Epoxy Resin Flooring is a very popular choice for commercial and industrial properties. It’s durable and easy to clean which makes it a cost-effective and long-lasting floor solution. The material is odor-free and highly resistant to stains and spills, making it an excellent choice for high traffic areas. However, there are several things you should know about epoxy resin floors before making the decision to use them in your facility. This article will explore what epoxy resin is, how it’s used and some of the advantages and disadvantages of this flooring option.
What is an epoxy resin floor?
An epoxy resin is a hard-wearing, protective colour floor coating that can be applied to concrete and wood. The floor coating creates a hard surface with a smooth finish, similar to the texture of an orange peel (hence the name). This type of resin is often used as a decorative coloured floor in retail stores and warehouses or as a protective flooring solution for concrete surfaces in factories and automotive garages.
Epoxy resins are used in a wide range of products, including adhesives, sealants, paints and coatings. It’s a chemical-resistant material that is also impervious to heat and UV rays. It’s a good choice for locations that experience a lot of wear and tear, such as factories, workshops, car dealerships and sports arenas.
There are many different types of epoxy resins, each with its own unique set of properties. Some are more heat-resistant than others, while some are able to withstand very cold temperatures. Epoxy resins are available in a range of colours and finishes to suit any aesthetic. Some can even be textured to create a non-slip, anti-static surface.
When it comes to installing an epoxy resin floor, the right preparation and application is essential. This is why it’s best to leave the job to a specialist team who have all of the necessary equipment and training. The underlying floor must be thoroughly cleaned, free from any oils or greases and repaired where necessary before the coating is applied. Humidity levels must also be low enough to allow the epoxy to cure properly.
The most common types of epoxy floor coatings are polyurethane and polyurea. Polyurethane is a more expensive option, but it’s also more resilient and has a better finish. Polyurea is cheaper, but it doesn’t last as long as polyurethane.
While there are some disadvantages to using epoxy resin floors, the pros clearly outweigh them. They are a popular and durable flooring solution for commercial and industrial facilities, and they can be very attractive in residential applications as well.
While it’s true that an epoxy floor can be prone to cracking, this is usually caused by the incorrect installation process or inadequate surfacing materials. It’s also important to remember that an epoxy floor is a permanent flooring solution, so if you decide that you no longer want it, you will need to remove and replace it. However, if you choose a quality product and have it installed correctly by an expert team, an epoxy resin floor will give you years of service.