Resin floor coverings are ideal for high-traffic industrial spaces because of their durability and being easy to clean. Given the time and costs of installing these resin floors, their longevity in these applications is also very important to facility managers, warehouse owners and users of the space.
In this article, the maintenance requirements for resin flooring products are discussed, including all aspects that would influence the cleaning regime, maintenance practices and strategies to extend the lifespan of a resin floor covering.
Basic maintenance
A systematic approach to maintaining resin floors is required in high-traffic industrial settings, including:
- A regimen of regular sweeping of debris to prevent accumulation that can embed or scratch the flooring over time.
- Regular maintenance using neutral or mildly alkaline cleaners.
- Clean up spills immediately, for both safety and to prevent damage to the floor.
- The level of soiling will determine whether to use a mild or heavy-duty alkaline cleaner. Specific stains and marks may require industrial-grade cleaners, ensuring thorough agitation and appropriate dwell time. The cleaning method should be tailored to the size and workforce of the area.
- Avoid cleaning agents with high concentrations of ammonia or nitric acid to prevent unwanted discolouration.
- For tackling tough lime scale, use a gentle solution of hydrochloric or acetic acid, then rinse thoroughly.
Solutions and equipment
Beyond sweeping away any loose debris, modern cleaning methods often employ scrubber machines, especially for larger spaces. These machines streamline the process, use less cleaning chemicals and replace traditional methods such as a bucket and mop, or manual wet scrubbing.
When selecting cleaning agents, it’s crucial to consider the type of contamination present. Options suitable for resin flooring include:
- Alkaline cleaning agents, whether sodium or potassium hydroxide-based.
- Tensides and hypochlorite additives.
It’s advisable to avoid cleaning agents with high concentrations of ammonia or nitric acid, as they may cause turbidity or discolouration in the flooring, albeit without damaging it.
Extending the lifespan
By implementing these practices and treatments, industrial facilities can effectively prolong the lifespan of the resin floor while preserving its aesthetic appeal:
- Taking care not to drag heavy equipment or pallets directly on the floor, which can cause scratches or damage.
- Conduct regular maintenance checks on forklift wheels to prevent floor abrasion.
- Routine cleaning using appropriate products and equipment helps to preserve the floor’s condition.
- For ongoing maintenance, the periodic application of seal coats may be applied to replenish the floor’s protective coat and its integrity over time.
- For minor scratches or chips, applying a compatible seal topcoat over the damaged area can often suffice to restore the floor’s appearance to its original state.
Resurfacing
Full resurfacing or renovating of resin flooring is recommended when extensive wear, damage or substrate issues compromise its aesthetics or performance. It’s a comprehensive process that not only addresses underlying issues but also adapts to changing needs, thereby ensuring long-term durability and functionality.
This process involves removing existing coatings down to the substrate and reapplying the flooring system to restore its integrity and appearance.
Renovating a resin floor will interrupt operations within the facility, as the floor will not be trafficable until the process is complete. This disruption can be costly to a business, therefore implementing a robust, preventative maintenance regime with appropriate equipment and cleaning agents is a key strategy to creating floors that last.
Top tips:
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Prioritising good housekeeping practices.
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Regular cleaning with appropriate floor cleaners.
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Utilise suitable equipment for the area.
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Conducting annual maintenance inspections.
Full thanks and acknowledgement to http://zaf.sika.com/ for the information in this article.