If you’ve ever considered installing epoxy flooring in your home or business, you may have come across some conflicting information about this type of flooring. To help clear up any confusion, we’re debunking the top 5 misconceptions about epoxy floors.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What epoxy flooring is
- How it’s installed
- The benefits of epoxy floors
- Top 5 misconceptions about epoxy floors
This is to help you decide whether epoxy flooring is the right choice for your space.
Table of Contents
What Is Epoxy Flooring?
Epoxy flooring is a type of resin-based floor coating. It’s typically made up of two parts: a base coat and a topcoat. The basecoat is usually clear, while the topcoat can be pigmented to create different colors and finishes.
Epoxy flooring is most commonly used in commercial and industrial settings because it’s durable and easy to clean. However, it can also be used in residential settings.
How Is Epoxy Flooring Installed?
A professional contractor usually installs epoxy flooring. First, the existing floor must be prepared by cleaning it and repairing any cracks or damage. Next, the base coat is applied and allowed to cure. Once the base coat is dry, the topcoat is applied. Again, this layer must be allowed to cure before the floor can be used.
The entire process usually takes a few days to complete. However, curing times will vary depending on the temperature and humidity of the space.
Where is Epoxy Typically Installed?
Epoxy flooring is most commonly installed in:
- Commercial kitchens
- Restaurants
- Retail stores
- Garages
- Warehouses
- Industrial facilities
- Hospitals
- Schools
Epoxy can also be used in residential settings, such as basements, mudrooms, and laundry rooms. You can even install epoxy flooring in your home garage.
What Are The Benefits Of Epoxy Flooring?
Epoxy flooring has many benefits, so it’s such a popular choice for commercial and industrial settings. Some of the most notable benefits include:
Durability
Epoxy floors are durable and can last for years with proper care. They’re resistant to many common household chemicals, making them easy to clean and maintain. Additionally, epoxy floors can handle heavy foot traffic and equipment without showing wear.
Aesthetics
Epoxy floors can be customized to create different looks. For example, you can add chips or flakes to the topcoat to produce a slip-resistant surface with added traction. You can also choose from a variety of colors and finishes to create the perfect look for your space.
Safety
Epoxy floors are slip-resistant, making them safer than many other types of flooring. This is especially beneficial in commercial kitchens and other wet areas where slippery floors can lead to accidents. Additionally, epoxy floors are fire-resistant, so they can help reduce the spread of fire in an accident.
What Are The Top 5 Misconceptions About Epoxy Floors?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of epoxy flooring, let’s dispel some of the most common misconceptions about this type of flooring.
1. Epoxy Floors Are Only Suitable for Commercial Use
Epoxy floors are often seen in commercial settings because they’re durable and easy to maintain. However, epoxy floors can also be used in residential homes. Though it may surprise some, epoxy flooring is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like mudrooms and laundry rooms because it’s easy to clean.
2. Epoxy Floors Are Slippery and Unsafe
Many people believe that epoxy floors are slippery and unsafe. However, this is not the case. Epoxy floors can be made slip-resistant by adding chips or flakes to the topcoat. Additionally, epoxy floors are fire-resistant, making them safer than many other types of flooring.
3. Epoxy Floors Are Difficult to Install
Though epoxy floors should be installed by a professional, the process is really quite simple. First, the existing base must be prepared by cleaning it and repairing any cracks or damage. Next, the base coat is applied and allowed to cure. Once the base coat is dry, the topcoat is applied. Again, this layer must be allowed to cure before the floor can be used.
4. Epoxy Floors Require a Lot of Maintenance
Epoxy floors are surprisingly simple to maintain. They’re resistant to many common household chemicals, making them easy to clean. Additionally, epoxy floors can handle heavy foot traffic and equipment without showing wear and tear.
5. Epoxy Floors Are Expensive
The cost of epoxy flooring varies depending on the size of the space and the project’s complexity. However, epoxy floors are typically more affordable than other types of flooring, such as tile or stone.
Epoxy flooring is an excellent choice for many homes and businesses because it’s durable, easy to maintain, and slip-resistant. If you’re considering epoxy flooring for your space, be sure to dispel any misconceptions you may have about this type of flooring.
If you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-maintain, and slip-resistant flooring option, epoxy flooring may be the perfect choice for you. Though there are some misconceptions about epoxy floors, we hope this has helped dispel some of those myths.
Please contact your local flooring professional to gain more information about epoxy floor coatings. They will be able to help you choose the best type of flooring for your home or business.