Epoxy floors are durable, strong and resistant to sudden impact. They’re ideal for commercial and industrial spaces that need to withstand the constant flow of heavy vehicles, machinery and foot traffic.
When epoxy resins and curing agents are mixed together a chemical reaction occurs, creating rigid plastic material that has tightly linked cross-polymer chains. The concrete floor is then coated in this material. Visit https://www.topcoattechnicians.com/ to learn more.
Epoxy floors are an affordable way to add a high-quality surface to your home or work area. They’re also an effective way to protect your concrete floor from costly damage and improve the appearance of your room. Adding an epoxy coating is a smart investment that will pay for itself many times over with the increased protection and longevity it provides.
The amount of money you spend on an epoxy flooring project will depend on the size of your space and the type of epoxy you choose. For example, water-based and solvent-based epoxy are cheaper than solid epoxy. The price of materials makes up about 30% to 40% of the overall cost. Labor costs make up the other 14% to 40% of the total expense. Hiring a professional to install your floor will ensure that it’s installed correctly and lasts long.
An experienced and reputable contractor will charge a premium for their services, but they’ll ensure that you get a flawless finish that is durable. In contrast, new companies or less-experienced professionals might offer lower prices but may not guarantee their work.
If you decide to go the DIY route, be aware that it can be a time-consuming and challenging task. There are epoxy kits available that will walk you through the process, but they’ll likely only cover basic, water-based epoxy. Pouring the epoxy yourself is physically demanding and there’s a high risk of error, which can be expensive to correct.
Other cost-increasing factors include weather. Epoxy must dry in cool temperatures and cannot bond properly when wet or exposed to high humidity. This can delay or even cancel the job, which will incur extra labor and material costs. Also, you’ll have to purchase and use specialized equipment like a power washer, sprayer, squeegee, and sandblaster. An applicator will typically include the cost of this equipment into your final quote.
Durable
Epoxy floors are highly durable, which is one of the many reasons they’re popular for commercial and industrial spaces. They can withstand heavy traffic from trucks, cars, and forklifts as well as foot traffic from employees and customers. They’re also resistant to sudden impact, preventing damage from dropped tools or equipment.
Epoxies are highly resistant to chemical exposure, too, which makes them an excellent choice for areas where chemicals are frequently spilled or splashed. However, it’s important to note that the durability of epoxy is greatly impacted by environmental conditions and how the flooring is installed. For example, if the concrete floor isn’t properly prepared, then it can develop cracks and chips that decrease the longevity of the epoxy coating.
Additionally, if an epoxy is applied to a surface that’s not smooth or even, it may create a bumpy texture called “orange peel.” While this finish doesn’t affect the longevity of the coating, it can negatively impact the appearance of the floor.
The longevity of an epoxy floor coating can also be affected by the frequency and severity of maintenance tasks. Sweeping and dust mopping help to keep the surface clean and free from dirt, abrasive particles, and other debris that can wear down the material. Using gentle cleaning solutions on a regular basis can prevent stains from developing and maintain the epoxy’s glossy appearance.
Finally, routine inspections of the floor can help to identify any areas where the coating is beginning to wear down or damaged, allowing them to be repaired before the issue becomes more serious. By following these simple tips, you can maximize the lifespan of your epoxy floor coating. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy a safe and attractive workspace for years to come.
Chemical Resistant
Epoxy floors are incredibly durable, and their chemical resistance makes them ideal for spaces where corrosive chemicals are present. If you’re considering installing epoxy flooring in your commercial space, you should consult with an experienced coatings contractor who can provide you with custom mixes that are resistant to the specific chemicals you plan on using. This will help prevent the concrete deterioration and damage that is common in areas where there are frequent spills of corrosive substances.
Epoxies also boast superior thermal resistance, and they can withstand high temperatures without degrading or warping. This makes them ideal for spaces with elevated heat levels, such as a manufacturing plant or an auto garage. They can be applied to a variety of substrates, and they’re low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them an environmentally friendly option.
Aside from their durability and chemical resistance, epoxy floor coatings are easy to clean and maintain. Their smooth, non-porous surface makes it simple to wipe up spills, and the coating’s lustrous shine resists dirt and grime buildup. This reduces the need for cleaning products and procedures, saving you money in the long run.
In addition to being resistant to a wide range of chemicals, epoxy is also highly effective at sterilizing surfaces. This is why it’s a popular choice for commercial medical and food settings that require sterile flooring.
When paired with the right additives, chemical-resistant epoxy can deliver enhanced safety and aesthetic appeal to any space. Leggari’s grit additive, for example, is able to enhance the strength and visual impact of an epoxy floor by adding substance and texture to its surface. This can transform a dull, lifeless space into one that is both functional and visually appealing.
Easy to Clean
One of the best things about epoxy flooring is how easy it is to clean. While a good sweeper or vacuum is essential for removing dirt, sand and dust from the floor, you should also mop on a regular basis. This will prevent your epoxy floors from becoming dirty and dingy.
You can use a simple scrub pad or even a mechanized floor cleaning machine with warm water and a neutral cleaner. It is best to avoid soaps and detergents on your epoxy floor, as these can leave streaks and make your floors slippery. A non-toxic and biodegradable cleanser, such as Simple Green or ammonia, is safe for your epoxy floors.
If your epoxy floors see a lot of traffic, you should sweep and mop daily to keep them looking their best. A micro fibre mop is preferred, as it can pick up more residue without leaving a film on the epoxy surface. If you prefer to use a sponge or cotton mop, be sure to choose one that is soft and can absorb the water and wash solution.
Dirt and sand embedded in the epoxy surface can cause it to become scratched or dented. To prevent this, place walk-off mats at the entrance to catch the dirt and grit that people track into the facility. It is also a good idea to put a pad under the front of each car or bicycle that sits on the floor. This will prevent the wheels from putting too much pressure on the floor and causing damage.
You should also take the time to remove tire marks regularly. These can ruin the look of your floors and may make them unsafe for vehicles or pedestrians. You can also wipe up oil and antifreeze spills as soon as they occur. This will prevent them from damaging the epoxy surface and affecting the durability of your garage or industrial floors.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Epoxy is a durable material that has a sleek and glossy finish that’s both elegant and attractive. It also reflects light, making spaces feel brighter and bigger. Additionally, epoxy floor coatings are available in a range of colors and textures to suit any decor, allowing you to customize your space.
For example, you can use metallic epoxy to mimic the appearance of marble or granite floors. Or, you can incorporate natural elements into your epoxy design to create a unique, one-of-a-kind surface that’s sure to turn heads. This type of flooring is perfect for restaurants and showrooms, but it’s equally suited to residential spaces, as well.
It’s easy to see why so many businesses and homeowners are turning to epoxy coatings for their concrete floors. This versatile and cost-effective material can withstand heavy machinery and chemical spills while still looking great. And, it’s easier to clean than traditional tile or hardwood flooring. In addition, it’s stain resistant, so it won’t be damaged by water or oil spills.
When applied by a professional, epoxy floor coatings can last for years. However, it’s important to note that epoxy can generate volatile organic compounds during the application process. Therefore, people with asthma or other respiratory conditions should be aware of this and take precautions.
Compared to polyurethanes and ureas, epoxy has a lower VOC level and less odor. Moreover, it doesn’t yellow and fade when exposed to UV rays like some other flooring materials. Therefore, it is a good option for home floors as long as it is properly prepared and protected with a top coat.