One of the many perks offered by epoxy coating is ease of maintenance. However, this plastic-like material — though known for its durability and resistance to impacts and moisture — still requires regular cleaning to help maximize its life.
Epoxy flooring typically lasts anywhere from 10 to 30 years, depending on traffic, strength of concrete foundation, and weight of the objects it supports, among many other factors. If you want your epoxy-coated floor to reach and even go beyond this age, here are seven must-know cleaning tips:
Keep it free from dirt. It will take time before epoxy floors show damage — nonetheless, it doesn’t mean that they are free from dirt, grit, scratches, and abrasions. To extend their lifespan, regular sweeping and vacuuming (using a cleaner with a soft brush attachment) is a must.
Do spot cleaning whenever needed. Apart from regular cleaning, spot cleaning is also an important task. Whenever there’s a spill or whenever something has been tracked in, immediately vacuum or sweep the affected area. Even though epoxy coating is water-resistant, it is not permanently impermeable. Address small damages before they worsen and require costly repairs.
Mind your cleaning agents. As mentioned, simple sweeping and vacuuming can do the trick for dirty epoxy floors. Experts don’t necessarily recommend using cleaning agents (unless the floor is heavily soiled; this, we’ll tackle in the succeeding bullet). Keep in mind that you should avoid using soap-based cleaners or cleaners that contain acids (e.g. Vinegar) — these can leave residue that may cause your floor to lose its shine and become more slippery when wet.
Clean heavily-soiled epoxy floors with a water-and-ammonia solution. If you read any article regarding cleaning heavily soiled epoxy flooring, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter using diluted ammonia solution. In a gallon of hot water, put three to four ounces of ammonia and apply it on the affected area using a microfiber mop. To avoid the buildup of grime and residue, deep-cleaning your floor using this method should be done bi-monthly.
Be gentle when getting rid of stains and spills.This type of dirt should be removed using warm water and a dedicated kitchen scrubbing sponge (or a soft deck brush). Observe utmost gentleness when brushing or scrubbing. For chemical spills, use a paper towel immediately, then dispose of the towel properly. Though epoxy coating is chemical-resistant, attending to this matter as soon as possible will prevent the spillage from worsening.
Actively prevent damage. Cleaning is one thing. But actively preventing damage is another. To prolong the life of your epoxy flooring, experts recommend using protective mats in areas with high traffic. If you are moving something with a heavy load, you are advised to place plywood underneath the said object to prevent causing damage to the floor.
Recoat every few years. Over time, epoxy coating loses its shine. And if you’re not careful to avoid cleaning products with harsh chemicals, this flooring’s glossy finish can be ruined more quickly. To maintain its aesthetic appeal, you might need to recoat it every few years.
7 Tips On How To Properly Clean Your Epoxy Floor
