The biggest advantage with installing an epoxy floor system is that they are so easy to clean, maintain and sanitize. But it is very vital to follow some simple tips for cleaning to ensure the optimum performance and appearance of an epoxy floor.
Here are some tips for proper care of both residential and commercial epoxy flooring:
Wait Till Complete Cure
In the majority of cases, epoxy floors can endure light foot traffic, 24 hours following installation. But they cannot be exposed to water till the entire floor is cured. Experts recommend waiting for 48 to 72 hours, prior to cleaning your epoxy floors with any cleaning agents or water.
Sweep Away
For removing dirt built-up daily, the best idea is to pick up the broom and sweep. Using a hand broom with attachments of soft bristles is recommended. If necessary, you can also use a vacuum. Avoid using harsh nylon pads or brushes with stiff bristles, since they may cause scratches on the surface of the epoxy floor.
Neutralize Spills of Chemicals
In case there is a chemical spill, it is vital to instantly neutralize the spill and clean the area as fast as possible. One must take care to remember the combination and concentration of chemicals, duration of time the epoxy floor is subject to chemical spills as well as room temperature. These may impact the overall performance and appearance, in case you don’t deal with a spill, right away.
Daily Cleaning
Products and solutions meant for cleaning can be used to disinfect and clean epoxy floors on a daily basis. Experts recommend keeping things simple. One can use the following formula- mix 1/3 cups dish-washing liquid with 4 to 5 litres of water and do floor mopping.
Test Cleaning
With regard to disinfecting and cleaning epoxy floors, know that some cleaning agents can impact colour, texture and gloss of the surface. For the sake of precaution, it is recommended you test the disinfecting and cleaning agent on a sample patch of the floor, prior to applying it everywhere.
Cleaning With Hot Water
When you are using water to clean your epoxy floor, take care that the temperature must not touch 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not create puddles while cleaning with water (whatever be the temperature) and ensure that nozzles and hoses are moving constantly during the cleaning process.
Sealing after Waxing
Waxes and sealers can be used on finished epoxy floors for providing a great lustre to the floor. Experts recommend only a thin coat. All the old and complete coats of sealers and waxes must be stripped before applying a fresh coat. Devices featuring sanding or coarse grit must not be used to prevent old sealer and wax build-up, because they can damage the floor.
Dealing with Slip Resistance
Epoxy floors feature either a rough or smooth surface finish. Finishes of rough texture are used mostly in industries where slip-resistance is mandatory. Such textured surfaces need a more extensive cleaning process to make sure all contaminants, as well as dirt, are removed from all nooks and crannies. For such surfaces, experts recommend the use of a bristle-type cleaning brush to ensure all areas are properly disinfected and cleaned.
These are all some tips for proper care of epoxy floors.
