don’t want to feel the rough spots when you walk across the floor. Sanding is also key to open up the pores of the wood, for the Chimiver Ecostar 2K to properly adhere to the surface. You want the lacquer to penetrate deeply into the wood, and avoid issues like peeling or flaking. By sanding the floor first, you set a surface that the finish can bond with more strongly, resulting in a longer-lasting finish. Be careful not to over sand the surface though. Making the surface too smooth will work against you, since it will close up the pores.

For the cleaning, this is needed to prevent dust, debris, or other contaminants on the surface from getting trapped under the finish. This can result in a bumpy and uneven finish that will be difficult to clean and maintain. In some cases, you may even need to sand the surface again and start over from scratch. Give the floor a thorough clean, and allow it to dry. You can then proceed to apply the Chimiver Ecostar 2K.

Start by mixing the two components (A and B), with a 10:1 ratio. This catalyses the laquear.
Apply the finish onto the floor. Use a smooth, flowing motion, and spread the formulation uniformly on the surface. Redistribute it in areas where it has accumulated. Instead of trying to apply the finish to the entire floor all at once, it’s best to work in sections. That way, you can apply it quickly while ensuring that the coat is even, and there’s no overlap. Also follow the direction of the wood grain.
Allow 4 hours drying time.
Apply the second coat. If you get to this step after just 4 hours, then you can apply the coat without sanding the surface. However, if up to 24 hours will have elapsed, then some light sanding will be required before you add a coat of the Chimiver Ecostar 2K on the surface. For the sanding, use 220 to 320 grit sandpaper.
Allow the treatment to dry and cure.

In case a third coat needs to be applied, ensure you have allowed adequate drying time, following the above steps.
The temperature and humidity condition will affect the drying and curing process of the Chimiver Ecostar 2K treatment. It is recommended to apply the formulation when the temperatures are between 50°F and 77°F.
If it is very hot, and the area has low humidity, then you can add 5-10% of retardant DILUENTE DR H20 to the mixture. This also applies when you’re working on large floor areas.
You can also get high quality results by first applying ECOPRIME HS 120 on the floor, sanding the surface, and then applying one or two coats of Chimiver Ecostar 2K
Alternatively, if you want to give the wood surface a more intense colour, then use ECOCROM for the first layer.
For subsequent care, the usual sweeping/vacuuming and damp mopping will do. Here, it’s imperative that you use a cleaning formulation that will be safe for the wood floor.

When it comes to spills, these should be dealt with quickly. The water resistance that your floor gets from the Chimiver Ecostar 2K treatment does not mean that you allow spills to remain on the surface for extended periods.

How Chimiver Revolutionizes the Floorcare Industry with Sustainability at its Core

Plenty of weight goes into selecting the ideal brand to work with. The market is flooded with loads of options with each claiming to be the best at what they do. Here, you can easily assess the value of a brand by going through its track record. That will show you how reliable its products are, as well as the level of trust that customers have in their products. Chimiver is a well-established Italian chemical company that has been providing innovative solutions to the wood and construction industry for over 50 years. Founded in 1965, the company has grown from a small workshop to a global player with an extensive portfolio of products and services. Chimiver has expanded its operations to over 60 countries, with subsidiaries and distributors strategically located to ensure maximum reach.

Innovation is at the heart of Chimiver’s mission, and the company prides itself on its commitment to research and development. Scientists and technicians in its state-of-the-art laboratories have developed a range of high-performance products that cater to the diverse needs of its customers. This includes adhesives, coatings, sealants, and cleaners, all of which are designed to meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability. The commitment to quality has seen the brand obtain ISO 9001 certification.

Here, you’re also engaging with a brand that takes sustainability seriously. It has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact, including using renewable energy sources, the reduction of waste, and the implementation of a circular economy model. Such efforts have seen it win the “CONAI – Eco-design Packaging Award”, a program that rewards the most innovative and eco-friendly packaging solutions on the market. The company works closely with its customers to ensure that they adopt sustainable practices in their operations. By doing so, Chimiver is not only helping to preserve the planet for future generations, but also providing its customers with a competitive advantage in an increasingly environmentally conscious market.

Prolonging The Life Of Your Wood Floor With The Chimiver Ecostar 2K

Scratches and dents: The battle scars of a heavily-used floor

Wood floors can easily get scratched or dented by everyday activities. Moving furniture around or dropping heavy objects can cause unsightly blemishes. High heels can leave scuff marks on the surface. dirt and grit getting grinded against the floor by people walking around accelerates the wear. Even accidents like dropping a cast iron skillet can leave a deep dent. Some wood species, such as oak and hickory, are more durable than others and can resist scratches and dents better. But even the toughest wood floors are not immune to damage.

Sunlight: The natural enemy of wooden floors

The sunlight beaming through the windows and brightening up the room is not so friendly to the floor. The ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause fading and discoloration, especially on lighter wood species such as ash and birch. When you leave a rug or furniture in the same spot for long, you’ll notice a noticeable difference in colour of that section with the adjacent areas. The floor surface that’s close to the windows will have more significant colour changes due to UV rays. Direct sunlight exposure can cause some finishes to become dull and faded, while others like oil-based finishes can form a yellow hue. This colour changes will not be a concern with water-based finishes like the Chimiver Ecostar 2K. It retains its original look, preserving the aesthetics of the treated surface for longer.

Pets: When furry friends ruin the floor

Pets are adorable. However, those cats and dogs running around the property can damage wooden floors. They move around with their claws drawn out, which dig into the wood floor and create scratches. Additionally, pet accidents can cause stains and extensive damage. This is in addition to the spills that occur at the pet’s feeding and drinking bowls. Some wood species, such as Brazilian cherry and bamboo, are more resistant to scratches and stains, while others, like pine and maple, are more vulnerable. Small animal cages can also scratch the surface of the floor when dragged.

With pets, urine stains are also a concern. The acidic nature of the stain causes it to corrode the wood tissue, and if left unchecked it can result in permanent damage to your floor. Such spots should be dealt with as soon as possible. Enzyme-based cleaners have been developed for this – just ensure that they are suitable to be used on wood floors, and that they won’t harm the existing finish coats in the process.

When cleaning action wears down the floor

Wood floors require regular cleaning to maintain their shine, but using the wrong cleaning products can cause more harm than good. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, can strip away the protective finish, making the floor look dull and discoloured. Steam mops can cause warping and cupping. Vinegar solution strips away the floor’s protective finish. Even oil-based cleaning agents can be a menace, since they tend to cause residue build-up and attract dirt

When it comes to the routine care or floors that have been finished with the Chimiver Ecostar 2K, it’s recommended that you work with VELUREX products, which are also from the same brand.

Your Guide To Choosing Floor Finishing Products

Here are the factors that you should weigh when deciding which floor finishing product will be ideal for your situation:

Expected durability – Can the finish withstand the levels of wear it will be exposed to?

What kind of abuse is the floor exposed to? Durability is one of the most critical factors to consider when buying a wood floor finish. A home with just a couple living in it experiences less levels of wear compared to a household with kids and pets. A consultancy office has much less traffic compared to a retial store or shopping mall. The finish must be able to withstand the levels of foot traffic handled in the property as well as spills and scratches. Two durable options are oil-based and water-based polyurethane finishes. While oil-based finishes tend to be thicker and harder than water-based finishes, water-based finishes dry faster and resist yellowing. Also, with formulations like the 2-component Ecostar 2K, the final result from the catalysed finish that is applied onto the floor gives high durability to withstand heavy traffic requirements.

Safety levels and VOC Content

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a threat to the indoor air quality and bring about health problems for people on the property. For instance, exposure to VOCs can cause irritation and inflammation of the eyes, nose, and throat, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and soreness. High levels of these agents can also cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea, particularly in sensitive individuals. Prolonged exposure leads to respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma are at a high risk. Some VOCs are classified as carcinogens, meaning they’ll increase chances of developing cancer. These are the likes of benzene, formaldehyde, and vinyl chloride. Exposure to high levels of VOCs can also suppress the immune system, making one more susceptible to infections and other health problems.

Your goal is to protect the floor and accentuate its beauty, not expose your loved ones at home or the customers and staff in your business premises to these health risks. This is why there has been an increase in the usage of low-VOC floor finishes. Two such kinds are water-based polyurethane and natural oil finishes. Ecostar 2K and similar water-based finishes contain lower levels of VOCs compared to oil-based finishes. Natural oil finishes on the other hand are made from environmentally friendly materials such as linseed oil and have low or no VOC content.

Ease of Application

Some finishes require multiple coats and longer drying times, while others can be applied in one coat and dry quickly. What’s your skill level, and how much time and resources do you have to carry out the task? Some easy-to-apply finishes are one-component waterborne finishes and penetrating oil finishes. One-component waterborne finishes dry quickly and can be applied in one coat, making them ideal for those with limited time. However, the resultant finish is not as strong as the two-component lacquers. Penetrating oil finishes are also easy to apply, since soak into the wood and do not require much surface preparation.

Colour of the wood floor finish

Do you want to enhance the natural colour of the wood, or modify it to a different hue? Some finishes add a slight tint, while others are clear and allow the natural features of the wood to be showcased. It’s essential to consider the wood’s own colour and the overall decor of the room when choosing a lacquer to work with.

Tinted polyurethane finishes come in a range of colours and can add depth and character to the wood. For instance, grey wood finishes are a popular choice for modern and industrial decor styles. They add a cool, neutral tone to the space and pair well with bold, geometric patterns and sleek, metallic accents. The pale, washed-out appearance look of bleached oak wood finish brings an airy feel to a room, and is popular for Scandinavian, and modern farmhouse decor styles. On the other hand, the warm and rich brown colour of Walnut finishes works well with traditional, mid-century modern, and contemporary decor styles.

For the clear or natural wood finishes, these make the original colour and aesthetic attributes of the wood more prominent, giving it a warm and inviting look. This is usually preferred for woods with beautiful, distinctive grain patterns, like oak, cherry, or maple. In such cases, the natural beauty of the wood is the focal point of the floor, showcasing its unique characteristics and creating a timeless look. The choice of wood floor finish here will depend on personal preference, and the overall look and feel that you want for the space.

Gloss Level – Find the shine that works for you

Gloss levels range from matte to high-gloss. A higher gloss level can add shine and make the wood appear more reflective, while a lower gloss level can provide a more natural look.

Matte wood floor finishes have a low level of sheen, creating a non-reflective surface. The result in a soft, subtle look that is ideal for achieving a natural, understated aesthetic. This is usually preferred for the decor that has a rustic, organic feel, such as a farmhouse-style kitchen or a cosy cabin retreat.

Semi-gloss finishes on the other hand have a moderate level of sheen and a slightly reflective surface. They create a more polished look than a matte finish while still maintaining some of the natural texture and character of the wood. Semi-gloss finishes can work well with decor that has a traditional or classic style, such as a formal dining room or a grand entryway.

Full gloss finishes deliver a high level of sheen and a very reflective surface. They create a sleek, modern look that is perfect for the likes of contemporary decors. Full gloss finishes are ideal in spaces with a minimalist, sleek aesthetic, from modern living rooms to high-end retail stores.

Different finishes will have their varying floor levels. As mentioned, the Chimiver Ecostar 2K lacquers have glosses ranging from the LD with 80 gloss, to SUPER OP with 8 gloss. The choice you make will here will depend on how reflective you want the surface to be.

Maintenance required

How much time and effort will be required to enable to floor finish preserve its look and functional integrity? Some finishes require more maintenance than others, such as regular waxing or buffing. For instance, in high-traffic retail stores and similar commercial settings, water-based floor finishes are preferred due to their low maintenance requirements. In such areas, all that footfall, spills, and scuffs, make it necessary to have a durable and easy-to-clean finish. The simplicity of water-based finishes like the Chimiver Ecostar 2K allows for quick and easy cleanup, and reduces the amount of time spent on maintenance tasks. Having wax finishes in such settings would require way more frequent buffing and reapplication making them less practical for busy commercial spaces. Even in homes, where wax finishes could be desirable due to their natural and traditional appeal, they still require more maintenance than water-based finishes. Homeowners with waxed floors end up having to keep regularly buffing the floor to maintain its shine, and going into panic mode whenever there is a spill since wax finishes are more susceptible to damage compared to polyurethane lacquers.

Chimiver Ecostar 2K Review