Tips and Tricks
Epoxy coatings are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners and commercial spaces alike. These coatings can make your garage or basement floor look cleaner, more professional, and more finished. However, just like any other floor, you’ll want to keep it clean. Here are some tips and tricks for cleaning and maintaining your newly coated epoxy floors.
Use a Dust Mop Regularly
The most important thing you can do to keep your epoxy floors clean is to keep them dusted. A dust mop, preferably one that is at least two feet wide, is an important tool to have on hand. Dust and dirt can damage the surface of the coating if left unattended, but they are easily removed with the dust mop. Plan to dust once a week. If you keep up with this task, then your maintenance will be even easier.
Wet Mop Occasionally
Every three to four months, use a wet mop and an epoxy cleaner to mop the floor. This will get up any grit or grime that has become stuck to the floor but is not touched by the dust mop.
To ensure you are not just moving dirt around, make sure you rinse the mop often in the cleaner. After mopping, allow the floor to air dry.
The type of wet mop is less important than the type of cleaner. However, microfiber mops do a very good job. Look for one that is made to commercial quality.
For your cleaner, look for one made for epoxy floors, or make one using a half cup of ammonia to a gallon of hot water. If you do not have ammonia, mix one-part Windex to three-parts water to make another option.
Tackle Stubborn Stains
Firstly, you always want to clean spills with a cloth immediately after they happen. Especially in garages, make sure to watch out for oil or chemical spills since these can damage your epoxy floor. However, if a stain does develop, you may need to get on your hands and knees to scrub it. Use a soft scrub pad with the water and ammonia mixture to tackle the stain without damaging the coating. Never use bleach!
Know What Not to Use on Your Epoxy Floors
As you choose cleaners and cleaning methods, make sure you don’t use certain cleaners on your epoxy floors. Citrus and vinegar-based cleaners contain acids that will destroy the gloss of your floor coating. Soap is also damaging and can leave streak marks or a film on the surface of your floor.
Preventative Maintenance
One of the easiest ways to keep your epoxy floors looking great is to prevent damage in the first place. Place doormats at every entrance to your home or garage, and encourage family members or employees to remove their shoes before walking on the floor. This will prevent dirt and debris from being tracked onto the floor.
Also, be sure to clean up any spills as soon as possible. The longer a spill sits on the epoxy coating, the harder it will be to remove.
Professional Cleaning
If you find that your epoxy floors need more than just regular maintenance, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Professionals have the equipment and expertise to clean your floors thoroughly and without causing any damage.
Repairing Chips and Scratches
Epoxy floors are tough and durable, but they can still be damaged. If you notice any chips or scratches in the coating, it is important to repair them as soon as possible. Small chips and scratches can be filled in with a clear epoxy filler, which is available at most home improvement stores.
Know What Not to Use on Your Epoxy Floors
As you choose cleaners and cleaning methods, make sure you don’t use certain cleaners on your epoxy floors. Citrus and vinegar-based cleaners contain acids that will destroy the gloss of your floor coating.
Soap is also damaging and can leave streak marks or a film on the surface of your floor.
It is not difficult to clean epoxy floors. Ease of maintenance is one of the reasons many people consider this floor cover for their homes. If you have an epoxy-coated floor,
use these tips to keep it shining for many years to come.
Are you considering an epoxy floor? They’re easy to maintain and made to last!
For a free quote for epoxy floors in the Greater Vancouver area, reach out to AZ Painting by calling (778) 231-6622 today.
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