Nothing wears a floor like traffic grinding dirt and grit against it. Sweeping regularly and using a dust mop removes loose debris before it can become abrasive.
Avoid abrasive cleaners and citrus-based degreasers as these can damage the epoxy coating. Instead, opt for a mild detergent mixed with warm water for regular cleaning so that it can last several years and even decades.
1. Sweep Daily
Using a dust mop or soft-bristled broom, regularly sweep your epoxy floor to keep it free of abrasive dirt, grit and debris that can scratch or etch the surface. Sweeping should occur daily in high traffic areas and weekly in lower traffic zones.
Whenever spills or leaks occur, clean them up right away to avoid staining the epoxy surface. Prompt cleaning can also help prevent chemical damage, preventing etching or scuffing of the floor coating. For liquids like oil and corrosive chemicals, it’s wise to place trays or mats beneath containers that may leak, drip or splash.
Avoiding abrasive tools and equipment, such as steel wool, on the floor also helps to preserve the integrity of the epoxy coating. These abrasive materials can scratch or dent the surface, and can also wear down epoxy sealers or base coats, allowing water or other contaminants to penetrate unsealed sections of the floor and weaken the adhesive bonds between the substrate and the epoxy coating.
Other preventive maintenance practices include putting down doormats at entryways to trap dirt and grit, and using furniture pads on movable furniture to avoid scratches. It’s also a good idea to encourage a “no-shoes” policy in your facility to help reduce abrasions and other damage.
Regular inspections and maintenance will keep your epoxy flooring looking and performing its best for years to come. Be sure to use pH-neutral cleaners and soft mop or cloths for surface cleaning. A periodic deep cleaning with a mop dampened in a solution of 2 to 3 ounces of clear ammonia per gallon of warm water can strip buildup and leave the floor clean. This will help to ensure a clean and hygienic work space that contributes to a healthier working environment.
2. Mop Weekly
Nothing grinds away an epoxy floor like dirt that is left to sit on the surface. Whether it’s human feet or heavy machinery, the grit will eventually wear down the epoxy coating, making the surface dull and prone to damage. To reduce this problem, sweep the floor on a daily basis and mop it weekly, or more often if necessary.
When mopping, be sure to use a neutral pH cleaner that won’t corrode the epoxy. Heavily acidic or alkaline cleaners can etch or discolor the finish, so they should only be used in the case of emergency. Also, be sure to rinse the floor thoroughly afterward. Otherwise, soap residue can remain on the floor’s surface, which will cause it to become dull and slippery.
Stains can be a huge issue for anyone with epoxy floors, and they should be addressed as soon as possible. This will prevent the stains from worsening over time, requiring a costly replacement of the floor. Also, it’s a good idea to perform quarterly assessments of the flooring and check for signs that it may need repairs or a new coat of epoxy.
Cracks in the epoxy are a big sign that it’s time to replace the flooring. These cracks can enlarge over time, and they’ll weaken the coating and make it prone to moisture intrusion.
3. Clean Surfaces Regularly
Although epoxy floors are highly resilient, they need regular care to retain their appearance and structural integrity. Neglecting upkeep can exacerbate minor issues into larger ones, ultimately shortening the floor’s lifespan. To protect your investment, set a cleaning schedule and follow these best practices to preserve your epoxy flooring.
Sweep on a daily basis to remove dust, dirt, and debris from the surface of the epoxy. This prevents scratching and keeps the epoxy clean. It’s also important to scrub the epoxy at least once a week, and more often in high-traffic areas. Use a non-abrasive brush and mild detergent to clean the surface, and be sure to rinse away all leftover soap.
Clean up spills promptly to avoid staining the epoxy floor. Epoxy is resistant to most substances, but if certain chemicals or liquids are left to sit for long periods of time, they may cause damage or discoloration. If you encounter a tenacious mark, try a solution of baking soda and water, or a dab of isopropyl alcohol for stubborn stains.
Keep a supply of protective mats near entrance points to reduce the amount of dirt tracked onto the epoxy flooring. In high-traffic areas, encourage employees to remove their shoes before entering to further limit the amount of wear and tear on the floor.
Perform quarterly assessments of your epoxy flooring to monitor the condition of the coating and its substrate. Look for fine cracks and signs of the coating lifting, as well as areas of moisture intrusion that could undermine the adhesion of the epoxy to the concrete base. This type of inspection can help you address problems early on, minimizing the chance that they will progress into more extensive damage.
4. Fix Flaws and Faults Regularly
The most basic preventive strategy is to always check the floor for flaws or damage on a regular basis. This includes examining the floor for stains, cracks, or any other damages to the surface, and quickly responding to spills and leaks. For example, if an oil or coolant leaks onto the floor, immediately respond by wiping up the liquid with paper towels and cleaning the area. If the liquid contains a corrosive substance like battery acid, neutralize it before washing it off with a mild cleaner or isopropyl alcohol.
In addition, regularly sweeping or vacuuming helps keep dirt and dust off the epoxy surface, which can cause scratches. It is also recommended to place protective mats at all entrances to minimize the amount of abrasive debris tracked in by foot traffic or machinery. It is also advised to use furniture pads or coasters under the legs of large pieces of furniture, rather than dragging them over the epoxy floor, as this can create unsightly dents and scratches.
Another important tip for ensuring the longevity of an epoxy floor is to only apply it in temperatures that are indicated on the product’s instructions. If applied to the incorrect temperature, the epoxy may not harden fully and it could develop inconsistencies, bubbles, or craters.
Lastly, the expertly trained and certified personnel at a professional coating company can offer valuable tips and advice for maintaining an epoxy floor. It is always best to err on the side of caution and consult a qualified professional to help prevent costly mistakes that can ruin an otherwise great floor for years to come. Whether it is to make sure the customer understands the benefits and advantages of an epoxy floor or simply to recommend the appropriate maintenance schedule, these professionals have your best interests in mind when they give their expert advice.
5. Repair Any Damage
Aside from the normal wear and tear of foot traffic, dirt, and other environmental conditions can impact the longevity of epoxy floors. Fortunately, a bit of preventative care can go a long way in preserving the appearance and function of your flooring.
Sweeping daily keeps dust, sand, and grit from scratching or wearing away the epoxy coating. Regular sweeping also helps keep the surface clear of abrasive particles that can cause damage to equipment and tools. If your facility has a lot of foot traffic, consider adding mats to doorways and hallways to catch abrasive particles as they enter.
When mopping your epoxy floors, use mild detergents or pH-neutral cleaners. These are safe for use and won’t leave a filmy residue that dulls the epoxy’s luster. If you’re unsure of the proper cleaning chemical for your flooring, consult with an expert at your local epoxy company.
Oil, coolant, and other fluid spills must be dealt with immediately to prevent deterioration of the floor’s surface. If the fluid seeps under the epoxy, it can erode the layer and cause significant damage to the substrate underneath.
It’s also important to ensure that movable furniture and equipment have non-marking wheels or pads. Changing the wheels on chairs, carts, or other equipment can drastically reduce the risk of abrasive rubbing or unsightly scratches on your epoxy floors. Similarly, storing tools safely or laying down drop cloths while working can help to protect the floor and avoid accidents that could damage the surface. Lastly, periodic inspections can identify issues early on and allow for quick repair to extend the lifespan of your epoxy floor. These simple steps can significantly improve the longevity of your flooring and make it an asset to your business.