Epoxy flooring is known for its durability, stunning finishes, versatility, and low maintenance. However, failing to maintain the surface can have negative impacts, including drastically shortening its lifespan.
Here, we will discuss the various methods and precautions you can take to get the most out of your epoxy resin floor.Â
Clean Surfaces Regularly
One of the key methods for preventing damage to your epoxy floors is timeliness. Removing any dirt and grit as soon it is spotted is the simplest way to keep your floor in good health. A small amount of dirt may seem to be of no concern but it could still scratch the surface, damaging it.
It is also possible for dirt particles to become embedded into the surface, leading to difficulty when cleaning and resulting in unattractive blemishes. The pressure applied on the floor by the movement of heavy machinery or cars can further the extent of the damage caused by dirt and grit on epoxy floors.
Making a habit of regularly cleaning your epoxy floors is sure to help avoid any accidental damage. The best methods for this are to either wipe with warm water and a mop or use a shop vacuum and soft brush.
Use Safe Cleaning Products
Capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic and even vehicles, the durability of epoxy floors is one of its most well-known and sought-after properties. However, it is still possible to damage this fantastic flooring when using abrasive cleaning products.
Here are some other products that you should avoid when cleaning an epoxy floor:
- Products containing citric acid or vinegar – The chemicals contained in these can break down the epoxy catalyst, destroying the floor.
- Regular soap – Your everyday soap is also not safe to use when cleaning an epoxy floor. It may not cause physical damage but it can result in a misty appearance, ruining the aesthetic appeal. Over time, this can build and become problematic to remove.
- Unsuitable tools – Unsafe products aren’t just limited to chemicals. Using unsuitable tools can be just as harmful. Any stiff brushes, steel wool, or other abrasives should be avoided completely.
When cleaning an epoxy floor, all you should need is warm water and a mop, a soft brush, or a kitchen-grade scrubbing sponge.
In the case that the stain is not being removed with the above-suggested method, a small amount of soft soap may be added to the water.
Don't Forgo Spot Cleaning
The impervious nature of epoxy may lead you to believe that it is harmless to leave spills on the floor for extended amounts of time. However, this is not the case and may result in unnecessary damage that could have been avoided with spot cleaning.
Upon noticing a spill or dirt, it should be cleaned quickly. Warm water should be applied afterwards to ensure that the floor is clean.
Spilling chemicals, such as paint, on epoxy floors can be a large problem if not dealt with swiftly. However, the waterproof properties make wiping up spills as simple as using a paper cloth, if done with haste.
Dealing With Tougher Dirt
The usual methods of sweeping and vacuuming followed by a mop and warm water are sometimes ineffective against tougher stains and further action will need to be taken. A small amount of soft soap combined with a hard foam mop can often achieve great results. If this provides little success, mix a solution at five ounces of clear ammonia per gallon of hot water. Soak the hard foam mop within this mixture and use it to scrub the stain away.
Conclusion
Thanks to the ease of cleaning and maintenance, epoxy floors are a fantastic solution for almost any property. This, however, should not be mistaken as an opportunity to treat the surfaces as though they are invincible. As long as spills, dirt, and stains are kept under control using the correct cleaning products and equipment, your epoxy floors will stay in top condition for a long time.
