Product Selection · 6 min read · Updated 2026-07-07
How to Read a Technical Data Sheet for Floor Coatings
Answer summary
A Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is the factual reference for a coating: what it is, how it is mixed and applied, how much it covers, how fast it cures and what limits apply. Reading a few fields well — mixing ratio, pot life, coverage, cure schedule and substrate requirements — is enough to compare products meaningfully and plan an installation realistically.
What a TDS is (and is not)
The TDS states a product's composition type, intended uses, application data and performance values as measured under stated test conditions. It is the document specifiers rely on — unlike marketing copy, its values are traceable and comparable.
It is not a guarantee for every site: TDS values are measured at reference conditions (often 25–30 °C), and real substrates, humidity and workmanship shift outcomes. That is why data sheets pair with a manufacturer's technical recommendation for the specific project. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a different document covering handling and safety.
The fields that matter most
Two further details reward attention: dry film thickness per coat (thin topcoats and thick bodies are different jobs) and the note under the performance table — reputable sheets state that values are indicative, measured under laboratory conditions, and not binding specifications.
- Mixing ratio — two-component products cure correctly only at the stated ratio (e.g. Sparcofloor SL 200 mixes 4:1 by weight)
- Pot life — usable time after mixing; solvent-free epoxies can be short (SL 200: up to ~20 minutes at 28 °C), which dictates batch planning
- Coverage / consumption — how much product per m² (SL 200: ~1.6–2.0 kg/m² self-smoothing; Sparcofloor 343: ~0.10 L/m² per coat) — the basis of quantity take-offs
- Cure schedule — recoat windows and time to foot, light and full traffic (343: foot traffic ~8 h, vehicular ~48 h at 25 °C) — drives shutdown planning
- Substrate limits — moisture content, temperature, preparation (SL 200: concrete moisture max ~5%) — the most common cause of failures when ignored
Comparing products fairly
When comparing two data sheets, check the test conditions before the numbers: abrasion values depend on the test method and load; coverage depends on assumed thickness; cure times depend on temperature. A product that looks slower at 20 °C may match another's figures at 30 °C.
Every Sparco product page links its TDS in English, Chinese and Vietnamese, and all sheets are collected in the TDS Download Centre — if a value you need is not stated, ask the technical team rather than assume.
When to use this system
- Shortlisting products for a specification
- Preparing quantity take-offs and cost comparisons
- Planning shutdown windows around cure schedules
- Verifying substrate requirements before committing a system
Where it is commonly used
- Specification and tender preparation
- Contractor method statements
- Procurement comparisons
- Site quality checks during application
Related Sparco products
Recommended TDS downloads
Browse the TDS Download Centre →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a TDS and an SDS?
A Technical Data Sheet describes what a product is and how it performs and is applied; a Safety Data Sheet covers hazards, handling, storage and first aid. Specification uses the TDS; safety compliance uses the SDS.
Are TDS values guaranteed?
No — they are measured under stated laboratory conditions and are indicative. Site temperature, humidity, substrate and workmanship all influence real results, which is why data sheets are paired with a project-specific recommendation.
Where can I download Sparco TDS documents?
From each product page, or all together in the TDS Download Centre — every sheet is available in English, Chinese and Vietnamese.
Values referenced in this guide come from the products' Technical Data Sheets. Final specification depends on substrate, traffic, chemical exposure and shutdown window — confirm the complete build-up with our technical team.