Benefits of Epoxy Flooring in Vancouver - Durability, Custom Styles

The Benefits of Epoxy Floor Coatings in Vancouver

Epoxy floor coatings have become an increasingly popular choice for residential and commercial spaces in Vancouver. Epoxy floors provide a range of benefits that make them well suited for garages, basements, warehouses, showrooms, retail stores, restaurants, and more. Here is an overview of the key advantages of epoxy flooring and why it has become such a sought-after flooring solution in Vancouver.

Durability and Longevity

Epoxy floors are highly durable, able to withstand heavy foot traffic, repeated cleaning, dropped tools or appliances, and more. The resinous coating forms a thick, protective barrier over the concrete that prevents wear and tear over many years of use. Professional grade floor coatings can last decades with proper care and maintenance.

The chemical bonding process used to apply epoxy floors makes them more resistant to cracks and damage from impact compared to bare concrete. The epoxy fills in tiny pores in the concrete to create a tight seal. This prevents spilled liquids from seeping in and causing cracks and pitting over time.

Epoxy coatings are also resistant to hot tire pickup, meaning hot rubber from tires will not bond to the floor when vehicles park on it. This durability makes epoxy ideal for garage floors, warehouses, and automotive shops.

Low Maintenance

Bare concrete requires extensive maintenance to keep it looking clean and prevent cracking and spalling from moisture exposure. Sealing concrete with an epoxy coating eliminates much of this upkeep. The non-porous surface prevents staining from oil, grease, chemicals, and other liquids. These spills can simply be wiped up without absorbing into the floor.

The seamless finish of epoxy also eliminates grout lines, chips, cracks, and other flaws that trap dirt. The floors can be easily swept and mopped as needed. Some epoxy coatings also have antimicrobial properties to inhibit bacteria growth.

Customizable Aesthetics

Epoxy coatings can transform dull gray concrete into an eye-catching floor with a glossy, smooth finish. Many color options are available, ranging from bold colors to patterns or designs. Flakes or vinyl chips can be added to create a speckled look. Logos, signs, or borders can also be incorporated into the design.

Metallic epoxy floors have a shimmering, iridescent look by adding metallic pigments. You can achieve a polished concrete look with a clear coat or a solid colored high-gloss finish. The design options are virtually endless.

Slip Resistance

The resinous material used in epoxy floors provides natural slip resistance, especially when a textured or shark grip additive is used. The floors have enough grip to prevent slips or falls even when wet. Slip-resistant additives create friction to avoid accidents.

This safety feature makes epoxy ideal for industrial settings, warehouses, commercial kitchens, restaurants, garage floors, basements, pools, and other areas where slipping could be a hazard.

Moisture Resistance

Epoxy forms a moisture barrier over concrete, preventing liquids and humidity from seeping in. This makes epoxy floors suitable for basements and garages where moisture can be an issue.

The impermeable surface prevents musty odors, mold growth, and debris stuck in concrete pores. It also stops salt erosion damage from snowy boots or uncovered roads in winter.

Enhanced Lighting

The reflective gloss coating of epoxy floors enhances lighting in any space. Light bounces off the sheen to brighten up rooms and require less overhead lighting. This also creates the illusion of a larger, more open space.

For commercial stores, the reflective surface can make retail displays pop. Metallic and flaked floors have an even more brilliant, sparkling effect.

Considerations for Epoxy Floors in Vancouver Climate

Vancouver’s wet, humid climate is an important factor when choosing epoxy floor coatings. Moisture exposure during application or throughout the year can cause epoxy floors to fail prematurely. Here are tips for best results with epoxy floors in Vancouver’s climate:

Choose a Moisture-Tolerant Formula

Specialty epoxy blends have been engineered to withstand moisture and perform better in damp environments. Look for “high solids” on the label, which indicates a low water content. Water-based epoxies are not ideal for damp climates.

Test Concrete Moisture Levels

Excess moisture in the concrete slab can prevent proper epoxy curing and lead to delamination or failure later on. Concrete should be tested to ensure acceptable moisture levels before installing epoxy coatings.

Allow Proper Curing Time

Cooler temperatures and higher humidity slow down epoxy cure times. Be sure to allow several extra days of curing before regular foot traffic or moving heavy appliances or furniture onto the floors.

Check Forecast Before Installation

Avoid applying epoxy flooring if rain or extremely humid weather is expected. Humidity can prevent proper curing and adhesion. Rain can wash away uncured epoxy.

Use Primer

A primer coat helps epoxy adhere properly to the concrete and prevents moisture from seeping up through pores. Be sure the installer applies a vapor barrier primer before the epoxy coating.

Ask About Warranty

Reputable epoxy flooring companies should offer a moisture warranty if their products fail due to moisture exposure after installation.

Epoxy Floor Costs in Vancouver

Epoxy floor coatings are pricier than some basic flooring options but provide much better durability, lower maintenance, and visual appeal. Here are some typical price ranges for epoxy floors in Vancouver:

• Basic single coat epoxy: $4.00-$8.00 per square foot installed
• High-solids or moisture-tolerant epoxy: $6.00-$10.00 per square foot installed
• Flake or metallic epoxy floors: $8.00-$12.00 per square foot installed
• Heavy-duty commercial systems with multiple coats: $10.00-$15.00 per square foot installed

Keep in mind prices can vary based on the epoxy products used, special coatings like an antimicrobial additive, the concrete condition, required surface prep, and skill level of the installation company. Reputable professionals with many years of experience typically charge higher rates.

Finding the Best Epoxy Flooring Contractors in Vancouver

Hiring a qualified epoxy flooring contractor is key to achieving beautiful, long-lasting results. Here are tips for finding the best installation company in Vancouver:

• Look for at least 5 years of experience installing epoxy floors specifically
• Ask to see examples of past epoxy flooring projects
• Choose a company that uses high-quality name brand epoxy products
• Ensure they are licensed, bonded, and insured
• Ask about moisture warranties and what is covered
• Get at least 3 detailed quotes before deciding

While DIY epoxy coating kits are available, professional installation is recommended for best results and to avoid problems like improper prep work, blistering, delamination down the road, and other flaws.

Transform Your Vancouver Property with Stunning Epoxy Floors

Epoxy floor coatings are a smart upgrade for residential garages, basements, patios, and commercial spaces in Vancouver. With proper installation from an experienced contractor, you can enjoy enhanced aesthetics, extreme durability, easy maintenance, and great value for years to come. Contact the leading epoxy flooring companies in Vancouver today to get a quote for your project.

FAQs

What is the cost for epoxy flooring in Vancouver?

Epoxy flooring costs $4 - $15 per square foot installed in Vancouver. Exact pricing depends on the products used, number of coats, concrete prep work needed, special finishes like flakes or metallic, and the contractor.

How long does epoxy flooring last in Vancouver's climate?

High quality epoxy floors can last 20-30 years in Vancouver's climate if properly installed and cared for. Proper moisture testing, priming, curing time, and a warranty from the contractor help ensure longevity.

Is epoxy flooring good for residential use?

Yes, epoxy is highly popular and recommended for residential spaces like basements, garages, laundry rooms, and patios. It is durable, moisture-resistant, and available in many decorative styles.

Can you apply epoxy over existing concrete floors?

In most cases, yes. The concrete must be thoroughly cleaned and prepped first. Any cracks, pits, stains or other flaws will likely show through the epoxy if not repaired beforehand.

Is epoxy flooring slippery when wet?

Quality epoxy coatings are formulated to have non-slip properties, even when wet. Adding textured or shark grip additives enhances traction. Proper installation also avoids potential slickness issues.