Commercial and Industrial Epoxy Flooring

Stronger concrete floors make workspaces better. Epoxy flooring systems give commercial and industrial concrete floors a strong, durable, finished surface that stands up well to daily wear demands.

What is Commercial and Industrial Epoxy Flooring?

Commercial and industrial epoxy flooring is a protective floor system applied to properly prepared concrete using a resin-based coating. When the epoxy cures (hardens), it creates a more durable floor that withstands wear, staining, chemicals, moisture, and damage from impacts better than bare concrete.

The best system for the job is determined by what you plan to use the floor for. For example, a retail store may need an attractive, clean finish that can handle foot traffic. A warehouse may require a tougher, more slip-resistant finish with higher traffic marking capabilities. A manufacturing area may need a thicker build, chemical resistance, or a finish that allows for easy cleaning. Epoxy can be designed to fit all of these needs.

Areas That Are Improved With Epoxy Coatings

An epoxy finish works well in places where bare concrete needs additional protection against wear and tear; where cleaning is more difficult; and where a nicer finish would enhance the overall look of the building. Some of these areas may include:

• Warehouse and distribution facilities
• Production and manufacturing buildings
• Retail showrooms and store spaces
• Service bays and maintenance areas
• Commercial kitchens, utility spaces, storage rooms, and wet-room areas

Performance That Fits the Space

A good epoxy system starts with the correct design. Choosing the right build, texture, color, and protective topcoat for the space includes consideration of the following:

• The amount of foot traffic, carts, and equipment expected determines the thickness of the application.
• The need for improved grip in wet areas necessitates more texture.
• Coatings that are chemical resistant.
• The desired appearance of the floor determines solid or decorative colors.
• Added striping, zones, or color blocks for safety of employees and visual organization and flow.

Epoxy Installation Method

A strong and enduring epoxy floor system depends on proper concrete preparation.

• We examine the concrete for cracks, stains, coatings, moisture concerns, weak spots, and any other damage.
• Our installation team cleans the concrete surface, preparing it to bond well with the epoxy coating.
• Any damaged areas are repaired and leveled before the coating system is installed.
• A base coat or thicker build coat is applied based on the traffic, impact, and protection needs of the floor.
• The finish layer, texture, striping, or topcoat is added to support cleaning, traction, and return-to-use expectations.

Epoxy Floor Care Basics

While epoxy floors are designed to reduce ongoing maintenance tasks, there are some basic items that need to be done periodically.

• Clean up debris/grit before it causes scratching/scoring on your floor.
• Clean spills quickly and according to the type of spill encountered.
• Use cleaning products/tools specifically designed for cleaning your particular finish.

High-traffic pathways or loading/unloading areas typically see wear and tear faster than lower-usage areas. Be sure to select an epoxy coating system that addresses these potential usage areas to improve its lasting performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are common questions business owners ask before choosing commercial or industrial epoxy flooring.

What is the difference between commercial and industrial epoxy?

While both commercial and industrial epoxy materials contain similar components, selections depend on the application thickness, topcoat, and texture, based on the floor’s intended use. Commercial epoxy coatings are generally used in office settings, showrooms, service departments, and general business operation areas. Industrial epoxy coatings are generally applied to concrete floors that are expected to receive more abuse, such as heavy equipment traffic, chemical exposures, high levels of cleaning, and production line work.

Do epoxy-coated floors stand up to forklifts and heavy equipment?

Yes, they can. The right epoxy system can be designed for equipment traffic, carts, pallet jacks, and heavy use. When designing the system, the concrete condition, traffic patterns, wheel type, turning areas, and impact risk should all be taken into consideration to create a floor coating that will stand up to expected stressors.

Is epoxy flooring easy to clean?

Yes. The epoxy system creates a fully sealed surface that dust, stains, and spills don’t penetrate, making the surface easier to clean and maintain.

Can I add colored markings to my epoxy floor?

Yes, epoxy flooring, especially in industrial settings, often includes color zones, striping, walkways, loading areas, and work zones. This application helps organize a space, guide safe movement, and improve the appearance of the facility.

Is a textured epoxy finish necessary?

No, not always. If appearance is the main priority, such as in a showroom or retail space, a smooth finish works well. Textured finishes are recommended for wet areas, entry points, wash-down spaces, ramps, or work areas where safety and traction are important. The best choice will take into consideration how the floor will be used.