How do you clean epoxy floors?
Cleaning an epoxy floor is an extensive job in any warehouse or larger space, making it a job best left to a professional who can get it done quickly and effectively. However, there are several bits of maintenance you should perform by yourself in between professional cleanings. For example, you can remove grit from the floor with a broom, dust mop and/or shop vacuum. Make sure you wipe away chemical spills like automotive fluids before they become permanent spots on the floor.
What are the different types of epoxy floor coatings?
There are many different options for epoxy floor coatings, including:
Water-based epoxy coating
100% solids epoxy
Polyurethane topcoat
Metallic epoxy
Mortar epoxy coatings
Self-leveling epoxy coating
Self-dispersing epoxy coating
Flake epoxy flooring
Mortar epoxy coating
Graveled epoxy coating
Terrazzo epoxy coating
And more
Talk to an epoxy flooring specialist in your area to see what your options are, and get advice on the best type to use on your floors.
What are epoxy floors?
Epoxy itself is made of polymer resins and hardening agents like glues, which (when mixed) cure to form a strong and durable chemical bond. Epoxy floors are excellent choices for warehouses, workshops, garages and other high-traffic, high-use areas where spill resistance is important. Epoxy floors are famously resilient, shiny and easy to keep clean.
How thick is epoxy floor coating?
Epoxy floor coatings typically range from 0.011 inches (11 mils) to 0.375 inches (375 mils). Thin coating systems have wide variability in their performance and are generally best for low-traffic areas, with the exception being high-performance topcoats that can handle heavier traffic in low-impact situations. Oftentimes, thicker coatings mean your project might be more expensive but will last longer. Talk to epoxy flooring professionals near you to discuss the pros and cons of thick and thin coatings.
What is the best epoxy garage floor coating?
The best epoxy garage floor coating is a premium multi-layer epoxy system. When you hire a professional, you can choose more durable options like 100% solids epoxy floor coating, which is great for repelling stains and abrasion. Choose a clear epoxy or polyurethane top coat to protect this layer.
What are the advantages of epoxy flooring?
Epoxy flooring has several advantages. The biggest benefit is its durability. Epoxy floors are highly durable and tend to outlast standard flooring systems. A few other pros include:
It’s also easy to maintain due to its glossy finish and seamless nature.
It can be highly customized. You can choose different colors, designs, effects and even inserts like coins, flakes and other details.
It's affordable — far more so than hardwood and other types of flooring. This value continues to pay off over time.
It can be slip-resistant with additional additives.
What's the best flooring for basements, kitchens and bathrooms?
When installing flooring in your home, keep in mind that some materials are better suited for certain rooms while others are not. Use this guide to help you make the best decision for your home.
Best Flooring for Basements
Basement flooring should be highly resistant to moisture, as many basements are below grade. Choosing the best flooring for basement spaces depends on what they’ll be used for. For example:
An epoxy basement floor is a durable finish for concrete.
Vinyl basement flooring is generally waterproof or water-resistant.
Laminate floors can be an affordable option, but they’re often not 100% waterproof.
Ceramic tile floors are also water-resistant.
If your basement isn’t moist, carpet tiles are also an option — just make sure to use a moisture barrier.
Best Flooring for Kitchens
Kitchen flooring does more work than almost any floor in the house, so you’ll want to choose a durable floor. The following are among the best flooring types for kitchens:
Porcelain tiles can be fashionable, moisture-resistant, and cost less than stone or wood to install.
Vinyl flooring can withstand dents, is generally inexpensive and it’s easy to install.
Linoleum flooring can be durable, easy to maintain and affordable.
Wood flooring could be damaged by dropped pots and pans, furniture and pets. However, hardwood and engineered wood floors in kitchen spaces are still popular among homeowners.
Best Flooring for Bathrooms
Bathroom flooring must withstand high moisture levels while also being comfortable on bare feet. Here are some of the best flooring options for bathrooms:
Porcelain tiles are generally comfortable, waterproof, stylish and less costly than stone or wood.
Vinyl flooring is waterproof, cost-effective and can imitate wood convincingly.
Natural stone can be expensive, but it’s typically hard and durable.
Reach out to a flooring installation and repair professional near you to see which type you should install in your home.