A clear coating can be customized to match your facility’s aesthetic. It also helps the floor resist dust and dirt. This makes it easier to sweep and vacuum, saving you time and money on maintenance.
The clear coat also adds to the epoxy’s chemical resistance. This is especially important for commercial spaces that use harsh or corrosive chemicals.
1. Durability
Abrasion-resistant epoxy floors withstand heavy traffic and equipment movement in commercial and industrial environments. They can also stand up to harsh chemicals and heavy machinery without showing signs of damage or wear. In these spaces, abrasion-resistant epoxy coatings are the ideal choice for a long-lasting floor that can keep your business or home functioning at its best.
In addition to being resistant to abrasion, etching and corrosion, epoxy floors are easy to maintain and it works well for commericial, industrial and residential settings. They require no special cleaners or treatments, and can be easily wiped clean with a cloth or mop. However, proper surface preparation is essential to achieving a durable epoxy flooring system. The surface should be free of dirt, dust and oil to ensure the best results.
Once the surface is prepared, a primer can be applied before applying the epoxy coating. After the primer has dried, the epoxy resin and hardener can be mixed together according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, the epoxy can be applied to the floor using rollers or squeegees. If desired, decorative flakes can be sprinkled onto the wet epoxy for texture and visual appeal.
The final step is to let the epoxy harden and cure. This usually takes a few days and requires the area to be kept clear of foot traffic while it is setting.
Epoxy floors can be installed in a wide variety of styles, from a traditional concrete look to colorful designs and textures. They are also slip-resistant, making them ideal for commercial and industrial settings where safety is of the utmost importance.
If you’re considering a decorative high-performance epoxy, it’s important to work with a trusted professional. They’ll be able to guide you through the different options and help you achieve a style that matches your space and preferences.
Leggari’s slip-resistant epoxy add-ins offer both form and function, providing a non-slip surface that’s strong and durable. These add-ins are easy to install, and can be incorporated into your epoxy flooring system during the installation process.
Chemical-resistant epoxy flooring is the perfect option for environments that are exposed to a range of chemicals. It is extremely durable and can withstand abrasions and impact, and it can also be resealed to maintain its performance. To test its chemical resistance, the floor is subjected to an immersion test or a spot test. In both cases, the chemicals are allowed to sit on the floor for a set period of time and inspected for signs of damage or degradation.
2. Aesthetics
A high-traffic environment requires a surface that can stand up to the constant interaction of people and vehicles. Epoxy floors deliver this and more. They are a popular choice for retail spaces as well as commercial warehouses and manufacturing plants, because they resist impact and abrasion and encourage hygiene protocols by providing easy-to-clean surfaces.
In addition to their durability and functionality, epoxy floors are beautiful. They are able to be crafted into a wide variety of colors and aesthetics, so that they can complement the look and feel of the space. They also provide a highly reflective surface that can increase lighting levels, which can lead to increased productivity.
There are many different types of epoxy available, each designed for a specific type of space. For example, self-leveling epoxy is ideal for creating a smooth and level texture over new or old concrete. It is a good option for commercial and industrial spaces, and it can be used in conjunction with other coatings like quartz.
Another type of epoxy floor is vapor-retarding, which is a great choice for environments that require high humidity levels. This is particularly important in healthcare facilities, where hygienic conditions are critical. The vapor-retarding epoxy creates a barrier that keeps moisture from penetrating the concrete, protecting it against damage and decay.
One of the most attractive options is clear-coated epoxy. This is a durable, glossy finish that gives the floor a polished and professional appearance. It is a good choice for spaces that will be seen by customers, as it can help to enhance the brand image and make a positive impression on visitors. The clear coat is also easier to sweep and vacuum than traditional flooring, saving time and effort in cleaning and maintenance procedures.
The glossy surface of the clear-coated epoxy also helps to reflect light, which can lead to a brighter and more spacious environment. This can be a benefit in heavily commercial and industrial settings, where proper lighting is essential for safety and productivity. Moreover, the clear-coated epoxy provides a protective barrier against the harsh chemicals used in cleaning procedures, protecting the floor from damage and discoloration.
3. Easy Maintenance
Epoxy coatings are known for their durability, which helps them withstand harsh conditions and heavy foot traffic. This resilience can significantly reduce maintenance requirements, saving businesses money over time. It’s also easy to keep epoxy floors clean and attractive.
A basic sweep or dust mop can quickly remove debris from the surface, while chemical spills are easily cleaned with a non-abrasive detergent and water mixture. Since epoxy is non-porous, it prevents absorption, ensuring that spills do not leave behind stains or other unpleasant marks.
If you notice large stains, scratches, or cuts in your epoxy, it’s important to address them promptly. Your floor installer can help you determine the best way to repair these issues and restore your floor’s integrity. Proper upkeep can also extend the life of your epoxy floor and prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future.
In addition to being highly durable and visually appealing, epoxy is also an environmentally-friendly material that doesn’t release harmful fumes. This makes it a great choice for medical and food settings that require sterile surfaces. It’s also a smart choice for commercial automotive and fire station bay-garage floors, which can be exposed to chemicals and heavy machinery.
While the upfront cost of epoxy is higher than other flooring materials, it offers superior value in terms of longevity and maintenance requirements. The abrasion resistance, slip-resistant properties, and aesthetic versatility make it an excellent investment for any commercial or industrial space.
Once your epoxy is fully cured, it will be inert and no longer give off any harmful fumes. It’s safe to walk on and touch, making it a convenient choice for garages, warehouses, and other high-traffic areas. You can also use furniture pads to protect your epoxy from dents and scratches when moving equipment or heavy items.
4. Safety
In a space like a commercial kitchen, pharmaceutical plant, or busy food processing factory, hygiene is non-negotiable. Spills of cleaning chemicals, food acids, or other contaminants are less a matter of “if” than “when.” Epoxy floors are highly resistant to chemical cleaners and grease, which significantly reduces the risk of floor damage and helps ensure a hygienic environment.
An epoxy coating is also very easy to clean. The smooth surface is easily swept or mopped with the right materials and can be quickly and easily disinfected, making it ideal for spaces where health and safety are paramount.
When you choose epoxy flooring for your business or home, it’s important to work with a reputable installer that is licensed and insured. Not only will this protect you as the consumer, but it will also provide peace of mind that your installation is done correctly and to industry standards. It’s also a good idea to select an installer that offers a warranty or guarantee on their work.
During the installation process, it’s essential to wear protective gear, including goggles and an OSHA-approved respirator to avoid exposure to hazardous fumes. Sturdy boots and shoe covers are also a must. Then, once the flooring is installed, it’s a good idea to keep up with regular maintenance.
Proper maintenance of an epoxy floor will help prolong its lifespan and preserve its attractive appearance. To protect your investment, always use cleaning products that are safe for epoxy or those that are pH-neutral and non-abrasive. Additionally, routine inspections and prompt repairs can prevent small issues from growing into larger ones that may damage the surface or underlying concrete.
In addition to routine maintenance, it’s also important to have your epoxy floor tested for durability and abrasion resistance. This testing will reveal any areas that may need attention before the damage occurs, allowing you to make the necessary repairs and extending the life of your floor. The Taber abrasion test is the most common and provides a standard for comparing abrasion resistance of different products. It is typically conducted in a controlled environment with an abrasive wheel.
