Surface Pros Epoxy Flooring are incredibly durable, cost-effective, and low maintenance. This makes them a great choice for industrial or commercial spaces.
They also resist impact and sudden shifts in temperature. However, to keep them looking good, you must clean them on a regular basis. Especially to remove any dirt or grit that might embed in the epoxy and scratch it.
When a cleaning or maintenance task is needed for an epoxy floor, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage. This means sweeping and vacuuming regularly to remove debris before it can damage the epoxy coating. It’s also recommended to use a soft deck brush or kitchen scrubbing sponge and warm water when cleaning. Avoid steel wool or harsh chemicals, as these can discolor the surface of the epoxy and reduce its effectiveness.
It’s a good idea to keep a bucket of warm water and a non-alkaline cleaner around for spot cleaning or for washing off chemicals or oil spills. This will make it easier to clean the surface and prevent premature wear. It’s also a good idea to wipe down heavy equipment and tools before moving them onto the epoxy flooring, as this will protect it from scratches and other damage.
Aside from regular sweeping, it’s important to mop an epoxy floor once or twice per week with a pH neutral cleaner. This helps to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime and can prolong the life of your epoxy flooring. When mopping an epoxy floor, it’s a good idea to use a microfiber mop and to wring out the cleaning solution before applying it to the surface. It’s also a good idea not to use any cleaners that contain acidic, citrus, or vinegar solutions as these can dull an epoxy floor’s sheen.
The frequency of scrubbing your floor depends on the type of soilage it typically experiences. High-traffic areas may require scrubbing daily, while low-traffic areas can be cleaned weekly. If you notice stains or other signs of damage to your floor, it’s a good idea for a professional to come in and take a look. They’ll be able to provide you with the best possible advice and recommendations for maintenance and repair work.
Using a walk-off mat at the entrance of your industrial, commercial, or residential floor will help to reduce the amount of dirt and grit that can damage your epoxy floors. This will also help to cut down on the time it takes to sweep and vacuum your floor, as it will stop much of the dirt from getting trapped in the nooks and crannies of your flooring. It’s also a good idea for you to place protective pads under your heavy equipment or tools, as this will help to prevent scratching or gouging your epoxy floors.
Water Resistant
One of the primary benefits of epoxy is that it creates a robust barrier that safeguards against water damage. This is particularly beneficial in commercial and industrial environments where moisture can cause serious problems, from mold growth to structural damage. Epoxy floors are unquestionably waterproof once cured, and they provide excellent protection for surfaces that need to stay dry and functional.
When it comes to ensuring your epoxy floor is waterproof, the first step is selecting the right epoxy coating for your environment. Different epoxies have unique properties that make them suitable for different purposes and environments. For example, there are hygienic epoxy coatings that meet FDA and USDA standards and can stand up to heavy foot traffic and impact. There are also moisture-resistant epoxies that prevent the penetration of water into the substrate, making them a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Another important consideration is the chemical resistance of your chosen epoxies. Depending on the concentration and duration of exposure, certain chemicals can degrade epoxy, rendering it ineffective at protecting the surface underneath. It is recommended to use a trade qualified, Government-licenced waterproofer who will install a membrane that is suited to your specific environment and expected chemical exposure.
The process of installing an epoxy floor can be time-consuming and complex, even under the best of circumstances. The floors must be prepared correctly before the application of the product, and there are strict guidelines and drying times that must be followed afterward to ensure your floor is properly installed and durable. Failure to follow the guidelines can lead to failure of the coating, which can be costly for the business owner.
It is also essential to understand that epoxy cannot protect against cracks or movement in the concrete base. This is because the resin will not bond to the concrete if it is moving or cracked, which can result in moisture seeping through the ridges and causing damage. Therefore, it is essential to use a professional contractor who can prepare the concrete and apply the epoxy coating to ensure that the entire surface is waterproof.
Durable
Epoxy flooring provides one of the strongest floor surfaces available. It creates an impenetrable seal that is resistant to most materials and chemicals, making it ideal for industrial environments with frequent spillage of corrosive liquids. In fact, epoxy is three times stronger than concrete and can withstand up to 10,000 psi. Moreover, it is highly impact resistant and can take a beating from heavy equipment or wheeled vehicles.
Epoxies are also dense, which prevents fluids from seeping into and soaking the subfloor or causing damage. This makes it ideal for facilities that need to keep floors hygienic, such as healthcare or food manufacturing. It’s also resistant to chemical exposure, making it a great choice for facilities that regularly use a wide variety of cleaning products.
Proper maintenance practices are key to ensuring that your epoxy floor stays durable for as long as possible. Regular sweeping, dust mopping and scheduled maintenance tasks like recoating can help extend the lifespan of your epoxy floor coating. Avoiding extreme temperature conditions and implementing preventive measures like adding walk-off mats at entryways can also significantly boost the longevity of your epoxy flooring.
The durability of an epoxy floor is influenced by a number of factors, including environmental conditions, traffic intensity, and installation quality. The quality of the substrate — the surface to which the epoxy is applied — can also impact the durability of the finished product. For example, a bare concrete floor that hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned or repaired may have weak spots that are more susceptible to damage.
Fortunately, there are several ways to maximize the durability of your epoxy floors. Whether it’s through routine cleaning, preventive actions or scheduled maintenance, these steps can help prolong the life of your floor and ensure that it continues to offer a high level of performance and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Low Maintenance
One of the biggest benefits of epoxy flooring is that it requires very little maintenance to keep looking great. It can be swept and mopped like any other floor surface, but unlike tile or vinyl, it won’t deteriorate due to moisture. Its non-porous surface also protects against chemical spillage, making it ideal for places that might be subject to oil or other hazardous liquid spills.
Epoxy floors are resistant to abrasions and impact, so you can be sure that they won’t be damaged even by heavy vehicles or machinery. If you’re planning to use your garage or parking lot for automotive work, be sure to protect your new floors with a specialized rubber-backed mat available for sale that will prevent a reaction with battery acid.
To help ensure the longevity of your epoxy coating, be sure to hire a contractor that is experienced in installing it. Check that they have an excellent reputation and a portfolio of previous projects. Look for a contractor affiliated with an industry leader or epoxy manufacturer, as this often indicates their commitment to best practices.
The amount of maintenance required for your epoxy floor depends on the environment and the frequency with which soilage accumulates. Generally speaking, it’s best to scrub the floor once a week using an appropriate brush and cleaning agent or, for greater productivity, a mechanized scrubber. Areas that experience a large volume of spills may require daily scrubbing to avoid damage to the floor finish.
It’s important to note that if your floor has cracks or bubbles in the surface, these should be repaired immediately to prevent them from worsening. Not only can they create safety hazards, but they may also lead to moisture issues, which are detrimental to the integrity of your epoxy coating.
With a little bit of attention, your epoxy coating can last for decades and continue to offer beauty and durability. It’s the ideal choice for retirees who want to spend more time engaging in their hobbies and less on home maintenance. With the added benefit of optimal lighting, your low-maintenance floors will be a joy to enjoy for years to come.