Epoxy coatings are very strong and durable when properly applied, making them the perfect options for commercial, municipal, warehouse, or industrial applications. However, they do require proper maintenance to keep them in prime condition.
Maintenance of epoxy floors is easy if you know what to do! There are some simple tips that may seem like common knowledge but often get overlooked. You can make sure your epoxy floor stays looking fresh with these eight simple tips on how to clean an epoxy floor.
Cleaning Your Epoxy Floor
The easiest way to maintain your epoxy coating is simply sweeping it regularly. A dustless broom will suffice for most surface dirt, while a standard push broom should be used for heavier dirt or spills. The best time to sweep is after the floor has dried following any cleaning.
If your floor is wet or slippery, a non-slip product should be used. A standard mop can be used with hot water and a gentle detergent (such as dish soap) to clean the surface. Be sure to wring out the mop before using it and avoid allowing the soapy water to puddle on the floor. Rinse the floor with clean water when finished.
1. Use Standard Cleaning Tools
With an epoxy floor, you should avoid using anything that may scratch the surface. While a broom and mop will work, commercial areas may want to consider other tools such as a power washer or microfiber pads. You can find these at your local hardware store in the household cleaning section. It goes without saying: do not use any type of abrasive product to clean your floor!
2. Mop or Sweep the Surface Regularly
It’s important to sweep or mop the surface regularly in order to remove any dirt or debris that may cause staining or scratches. This is especially important if you have a light-colored floor, as dirt can show up more quickly. A dustless broom is ideal for everyday sweeping, while a standard push broom can be used for heavier dirt or spills.
3. Clean Spills Immediately
If you spill something on your epoxy floor, be sure to clean it up immediately. The longer the spill sits, the more likely it is to cause a stain. Use a wet cloth and a gentle detergent (such as dish soap) to clean the area. Do not use any type of abrasive cleaner or scrub brush, as this can damage the surface of the floor.
4. Dispose of Chemicals Properly
When cleaning your epoxy floor, it’s important to avoid using any harsh chemicals. These can damage the surface of your floor and may also be harmful to your health. Be sure to read the labels of all cleaning products before using them and dispose of them properly when finished.
5. Protect Floor from Furniture and Equipment
To prevent scratches and other damage, it’s important to use furniture pads or protectors under heavy furniture and equipment. If you don’t have furniture pads, you can use a piece of cardboard or a rag. Just be sure to replace the protector or move the furniture every so often, so you don’t create a permanent dent in the floor.
6. Heavy Duty Cleaning
In commercial areas, it’s important to occasionally perform a more heavy-duty cleaning of the epoxy floor. This can be done using a power washer or a microfiber pad. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products and always test in a small area to ensure they are compatible with your floor coating.
7. Spot Clean When Necessary
Spot cleaning is also important to keep the epoxy floor looking great. Use a wet cloth or sponge with a gentle detergent (such as dish soap) and dampen the area around the spill, not directly on it. Rinse out your cloth or sponge frequently, so the soapy water doesn’t spread over a wider area. If there are still noticeable spots after spot cleaning, you can use another soft cloth soaked in clean water to help remove them.
8. Clean Up Scratches Immediately
If you notice any scratches or scuffs on your epoxy floor, be sure to buff them out immediately! This will prevent further damage and fix the issue right away. A buffer pad works best for this task, but you can also use a soft cloth and some car polish. Just be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before using any type of polish or cleaner.
Things You Should Avoid When Cleaning Epoxy Floors
- Using anything that may scratch the surface
- Anything abrasive (broom, mop, power washer, etc.)
- Harsh chemicals (read labels before using)
- Furniture or equipment without protectors
- Spot cleaning with harsh chemicals
- Leaving spills to sit for long periods of time
It’s important that you avoid harsh tools like power washers or abrasive products when cleaning your epoxy floor. Be sure to use a soft cloth and avoid any cleaners with harsh chemicals in order to protect the surface!
Epoxy is a durable and robust material, but it can still get damaged if not cared for properly. Use the top 8 tips above to clean and maintain your epoxy floor so you can enjoy a shiny surface for years to come!