What is epoxy?

Epoxy is a material constructed from a liquid polymer that is transformed into a durable polymer when properly blended. Epoxy resin and hardener curing conditions can be modified to create the desired mechanical strength and property in the material. An epoxy that is polymer-based is chemical resistant to degeneration, mechanically challenging, and very adhesive. Epoxy is also resistant to heat and an excellent insulator for electrical purposes.

What are the benefits of epoxy floor coating systems?

Durability: Engineered for commercial and industrial applications. Intended for floors subject to heavy foot traffic and constant exposure to forklifts. Formulated for extreme abrasion, UV stable, temperature, wear, chemical, and impact resistance. Up to 14,500 psi (Compressive Strength)

Cleanable: Resistant to staining and can be quickly cleaned with a broom, mop, squeegee, scrub brush, or any floor scrubbing machine.

Anti-microbial: Designed to promote good health by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold, and fungi. This is achieved by creating a non-porous, seamless coated surface that prevents absorption for microbial growth.

Safety: Floor coatings can become very slippery when wet which is why companies like Midwest Slip Stop ensure that all of their coatings are installed with safety in mind. Their technicians are equipped with slip meters to ensure that proper traction levels are achieved for an organization’s needs. Since each organization is unique and has exposure to different contaminants in their work field, they have experienced floor safety directors who ensure that the best flooring system is chosen properly for each unique setting. They offer a variety of textured finishes or non-slip aggregate profiles for all of their coating systems.

Aesthetic Improvements: With a myriad of color and texture options to choose from, coatings can be light or dark, variegated or uniform.

Versatile: When properly prepped and installed a floor coating system can cover wood, concrete, VCT, tile, and most other typical industrial and commercial floors.

VOC free: Volatile Organic Compound free- CA 01350 air quality compliant. Well manufactured floor coating systems DO NOT release (VOCs) into the atmosphere resulting in strong odors during installation that can have a toxic impact on the environment.

There are so many epoxy floor contractors out there, should I trust the reviews?

Have you found yourself searching for “Epoxy floor coating contractors near me”? So many epoxy installers to choose from… can I rely on their reviews…? Honestly, you can, but you should approach these reviews with caution. Due to the rising competitiveness, choosing a reliable contractor can sometimes be challenging. Many contractors use low-grade epoxy blends or worse, they do not take the extra time to properly prep the floor. Such cutbacks save them time and money not to mention outbidding the competition. Unfortunately, the customer unknowingly is affected by such practices. Simply put, an epoxy floor that is properly installed and maintained can easily last more than 10 years. We have come across customers who had their floors installed, they looked great after the installation which led to a great review, but sadly 2-3 years down the road the epoxy started peeling up…

How to hire an epoxy floor contractor? 

Three very important things you should know before hiring an epoxy flooring company nearby…

#1 PROPER PREP WORK: Before any coating system is applied, ask the epoxy floor contractor what does their preparation consist of? We cannot stress this part enough after coming across many floor systems failing after only a few years.

Midwest Slip Stop starts every job by roughing up the surface using our precision diamond grinders which simultaneously remove any existing coatings or contaminates if present. This process ensures that the coating will properly adhere to the concrete and not peel up over time. Any cracks or chips are properly repaired with an advanced slurry formulation. Moisture tests are also conducted by our technicians onsite to determine whether a vapor barrier is necessary before application.

HEPA Filter System: Dust control is very important during the preparation of the substrate. Airborne dust particles are potentially harmful, so it is essential to have a professional-grade dust collection system to maintain air quality. HEPA-type (high efficiency particulate air) filters are the Rolls Royce when it comes to vacuums. Every single diamond grinder we own is connected to a HEPA dust extraction system during prep work.

Material: Don’t ever be afraid to ask what type of material the contractor will be using. Ask them for an SDS sheet or brochure to see if they are using a top-quality manufacturing company and follow up with them on the day of service to ensure that you are indeed getting the exact flooring system discussed at the time of the consultation. Don’t be afraid to obtain more than one quote from several epoxy floor installers for comparison. Ask them for warranties and exclusions.