Considering installing epoxy flooring in your home or commercial space but unsure of the pros and cons and whether or not it’s the right choice? Don’t choose your flooring solution blindly; make the most informed decision possible by being aware of the advantages and disadvantages of epoxy flooring systems.
During the epoxy application process, wet epoxy gives off an unpleasant smell. Epoxy staff wears masks and safety goggles to protect themselves, as the fumes are not only unfavorable in scent but can also be toxic.
Highly asthmatic individuals should proceed with great caution during the application of epoxy flooring and are encouraged to check in with a health professional about the decision to include it in their home. The area receiving an epoxy application should be thoroughly ventilated to protect any persons near the space from the hazards of epoxy fumes.
However, after the epoxy is fully cured, there is no longer a smell unless the coating is further sanded, causing epoxy resin dust to enter the air space.
Installation of epoxy flooring systems takes several days to cure completely, depending on the type of epoxy coating and the intensity of the project. Applications usually take 72 hours to dry and cure completely. However, applying epoxy in smaller home areas such as garages could take only 24 hours.
The curing time can be an inconvenience if the epoxy flooring is being applied inside the home or business where there may normally be ample foot traffic, or if you are located in a humid climate, as this will increase drying time.
Because epoxy is non-porous, it can become extremely slippery when wet. This is especially dangerous if epoxy is applied in a location where small children or the elderly are going to be traversing on the flooring regularly.
There are mitigating factors to this disadvantage, all of which can be added or adjusted during the application process and should be discussed with your epoxy flooring experts, but will come at an additional cost. With these additional materials, the epoxy floor coating could become mostly non-slip! It all depends on the epoxy flooring application you choose.
Compared to many other types of flooring, epoxy is relatively inexpensive per square foot. Additionally, installment doesn't require a complete overhaul; epoxy can be applied directly on top of pre-existing concrete, wood, or steel. Replacement/reapplication costs are even lower, giving epoxy flooring an efficient lifetime cost.
Epoxy coatings are low-maintenance and require little if any repairs, which gives it an added boost in its long-term value.
Unlike many flooring choices for residential and commercial spaces, epoxy coating is not susceptible to damage that often results from normal wear-and-tear. It won’t crack, peel, or erode like laminate, wood, or other flooring types. Cured epoxy is moisture-resistant and able to withstand very heavy weights.
Additionally, epoxy flooring has many options for added top coatings (such as urethane) that increase its strength and durability.
Epoxy can withstand temperatures of below 0° and over 140° Fahrenheit. It is also resistant to fire damage, making epoxy an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
Especially in climates and weather conditions like that of Colorado, having flooring that can withstand extreme temperatures and fluctuations is a must.
No matter the look you’re going for in your space, epoxy flooring is as beautiful as it is durable. Epoxy coatings come in a variety of finishes: granite, metallic, marbled, and a myriad of color combinations.
Many customers choose an epoxy installation to cover up the current flooring, whether it be deteriorating or simply unattractive. Epoxy is full-coverage and aesthetically pleasing.
Applying epoxy flooring to a garage or parking space is a surefire way to reduce damage to your vehicle’s tires and any other equipment housed on its surface.
The smooth finish of an epoxy coating is added protection for cars and material additives are available including vinyl flakes, that can increase traction. This is a benefit not only for any vehicles driving on and off the surface, but also for human foot traffic as a means to reduce slips and falls.
While the length of an epoxy installment’s life varies depending on its location, wear and tear, and purpose, this flooring application is guaranteed to outlast its competitors.
With adequate maintenance (i.e., regular cleaning and care), epoxy flooring should remain in top condition for years to come. Some applications report lasting up to 20 years if installed professionally.
If you’re seeking to install new flooring in your residential or commercial space, and the pros of epoxy coatings outweigh the manageable cons, congratulations! Epoxy is an excellent choice for any durable coating need and is perfect for the basement playroom, garage, and even epoxy countertops.
Epoxy Colorado is Colorado’s number-one choice for epoxy installations. We specialize in an array of flooring coatings for:
Give us a call today to discuss the benefits of choosing epoxy in your space. Your flooring will be beautiful, installed quickly, durable, and guaranteed to last!
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