Epoxy has been the default flooring option for a number of manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and restaurants. It has also been used in retail stores and a variety of other venues. It’s durable and easy to install. But while epoxy floors have a great deal of durability, they still require maintenance to keep their luster and structural integrity. If you want to keep your epoxy floors in top condition, you need to have some type of maintenance routine. The most fundamental part of it is regular sweeping.
Daily and Weekly Cleaning Routine
If you want to keep your epoxy flooring properly maintained, you need to have a consistent cleaning schedule. A daily sweep and dry mop will remove loose particles. It will also act as a safeguard against scratches and dirt buildup. You should do a deep clean once a week, which can be done with a hard foam or microfiber mop. Combine warm water with a cleaner that isn’t ammonia-based, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for dilution. You should also rinse the mop often to keep dirt from redistributing across the floor.
While epoxy flooring can resist water, it’s a good idea to limit its use while you’re cleaning. Pooled water can be harmful if it seeps through any crevices or edges. Go over the floor with a dry mop or towel to absorb any remaining moisture. You should also avoid using cleaners that have acids, solvents, or citrus-bases because they can erode the epoxy resin. If you have any persistent stains, a non-abrasive scrub pad can be cautiously used to avoid scratching. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly after you finish cleaning.
Taking Care of Chemical and Oil Spills
Chemical and oil spills can give your epoxy flooring a unique set of challenges. They need to be managed carefully and quickly to preserve the safety and integrity of the resin. If an oil spill occurs, you can soak it up with an oil-specific absorbent or some shop towels. But be sure to press down on the spill instead of rubbing it.
After most of the oil has been absorbed, apply an eco-friendly degreaser that’s compatible with epoxy. Allow it to penetrate according to the manufacturer’s instructions before lightly scrubbing it with a soft brush. Follow this process with a thorough rinse, but make sure you remove any slick residues.
If you’re faced with a chemical spill, you must first identify the substance and refer to its Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for more specific cleaning directions. Some chemicals may not react well to standard cleaners. You can neutralize the spill with an appropriate counteragent if it’s recommended and safe. Just make sure to wear protective gear and that the area is well-ventilated. More aggressive chemicals (such as solvents or caustics) will require immediate action to keep the epoxy finish intact, and any cleaning procedure should be followed by a good water rinse because it will eliminate any remnants of the chemical.
Scratch and Abrasion Prevention
Epoxy flooring is known for its resilience, but it’s not impervious to scuffs and marks that can affect its glossy finish. If you want to keep your epoxy floors in good condition, you should implement the following strategies:
- Use soft-wheeled furniture — Make sure that moveable items (such as chairs and tool stands) are fitted with rubber casters or cushioned pads, because it can keep the hard edges of wheels or furniture legs from carving your floor when it’s under a heavy load.
- Strategically place mats — Add durable mats or carpets in areas that experience more frequent activity or where there is heavy equipment. They should also have a non-slip underside so they’ll have a more secure buffer that will shield your floor from falling objects.
- Keep it consistently clean — By sweeping away dirt and debris on a regular basis, you can get rid of the fine particles that act like sandpaper underfoot or beneath tires.
- Elevate heavy equipment while moving them — While rearranging your space, you should always lift heavy items instead of sliding them. This will keep deep grooves from forming by the dragging motion.
- Be vigilant about vehicles — Be sure to keep vehicle tires free of stones and debris, because it will keep these materials from being pressed into the floor’s surface (which can cause scratches to form on the resin).
- Be mindful about tool handling — Use drop cloths or mats while you’re working with tools that can slip out of your grasp. Securely storing the tools will also reduce the risk of accidental floor damage.
By taking these steps, the chance of your epoxy flooring getting scratched will be reduced by a significant amount and will go a long way toward preserving its sleek appearance. If you’re looking for one of the best places for epoxy flooring in Los Angeles, be sure to get in touch with the Fiber Coat Deck Company.