Back rolling is the step of rolling over coating that has just been poured, squeegeed, or sprayed. It levels the material and removes lines, puddles, and tool marks.
Understanding Back Rolling
After the coating is spread with a squeegee or notched trowel, one installer follows with a roller to even it out. The roller removes ridges, spreads excess, and lays the material off in one direction. Most epoxy, polyaspartic, and urethane jobs use some form of back rolling.
Roller Choice and Technique
The nap of the roller depends on the material and the texture of the floor. A short nap leaves a smoother finish, and a longer nap carries more material. Use a quality, lint-free cover. Roll in a consistent pattern, overlap your passes, and keep a wet edge so you do not see lap lines.
Back Rolling vs. Cutting In
Back rolling covers large open floor areas. Cutting in is brushing or small-roller work along walls, corners, and edges. Both must be done within the working time so the two areas blend together. If one dries before the other, you can see a visible line.
Practical Tips for Back Rolling
Work in sections you can finish before the coating starts to set. Spiked shoes let you step into wet material when rolling broadcast systems. Do not overwork the coating, and never go back over material that has started to gel. Match your roller speed to the temperature and pot life.
Also Called
Back-rolling, Cross-rolling
