Epoxy flooring is a popular choice for commercial and industrial spaces. Its high gloss finish reflects existing lighting, creating a bright, clean appearance.
Before applying an epoxy floor coating, consider the type of traffic and activities it will withstand. Factors like heavy foot traffic and wheeled vehicles can damage thinner coatings. To learn more, visit https://www.topcoattechnicians.com/.
Epoxy floors are extremely durable and can withstand heavy loads and harsh environments. When properly prepped, installed, and maintained, they will last for decades in industrial and commercial settings. However, the lifespan of an epoxy floor depends on its environment and how it’s used.
One of the biggest factors that affects the durability of epoxy flooring is the level of traffic it receives. In homes, this is usually a few people and pets. However, industrial and commercial facilities will see much more foot and wheeled traffic. This can lead to the floor becoming scratched and scuffed, especially in high-traffic areas. It’s important to let your epoxy contractor know how much traffic you expect in your space so they can give you an accurate estimate of how long your new floor will last.
Another factor that affects the durability of an epoxy floor is its exposure to chemicals. This is a major consideration for industrial and manufacturing facilities, where it’s common to find highly-erosive substances spilled or used on the floor. If these harsh chemicals are allowed to sit on the epoxy for too long, they can erode and damage it.
Fortunately, this is easy to prevent. Adding walk-off mats at the entrance of your facility can help collect dirt, sand, and other particles before they can damage the floor. It’s also a good idea to place soft pads under car and motorcycle kickstands to prevent the metal from scratching the epoxy.
The level of wear and tear an epoxy floor endures can be affected by its exposure to chemicals, moisture, and temperature changes. Epoxy is designed to withstand these conditions, and it can resist moisture by forming covalent bonds with its curing agent. It can also withstand temperature fluctuations by expanding and contracting without warping or cracking.
Depending on the severity of the environmental factors that your facility encounters, it may require more frequent sweeping and mopping or more regular resealing and recoating. It’s important to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for these activities to ensure the longevity of your floor.
Easy to maintain
Epoxy floors are popular for their glossy finish, which is easy to clean. They are also durable, providing a surface that can withstand heavy traffic and other contaminants without showing wear. However, it is important to keep in mind that these floors must be maintained to ensure the longevity of their protective coating. Daily sweeping and mopping are essential to prevent a build-up of dirt or other debris that can damage the epoxy coating. A weekly scrubbing is necessary to remove any large stains, scratches or gouges. The cleaning process should be done with a neutral-based cleaner rather than soap, which can leave a film behind and attract and hold dirt.
Keeping up with regular cleaning and scrubbing will extend the life of your epoxy flooring and make it easier to maintain its glossy appearance. You should avoid using harsh chemicals, floor strippers or citrus-based cleaners, which can break down the epoxy coating and cause it to yellow or lose its sheen. Instead, you should use a neutral-based cleaner such as Simple Green or a commercial grade degreaser that has been diluted with water.
Another way to protect your epoxy flooring is to place walk-off mats in the entrance of your facility, which will trap dirt and grit that may be tracked onto the floors. You should also place pads under the feet of any heavy equipment or vehicles that will be used in your facility to avoid damaging the epoxy floor.
If you have a concrete floor that has been coated with an epoxy resin, the best way to get rid of any tire marks is by spraying them with a concrete degreaser and letting it soak in for about 10 minutes. Then, scrub the marks with a stiff brush and rinse them with clean water. This will remove any grease and oil residue, ensuring that your floor looks as good as new.
In addition to abrasion resistance, epoxy floors are hygienic and non-toxic. They are an excellent choice for warehouses, hospitals and schools where cleanliness is paramount. They are also durable and easy to keep clean, making them an excellent investment for your facility.
Aesthetically pleasing
Epoxy floors are a beautiful addition to any home or commercial space. The glossy finish makes them look clean and new, while the material’s durable coating protects it from damage caused by heavy equipment or chemicals. Whether you want to create an eye-catching design or simply enhance the look of your space, epoxy floors are available in an infinite palette of colours, captivating patterns, and delightful textures.
Aside from its decorative possibilities, epoxy is incredibly affordable. It is also easy to install, and can be applied over concrete substrates. It is even possible to use epoxy on stairs and ramps, making it an excellent choice for areas that see a lot of foot traffic.
The cost of epoxy flooring depends on a few factors, including the type and quality of materials used. The contractor’s labor costs will also factor into the total price of the project. To get the best price, shop around for contractors who specialize in installing epoxy floors and are familiar with the process. Make sure to compare quotes and check online reviews. You should also ask the contractor to provide a detailed estimate of how the floor will be prepped (cleaned and etched) and what application methods will be used.
Many epoxy flooring companies charge per square foot, but some may also require a flat fee to cover overhead expenses. These expenses typically include the cost of specialized materials and equipment, such as spiked rollers, wet-dry vacuums, power washers, squeegees, and sprayers. Additionally, some contractors will add a surcharge to account for travel and other unforeseen expenses.
Another cost to consider is the expense of resurfacing the existing concrete substrate before applying the epoxy. The resurfacing process typically costs $3 to $25 per square foot. This can be more expensive than tearing up the existing floor, but it is often cheaper than replacing the entire structure.
Aside from these costs, some homeowners may opt to add additional features to their epoxy flooring to improve its appearance and functionality. These additions can include slip-resistant additives and decorative flakes. Adding these extras can significantly increase the cost of the project.
Affordability
It’s possible to have an epoxy floor installed at a price that fits within your budget. The cost of an epoxy coating depends on the type you choose and how much customization is included in the project. For example, decorative flake or quartz aggregate blends can add a visual pop to your flooring. These features typically increase the price of the flooring.
The epoxy coating itself typically costs between $2 and $5 per square foot, excluding installation. This is less than the cost of laminate and vinyl, which can range from $7 to $12 per square foot. However, if you need to repair and prep the concrete surface before installing the epoxy, this can increase the total price.
To reduce your costs, hire a contractor who specializes in epoxy flooring. This will ensure you get the highest quality flooring that lasts for years to come. Ask for client references and check whether the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. Also, consider asking friends and family for recommendations and searching online for reviews on local contractors.
A well-known and reputable epoxy flooring contractor will have a high customer satisfaction rating. A good epoxy contractor will also be able to provide you with a free quote and help you choose the best design for your space.
If you’re willing to take on the challenge of a DIY job, there are epoxy kits available that walk you through the process. However, it’s important to remember that this is a difficult and time-consuming task that requires a lot of patience and precision. There’s a significant risk of errors that can result in poor appearance or inadequate protection for the floor underneath.
Epoxy can withstand a variety of abuses and will last longer than other types of flooring. It’s moisture and stain resistant, and it can be re-sealed every 5 to 7 years. It is also slip-resistant, which makes it ideal for commercial and residential use.
When choosing an epoxy floor coating, it’s important to consider the size of your space and how much traffic it will see. A garage or workshop that gets frequent traffic will need a thicker and more durable epoxy than a family room or living room. In addition, you should choose a color that matches your home or business’s décor and will look attractive in your space.