Must‑Have Epoxy Tools in 2026: Gauge Rakes, Squeegees, Spiked Shoes & More
- Mar 4
- 2 min read
Epoxy flooring continues to grow in popularity across residential, commercial, and industrial markets—and with that growth comes a demand for better installation tools. Whether you're installing metallic epoxy, garage coatings, flake floors, or industrial systems, having the right equipment ensures your finish is smooth, level, and long‑lasting.
This guide highlights the must‑have epoxy tools for 2026, based on what professional installers rely on every day.
Gauge rakes help installers spread epoxy at an exact thickness, which is essential for durability and proper curing. Modern rakes feature adjustable wings or removable cams, giving precise control across the floor.
Best for:
100% solids epoxy
High‑build coatings
Commercial systems
Gauge rakes create a controlled base coat before back‑rolling.
Tools like notched squeegees and flexible rubber blades allow installers to move epoxy efficiently across the slab. They help eliminate puddling and ensure a consistent film.
Ideal for:
Metallic epoxy
Primers
Large‑area spreading
They're essential for getting smooth product movement.
Spiked shoes allow installers to walk across wet epoxy without leaving footprints, making it easier to fix imperfections, broadcast flakes, or blend colors.
Perfect for:
Flake floors
Metallic blending
Touch‑ups during curing
Every epoxy professional needs these on every job.
Rollers help level the epoxy after spreading. Shed‑resistant, solvent‑safe rollers—especially mohair or 3/8” nap—are crucial for smooth finishes.
Recommended for:
Clear coats
Metallic epoxy
Fast back‑rolling
Wide 18" frames speed up commercial installs.
These tools help eliminate bubbles and manipulate metallic pigments.
Great for:
Metallic epoxy
Removing microbubbles
Creating cell effects
Proper mixing ensures epoxy cures evenly and prevents soft spots.
Used for:
Pigments
2‑part epoxy kits
Thick coatings
Clean prep is everything. HEPA vacuums and dust shrouds control silica dust and improve adhesion.
Essential for:
Grinding prep
Safety compliance
Protect Your Epoxy Flooring Business
Tools protect your results — but insurance protects your business.
If you install epoxy or coatings professionally, safeguard your equipment, crew, and liability exposure with a contractor insurance policy from Wexford Insurance. Get a fast, no‑obligation quote today.
