When you decide to coat your commercial floors with epoxy, ensuring the job is done correctly the first time is crucial. Your business operations take place on these floors, and any issues can lead to operational delays and lost profits. Therefore, maintaining your epoxy floors properly is not an option -it’s a necessity.
Importance of Skilled Floor Maintenance
Though epoxy floors are renowned for their durability and ease of maintenance, incorrect cleaning procedures can compromise these advantages. Whether due to inexperienced staff or inadequate cleaning techniques, improper care can damage your epoxy floors. Therefore, understanding how to clean them properly is essential.
Best Tips for Maintaining Epoxy Flooring
Contrary to popular belief, maintaining epoxy flooring doesn’t necessarily require hiring specialized cleaning services. You can perform the cleaning yourself, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.
- Spot Cleaning Methods – Small spills are bound to occur on any commercial floor. The optimal way to clean these is by using a shop vacuum to remove the liquid and any residual debris. After vacuuming, mop the area with warm water. Epoxy’s water-resistant properties make such cleanup tasks relatively simple.
- Handling Large Messes – For extensive cleaning, begin by removing any surface debris. Subsequently, use a hard foam mop and warm-to-hot water to remove accumulated grime. For an additional level of cleanliness, a second mopping using a dilution of 2 to 3 ounces of ammonia per gallon of hot water is advisable.
- Stain Removal Techniques – Removing rust or other stubborn stains involves lightly scrubbing the affected area with warm water using a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge. Avoid steel wool or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the epoxy surface.
- Debris Management – It’s essential to keep the floor free from dirt and grit that could become embedded in the epoxy over time. Regularly vacuum the floor using an industrial shop vacuum with a soft-bristle attachment. Make sure the floor is clear of debris before moving heavy machinery across it to prevent scratches.
- Avoiding Soap-Based Cleaners – Continuous use of soap-based cleaners can result in a hazy appearance on the epoxy surface. Warm water is usually sufficient for general cleaning. If stronger cleaning power is required, opt for mild, non-soap-based cleaners.
While it may be tempting to handle floor cleaning internally to save on costs, remember that improper cleaning methods can result in damages that necessitate expensive repairs or replacements. Therefore, a proper understanding and execution of epoxy floor maintenance protocols can save your company both time and money in the long run.
