While retail stores and homeowners might be the most familiar with epoxy coatings in a do-it-yourself capacity, there are many commercial and industrial applications for this versatile material. In fact, epoxy coatings are regularly used in some of the world’s most demanding environments, including hospitals, food processing plants, and chemical factories.
In this article, we’ll cover the fundamentals of commercial epoxy flooring before discussing ten surprising (and often highly specific) uses for this type of coating.
What is Commercial Epoxy Flooring?
Epoxy flooring is a type of resin-based floor coating. The base material is typically a two-part epoxy, which is mixed together and then applied to the surface. Once it cures, the epoxy creates a hard, durable surface that can resist high traffic, heavy weights, and many chemicals.
There are many different types of commercial epoxy coatings, each designed for specific environments and applications. For example, some epoxies are designed to resist static electricity while others can withstand very high temperatures.
10 Surprising Uses for Commercial Epoxy Coatings
- Aircraft Hangar Floors
Aircraft hangers are massive, open spaces that need to be able to withstand the weight of large airplanes while also providing a smooth, level surface for easy movement. Epoxy flooring is an ideal solution for hangar floors because it can resist staining from aviation fuels and other chemicals, and it can also be applied in a thin layer to minimize any changes in the height of the floor.
- Commercial Kitchens
Commercial kitchens are another type of environment where epoxy flooring excels. The material is slip-resistant, easy to clean, and can stand up to dropped dishes and spilled food without showing wear or tear. Many of the world’s leading restaurants have epoxy flooring in their kitchens.
- Food and Beverage Processing Plants
Like commercial kitchens, food and beverage processing plants need a durable, easy-to-clean floor that can withstand dropped objects and spills. Epoxy is often used in these environments because it meets these criteria and also has the added benefit of being resistant to bacteria and other contaminants.
- Operating Rooms
Operating rooms are one of the most demanding environments for any type of flooring. The material must be sterile, slip-resistant, and easy to clean to prevent the spread of infection. Epoxy flooring meets all of these requirements and is also frequently used in hospital corridors and waiting areas for the same reasons.
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plants
Pharmaceutical manufacturing plants have similar needs to food and beverage processing plants when it comes to flooring. The material must be durable, easy to clean, and resistant to spills and dropped objects. Epoxy is often used in these environments because it meets these criteria and is also non-porous, which helps to prevent the build-up of contaminants.
- Chemical Plants
Chemical plants need a floor that can withstand high temperatures and corrosive chemicals. Epoxy flooring is often used in these environments because it is one of the few materials that can meet both of these requirements.
- Car Dealerships
Car dealerships need a floor that is attractive, durable, and easy to clean. Epoxy flooring meets all of these requirements and is also available in a variety of colors and finishes, which makes it easy to create an attractive showroom floor.
- Retail Stores
Retail stores need a floor that is durable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean. Epoxy flooring meets all of these requirements and is also available in a variety of colors and finishes, which makes it easy to create an attractive sales floor.
- Garages
Garages need a floor that can resist stains from oil and other automotive fluids. Epoxy flooring is often used in these environments because it is one of the few materials that can meet this requirement.
- Office Buildings
Office buildings need a floor that is attractive, durable, and easy to clean. Epoxy flooring meets all of these requirements and is also available in a variety of colors and finishes, which makes it easy to create an attractive office space.
Epoxy coatings are one of the most versatile and durable materials available for commercial use. The material can be used in a wide range of environments and applications, and it provides an attractive, durable, and easy-to-clean surface that can withstand high traffic and heavy weights.
If you are looking for a material that can provide all of these benefits, then the epoxy coating is the ideal solution for your needs.
FAQ About Commercial Epoxy Coatings
- What is epoxy?
Epoxy is a type of resin that is used in many different applications. The material is created by combining two substances, a hardener and a resin. When these two substances are mixed together, they create a polymer that is extremely strong and durable.
- What are the benefits of using epoxy?
There are many benefits to using epoxy, including the fact that it is very strong and durable. Additionally, epoxy is resistant to chemicals, oil, and heat, making it an ideal material for use in many different environments. Epoxy is also easy to clean and maintain, which makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
- Where can I use epoxy?
There are many different places where you can use epoxy. Some of the most common places include garages, retail stores, office buildings, and car dealerships. Additionally, epoxy can be used in more specialized applications such as pharmaceutical manufacturing and chemical plants.
- How do I apply epoxy?
Applying epoxy is a two-part process that involves mixing the hardener and resin together. Once the two substances are mixed together, they need to be applied to the surface that you want to coat. Epoxy can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer.