Epoxy flooring: why it is such a high performance coating
The reason why epoxy flooring is used extensively in industrial and commercial flooring in Melbourne as a high performance coating is due to the properties of the epoxy resin. Epoxy resins are products that are known for their:
Outstanding resistance to chemicals
Surface and sub-surface bonding
Mechanical properties
At NWIF, we have been commercial flooring melbourne experts that have dealt with epoxy for flooring for over a decade and can attest to its high-performing nature.
Epoxy resin systems are comprised of an epoxy resin and a hardening agent that is also known as a catalyst or curing agent. Single molecules of the epoxy resin chemical (monomers) and the catalyst join together to form long sequences of molecules called polymers, which are stronger than the monomers. As this combination cures, it becomes a hard polymer and, depending on what solvents, catalysts and fillers are added, it takes on hardwearing, heat/chemical resistant and abrasion resistant properties.
Epoxy resin that is used with concrete substrates for flooring comes in three types of formulas: water based, solvent based and 100% solids. This latter formula of 100% solids is generally the most popular one used in commercial and industrial flooring, as the lack of liquid or solvent fillers means a relatively odour free installation. The curing process is caused exclusively by the chemical reaction between the base and the epoxy resin.
Strength and durability
Although concrete is a very strong and durable material, epoxy flooring can be up to seven times stronger. This means that the lifespan of the floor is extended, and because of its resistance to chips and abrasions, it is a very high performance product that requires minimal ongoing maintenance.
Chemical and acid resistant
If the floor is going to be subject to spillage from chemicals, particularly acidic solutions, epoxy flooring should be the coating of choice. Thanks to its outstanding and long lasting resistance to chemicals, with general house keeping it will not stain or discolour so it will keep on looking as good as it did on the day it was installed.
Waterproof and seamless
Unlike concrete, which has minute holes or pores on the surface, epoxy flooring is non-porous. Water and other liquids cannot penetrate its surface so it is not susceptible to contaminants such as bacteria, for example. As it cannot harbour germs and it can be easily cleaned, it makes an ideal surface for environments that require sterile flooring. Hospitals, laboratories and food preparation areas will all benefit from epoxy flooring, and as it can be installed without seams, rising up to above skirting board level, it meets the Australian regulations for health and hygiene. The substrate below the epoxy is maintained as well, because water or other liquids cannot get through, so the flooring will stand the test of time.
Design and customisation
Finally, epoxy flooring comes in literally hundreds of colours, shades and intensities of shine and gloss, which means that whatever the design specifications, there will be an epoxy resin to suit. Epoxy flooring keeps its good looks, even with foot and vehicular traffic, making it the floor of choice for public spaces, as well as office blocks and residential properties. Depending on the operational needs of your premises, epoxy flooring can be customised to suit your needs – not just the colour but also the strength, texture, depth and resistance to chemicals.
With all these enduring characteristics, it is no wonder that epoxy flooring continues to be a high performance coating, one that is the preferred choice for industrial and commercial spaces in Melbourne.