There’s nothing quite as striking as a newly finished epoxy floor. Customers love the impeccably smooth look and incredibly durable floor that never dulls, scuffs, or ages. However, while epoxy is one of the most durable garage floor coatings out there, it requires regular maintenance to uphold the pristine condition for years to come. If you opted for an epoxy coating, chances are, appearances were a significant contributor to the ultimate decision to choose epoxy. The look of your floor dictates the immaculate feel of the environment. Furthermore, keeping the floor clean and free of debris, spills, stains, and other interruptions is the best way to maintain the seamless appearance of the epoxy. Here are five easy ways to ensure the beauty of an epoxy floor for the long haul.
Sweep and/or Dust Mop Weekly
This one is pretty basic, but many epoxy-floor owners skip this step or don’t do it enough. This is the first line of defense against the dulling of an epoxy floor. You can use a mechanized sweeper, a soft bristle broom or a dust mop. Ideally, sweep once a week or more if needed. For floors with a polymer anti-slip additive on the exterior, a dust mop is acceptable. If your epoxy floor has anti-slip aggregates, a broom with soft bristles is best.
Wash your Floors Every Week
In addition to sweeping or dust mopping your floors, you should also mop your floors regularly. Using a hard-foam mop and warm or hot water, get rid of any built-up dirt that could be causing the floor to look grimy and dull. Mop weekly for best results. However, the frequency depends on the amount of foot traffic across the epoxy surface. If your garage is a high-traffic area, then consider mopping every day. A mechanized floor scrubber with soft bristles works for this as well. Avoid harsh chemicals, vinegar, or citrus-based cleaning solutions in your mop water since these solutions contain acids that eat away at the epoxy’s gloss. Soap may leave a residue that dulls the floor and makes the floor more slippery when it’s wet, creating a hazard. Keep cleaning simple with just warm or hot water.
Spot Clean and Clean Up Minor Spills
If a spill happens, take care of it right away. Don’t allow it to dry and settle in. Epoxy floors are easiest to clean when a spill first happens. Spills present more of a challenge when allowed to settle. They are easiest to clean because epoxy is very water-resistant. First of all, spills are hazardous because the liquid makes the floor extra slippery. Second, if the substance is harsh, corrosive, or acidic, prolonged exposure could permanently damage the epoxy. Lastly, any material that dries on the surface will eventually harden, become sticky, or leave a residue that blemishes the epoxy. To clean up minor spills, fluid splashes, or leaks, a paper towel or soft cloth is sufficient. If you find the spill after a film has begun to develop, use a little bit of Windex or a similar cleaning solution. If it is dirt or a hard-to-remove the stain, use a stiff nylon brush and water to clean it up. If the dirt is still not coming off, you can then use a cleaning agent. However, be sure the cleaner contains no vinegar or citrus. Be careful not to scrub too hard when cleaning up to avoid damaging the epoxy.
Use Floor Mats
Use floor mats in spaces with construction, repairs, welding, or other heavy-duty projects that may cause chemical spills or sparks that threaten the floor. Entryway mats are also useful for protecting against dirt and moisture often tracked in by shoe bottoms. During winter, keep the entryway floor mat in place at all times, as the chances
Avoid Bringing Sharp Objects Onto the Epoxy Flooring
Yes, high-quality epoxy has a greater resistance to scratching than other flooring options. But, it is still not completely impenetrable. Take care not to slide sharp objects over the floor that could cut in and puncture the floor coating. Not only does the scratch itself mar the smooth look, but it also opens up an area for liquids and other materials to get in and damage the coating. Keeping grit and sand off the floor, as previously mentioned, also falls into this category as it could create more friction and scratch the epoxy. While epoxy is durable and can take quite the beating before becoming visible, over time, sand or grit left on the surface will dull the pristine surface. Vacuuming periodically is an excellent way to keep sand or dirt from damaging the floor. Lastly, take precautions not to slide heavy furniture or machinery across an epoxy surface. Arrange for a way to elevate up off the floor before moving it, so you avoid damaging the epoxy coating.
