Not all industrial flooring is created equal when it comes to chemical exposure. In areas where acids, solvents or oils are used daily, you need a floor that can withstand these chemicals and be safe. Epoxy flooring is one of the best options. Let’s see why.
Chemical Resistance
One of the biggest reasons epoxy flooring is good for chemical exposure areas is its chemical resistance. Epoxy coatings form a tough, non porous barrier that can withstand a wide range of chemicals including harsh acids, alkalis, solvents and oils. This barrier penetrates the concrete surface and seals it completely so chemicals can’t seep in and damage the substrate underneath.
Quick fact: Epoxy flooring can withstand chemical exposure for up to 20 years with proper maintenance, one of the longest lasting industrial flooring options.
Strength and Durability in Harsh Conditions
Industrial environments are subject to heavy foot traffic, machinery and frequent impacts. Epoxy flooring is great in these conditions because of its durability. It’s resistant to abrasions and impacts so it can withstand physical and chemical damage, where chemical spills occur daily.
Plus epoxy flooring doesn’t crack or chip easily under pressure. This means any chemicals on the surface can’t penetrate the flooring and damage the concrete underneath.
Cost to install: Depending on the size of the area and the specific chemical resistant coatings used, epoxy flooring can cost between $3 to $12 per square foot. In industrial areas that require high chemical resistance, this investment will save you thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements over time.
Easy to Maintain and Clean
One of the biggest advantages of epoxy flooring in chemical exposure areas is how easy to maintain. The non porous surface doesn’t absorb spills whether chemical, oil or water based. This makes it super easy to clean and disinfect. Simple maintenance with a broom or mop will keep the surface looking great even after exposure to harsh chemicals.
Plus epoxy flooring is stain resistant which is important for facilities that deal with oils and solvents that can leave unsightly marks on other types of industrial flooring. Its smooth surface allows for quick spill clean up so minimal downtime for cleaning.
Regulatory Compliance for Hazardous Chemical Handling
In areas where hazardous chemicals are used daily, facilities must meet specific regulations to ensure worker safety and environmental protection. Epoxy flooring helps businesses comply with these regulations by providing a barrier that limits chemical exposure. Its non porous, easy to clean surface also minimizes the risk of chemicals accumulating in hard to reach areas and reduces the risk of health hazards.
Many industries such as manufacturing, automotive and pharmaceutical use epoxy flooring to meet the strict regulations for chemical containment. By choosing epoxy flooring businesses are showing their commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
Quick fact: Facilities that install epoxy flooring can reduce chemical containment related incidents by up to 40% due to the material’s durability and non porous nature.
Epoxy Flooring in Chemical Exposure Areas
Epoxy flooring is the choice in industries where chemical exposure is a daily occurrence. Here are some common areas:
- Manufacturing Facilities: Oils, solvents and chemicals are present in manufacturing facilities. Durable floors that won’t degrade over time.
- Automotive Workshops: Oil and chemical spills are common in this industry. Epoxy flooring will keep the floor intact even with heavy machinery and frequent spills.
- Warehouses: For storage of chemicals or hazardous materials epoxy flooring provides a solid layer of protection.
- Laboratories: Laboratories working with various chemicals, acids and solutions need flooring that won’t react with substances. Epoxy is the solution.
Cost of Epoxy Flooring in Chemical Exposure Areas
While the upfront cost of epoxy flooring may be more than some other options, the long term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. Because of its durability and chemical resistance epoxy flooring requires less repairs and replacements which means long term cost savings.
Quick fact: Facilities with epoxy flooring save 20-30% on maintenance costs compared to other types of flooring.
Unlike vinyl or tile flooring which may need to be replaced entirely if damaged by chemicals, epoxy can be resurfaced or spot treated if needed which makes it even more cost effective.
Safety of Epoxy Flooring
In addition to its chemical resistance epoxy flooring has many safety benefits. In areas of chemical exposure slip resistant additives can be added to the epoxy coating. This reduces the risk of accidents from chemical spills making epoxy a safe choice for workers in industrial environments.
Plus epoxy flooring reflects light well which makes areas that might be poorly lit visible. This combination of slip resistance and visibility equals a safer working environment.
Quick fact: Slip resistant epoxy flooring can reduce slip and fall incidents in industrial facilities by up to 50%.
Epoxy Flooring and the Environment
Another advantage of epoxy flooring is its low environmental impact. Many modern epoxy formulations have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions which means less harmful chemicals are released into the environment during installation. Epoxy flooring is eco friendly compared to materials like vinyl which can release harmful chemicals over time.
Plus epoxy floors are long lasting so they contribute less to landfills. With proper maintenance epoxy flooring can last for decades so no need for frequent replacements.
When to Call a Pro for Epoxy Flooring Installation
While epoxy flooring has many benefits proper installation is key to getting the most out of it. Poorly installed epoxy floors can bubble, crack or have poor chemical resistance which reduces the life of the floor. If you want to install epoxy flooring in areas of chemical exposure you need to work with professionals who understand the job requirements.
A pro will make sure the surface is prepared, the right epoxy is chosen and the installation is done without any issues. This means the floor will perform as expected and provide long term protection.
Cost for pro installation: For a typical 1,000 sq ft industrial facility professional epoxy flooring installation costs between $8,000 to $15,000.
Epoxy Flooring for Chemical Exposure in Summary
Epoxy flooring is the top choice for industrial facilities with chemical exposure. Its chemical resistance, durability and low maintenance makes it perfect for areas where spills and wear and tear are common. While the upfront cost may be more than some other options the long term benefits and ease of maintenance makes epoxy flooring a cost effective solution.
If you want a flooring solution that’s safe, compliant and eco friendly epoxy flooring has got you covered. Work with a pro and get the protection and durability your facility needs.
