Epoxy flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners for a number of reasons! They are durable, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, they improve the quality of your flooring as they become more resistant to shock and water.
However, there are still a few limitations to epoxy flooring. As a homeowner, you should understand the effects of the flooring type on you and your home.
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages worth considering before making the switch! Here’s the ultimate guide to epoxy flooring!
Advantages
1. Resistant to Damage, Stains, and Water
Epoxy flooring is a combination of resins and hardeners that makes it resistant to damage, stains, and water. Moreover, it is also resistant to cracking, peeling, and corrosion. When cured, epoxy flooring can resist moisture.
You can also choose from a variety of top coatings that can help further improve the quality of your floor. We recommend Urethane for residential flooring. This high-gloss finish can withstand gasoline and harsh acids. This topcoat is also able to resist scratches.
2. Durable and Strong
Epoxy flooring is the toughest out of all the flooring types! Its flexural strength is 3x stronger than concrete and is able to withstand heavy machinery and extreme temperatures.
3. Customizable
You can ask your flooring contractor to design your epoxy floors based on your preferences. Although this might entail an additional expense.
4. Easy to Clean
The seamless and smooth surface of epoxy floors allows for quick cleaning. It could last for years without chipping or cracking.
5. Cheap to Install
The cost per square foot of epoxy floors is relatively cost-effective compared to other types of flooring. It’s cheaper since there will be no need for painting and regular maintenance.
6. Great Safety Measure
You shouldn’t worry about slipping and accidents since epoxy floors are known to have anti-slip coatings. This is a great safety measure for children and the elderly in residential homes!
Disadvantages
1. Takes Days to Completely Dry
The curing process of epoxy floors takes about 7 days to finish. It sometimes takes longer to dry compared to other types of flooring.
A slow and longer curing process yields a very strong, more durable result. So if you’re in a hurry, make sure to choose an epoxy with a faster curing time.
2. Slippery When Wet
Its non-porous nature makes it slippery when wet. We recommend you add an anti-slip coat to prevent future accidents from happening.
3. Strong Epoxy Smell
Epoxy is still a strong chemical so it will most likely give off a strong ammonia-like smell when drying. The vapors can be dangerous to anyone exposed to them. Common side effects include inflammation in the nose, eyes, throat, and lungs.
The best solution to avoid these health hazards is to have your epoxy floor completely cured.
4. Requires Under Flooring
You need an existing floor before adding epoxy. This will be costly for those currently building their homes, but a cheaper alternative for those with existing floors.
5. Requires Special Cleaners
Cloudy discolorations can still form over time. You can avoid this by using an ammonia-water cleaner. This works best for epoxy floors, unlike citrus-based cleaners.
6. Tedious Installation and Removal Process
The installation process has to be done according to the instructions. Floor preparation is the first step. You need to remove any hint of grease, oil, and other debris. The next step is to take note of the humidity levels to install an epoxy floor. The level must be low enough. Otherwise, moisture can end up damaging your floor.
Similarly, removing epoxy floors can be as complex as the installation process. You need to hire a professional to do the job.
Bottom Line
Epoxy floors still remain a mystery for some but they are great options for those who want durable and affordable flooring. If you are planning to replace your floors or have started remodeling your house, click the “Free Quote” button below to get a free estimate. Get the assistance you need from a local flooring professional. Contact The Home Pros US now!
