Whether you’re upgrading a public garage, a commercial space, or an industrial warehouse, flooring is a crucial part of your project. Among the many options available, epoxy flooring has become a standout for its durability, appearance, and low maintenance. But what exactly is epoxy flooring, and why is it such a smart choice?
This beginner’s guide will walk you through the materials, installation process, benefits, and applications of epoxy floors—plus tips on working with professional epoxy floor contractors.
What Is Epoxy Flooring?
Epoxy flooring is a resinous floor system created by applying a thermosetting resin over a concrete substrate. When a polyepoxide resin is mixed with a hardener, a chemical reaction takes place, creating a strong, durable plastic-like coating that bonds tightly to the concrete surface.
We then finish the coating with decorative or functional layers, depending on the desired look and purpose.
Types of Epoxy Flooring
Different environments require different types of epoxy finishes. Here are a few of the most common:
- Hand Troweled Resin Rich Epoxy: Ideal for seamless and durable surfaces in commercial and residential applications.
- Epoxy Flake Floors: Add texture and color with chips of vinyl or quartz.
- Metallic Epoxy: Offers a high-gloss, marble-like look—perfect for showrooms or high-end garages.
- Anti-Static Epoxy: Used in sensitive areas like labs and electronics manufacturing.
- Graveled Epoxy: Decorative and slip-resistant, commonly used in public spaces.
- Epoxy Paint: Used when durability isn’t a concern, as paint floors usually wear out in less than a year in commercial spaces.
Where Epoxy Flooring Is Used
Everlast Epoxy’s Shop floors are recommended for commercial and industrial shop floors such as auto service centers, aircraft hangers, and industrial shops because it is durable and chemical resistant.
Everlast Epoxy’s Industrial floor is recommended in Foodservice Kitchens because it is thermal shock resistant, withstands high heat, and is easy to clean. It is also recommended in public restrooms and showers because it is hygienic, easy to clean, and can be applied on the floor and up the walls to form a “bath effect” to keep the moisture in.
The Laboratory floor is recommended in Clean room floors and laboratories because it creates a seamless and easy-to-clean floor.
Everlast Epoxy’s HealthCare floor is recommended in Health care facilities such as acute care, ambulatory care, behavioral health, medical office buildings, biotech laboratories, and pharmaceutical labs because it creates a safe, hygienic floor that does not trap in dirt and grime.
Everlast Epoxy’s Decor floor is recommended in Retail such as waiting rooms, lobbies, and showrooms because it’s a cost effective and attractive alternative to conventional terrazzo and it’s a safer and healthy alternative to luxury sheet floor. It is also recommended in Front-of-House cafeterias and dining rooms because it is east to keep lean and is resistant to wear.
Everlast Epoxy’s Shop floor is recommended in Warehouses because it is part of a cost effective way to create a long lasting and durable floor that can withstand heavy equipment and high traffic in industrial facilities.
Benefits of Epoxy Flooring
Why are more people turning to epoxy flooring? Here are the top advantages:
Durability
Epoxy is tough. It resists wear and tear, chemical spills, impacts, and abrasions.
Low Maintenance
Unlike porous materials, epoxy doesn’t stain easily and is easy to clean.
Aesthetics
From glossy finishes to custom colors and flakes, epoxy is highly customizable.
Moisture & Chemical Resistance
Great for garages and industrial environments where spills are common.
Safety Features
We can include non-slip additives for improved traction.
Longevity
When professionally installed, epoxy floors can last 10-20 years or more.
The Epoxy Floor Installation Process
Working with a professional epoxy floor company ensures the job is done right. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:
1. Concrete Preparation
The concrete surface must be clean, dry, and free of cracks. In addition, we often grind or shot-blast it for proper adhesion.
2. Priming
A primer coat helps seal the substrate and enhances adhesion.
3. Base Coat Application
The base coat is applied evenly using rollers or squeegees. Furthermore, you can add decorative elements like color flakes.
4. Topcoat Application
A durable, often UV-resistant topcoat seals the floor and provides the final finish.
Note: Humidity and temperature play a big role in epoxy curing. That’s why working with professional epoxy floor contractors is key to success.
How to Choose the Right Epoxy Floor Contractor
Hiring the right installer can make or break your project. Here are some tips:
- Check experience and certifications.
- Ask for photos of previous work.
- Read customer reviews.
- Ensure they specialize in your type of environment—residential, commercial, or industrial.
- Get a detailed quote with materials, labor, and timeline.
Looking for a local epoxy floor company? Local pros often have better knowledge of area-specific challenges like humidity or regulations.
A Smart Investment for Any Space
Whether you’re renovating your garage, opening a new store, or upgrading a warehouse, epoxy floor installation offers long-lasting performance and great aesthetics. Additionally, with countless finishes to choose from and unmatched durability, it’s a practical and stylish flooring solution.
As a trusted epoxy floor company, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. From free quotes to expert epoxy floor contractors, we make the process simple, seamless, and tailored to your needs. Have questions you want answered? Ask us today!
