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Writer's pictureJasmine Calzadillas

7 Tips to Ensure Proper Epoxy Floor Coating Maintenance

Updated: Oct 3, 2023

Epoxy floors, with their glossy sheen and remarkable durability, have become a popular choice in both residential and commercial spaces. If you're among those who have invested in the elegance of epoxy flooring design, it's essential to understand the importance of epoxy floor coating maintenance to ensure your floors retain their charm for years to come.


Epoxy Floor Coating Maintenance
Epoxy Floor Coating Maintenance

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Why Epoxy Floors?

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of epoxy floor maintenance, let's quickly recap why epoxy floors have become such a sought-after choice. Epoxy floor coating is a blend of epoxy resin and hardening agents that, when applied to concrete surfaces, create a tough, seamless, and visually appealing surface. Here's why people love them:

1. Durability: Epoxy floors are ideal for high-traffic areas like garages, warehouses, and industrial facilities due to their resistance to abrasion, and impact.

2. Aesthetic Appeal: It adds sophistication to any room when epoxy floors are polished to a glossy finish. The surface reflects light, brightening up rooms and creating a sleek, modern look.

3. Low Maintenance: When properly maintained, epoxy floors require minimal upkeep compared to other flooring options, like hardwood or carpet.

4. Chemical Resistance: Epoxy floors are highly resistant to chemicals, making them a popular choice in laboratories, factories, and chemical processing facilities.

Now that we've established why epoxy floors are such a favorite, let's get into the nitty-gritty of epoxy floor maintenance.

The Basics of Epoxy Floor Coating Maintenance

Epoxy floors, although robust, do require regular maintenance to retain their beauty and functionality. The good news is that proper maintenance is neither complicated nor time-consuming, and it can significantly extend the lifespan of your epoxy flooring.

1. Regular Cleaning: The Foundation of Epoxy Floor Maintenance

Cleaning epoxy floors should be a routine part of your maintenance plan. It is important to keep your epoxy floors clean regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and grime that can, over time, dull the glossy finish.

Maintaining epoxy floors is easy with these simple cleaning techniques:

a) Dust and Sweep: Start by removing loose dirt and dust with a broom or dust mop. If dust and other debris are not immediately cleared away, they may scratch a surface.

b) Gentle Mopping: Next, use a soft mop or a microfiber mop pad to clean the floor. According to the manufacturer's instructions, mix a mild, pH-neutral cleaner with warm water. The use of harsh chemicals should be avoided when finishing with epoxy.

c) Rinse Thoroughly: To remove any residue left on the floor after mopping, rinse it with clean water. Make sure you thoroughly remove all soap or cleaner remnants, as they can leave streaks or a cloudy film on the surface.

2. Spill Cleanup

Accidents happen, and epoxy floors are no exception to the occasional spill. Whether it's a spilled glass of wine or a drop of oil in the garage, it's essential to address spills promptly to prevent staining or damage.

Here's how to handle spills on epoxy floors:

a) Blot or Wipe: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot or wipe up the spill as soon as possible. Do not rub the epoxy surface, since it could cause the spill to spread and penetrate.

b) Clean and Rinse: A mild detergent and water should be used to clean the area after the spill has been removed. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue remains.

3. Stain Removal

Epoxy floors can sometimes be stained, despite regular cleaning. To handle common stains, follow these tips:

a) Oil and Grease Stains: Baking soda and water can be mixed to make a paste and applied to oil or grease stains. Rub gently with a soft brush and rinse after a few hours or overnight.

b) Rust Stains: To remove rust stains, use a commercial rust remover following the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to rinse thoroughly after use.

c) Tough Stains: For stubborn stains, consider using a fine-grit abrasive pad or a floor buffer with a soft pad. The epoxy surface can be damaged if you are too aggressive.

4. Preventing Scratches and Damage

While epoxy floors are durable, they are not entirely scratch-proof. To prevent scratches and damage:

a) Use Furniture Pads: You can protect furniture legs when moving them by placing felt or rubber pads under them.

b) Avoid Sharp Objects: It is important to take precautions when moving or dragging heavy or sharp objects. Use plywood sheets or other protective materials if needed.

c) Maintain Entrance Mats: Placing entrance mats at doorways can help trap dirt and debris, reducing the chances of abrasive particles being brought inside.

d) Regularly Inspect for Damage: Ensure your epoxy floors are periodically examined for signs of damage or wear. Cracks and chips should be noted. To prevent further damage, these issues must be addressed as soon as possible.

5. Recoating

Epoxy floors may fade or wear over time due to their glossy finish. When this happens, recoating can breathe new life into your floors. Recoating involves applying a new layer of epoxy to the existing floor, restoring its shine and durability.

In addition to foot traffic, wear and tear play a role in the frequency of recoating. In high-traffic areas, you may need to recoat every 2-3 years, while in low-traffic areas, it could be every 5-7 years. If you are not experienced in epoxy application, follow the manufacturer's instructions and hire a professional.

6. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Utilizing the right cleaning products is an important aspect of epoxy floor maintenance. Avoid harsh chemicals, including ammonia-based cleaners, citrus cleaners, and vinegar. These materials have the potential to harm and dull epoxy finishes. Don't use chemicals that are acidic or alkaline, and make sure that you follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

7. Professional Maintenance

Even though homeowners and business owners can handle regular cleaning and maintenance tasks, it's advisable to schedule periodic professional maintenance. Professional epoxy floor maintenance involves a comprehensive assessment of the floor's condition and may include deep cleaning, minor repairs, and recoating as needed.

Now that we've covered the basics of epoxy floor maintenance, let's explore some real-life examples of how these practices can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

In terms of aesthetic appeal as well as durability, epoxy floors are a great choice. It is important to maintain epoxy floors properly to ensure their longevity and beauty. You can enjoy epoxy flooring for years to come if you follow a regular cleaning routine, respond promptly to spills, and take preventive measures.

Remember, when it comes to epoxy floor maintenance, prevention is the best strategy. By being proactive and implementing these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your epoxy floors continue to impress visitors and provide a durable, easy-to-clean surface for years on end. And if you ever encounter a stubborn stain or need to restore the shine, don't hesitate to seek InnerCity Coating professional assistance; your epoxy floors will thank you for it.


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