Just recently had epoxy flooring done but now notice that the surface is not as shiny as it was first installed. What can be done to restore the original shine? Learn how to keep epoxy floors shiny.
Well not to worry, in this article we will go over 5 simple methods on how to keep your epoxy floors shiny. However, we must first establish what might be causing this dullness in the first place.
One of the most common reasons why an epoxy floor may lose its shine is because it has been dirtied and is in need of a good cleaning. If this is the case, all you will need to do is give it a thorough scrubbing with a mild detergent and some hot water. Be sure to rinse the floor well afterward and allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Another reason why an epoxy floor may lose its shine is simply because of normal use and wear and tear. So, let’s take a look at the below methods on how to help restore some of that lost luster.
How To Keep Epoxy Floors Shiny – 5 Easy Steps
The following are five easy steps to keeping your epoxy floors shiny:
1. Protect Epoxy Floors from Damage
The first step of the journey to properly maintain and care for epoxy floors is to protect them from any kind of damage. This means being mindful of the things you and others do around the area where your epoxy flooring is installed.
Certain chemicals and materials are harmful to epoxy and can cause it to become dull and lose its shine over time with constant exposure.
One very simple way of protecting your epoxy floor is by placing a runner or rug over the space where people tend to walk the most. This will help to avoid wear and tear on the surface. If there are any spills, be sure to clean them up immediately using the appropriate cleaning products.
For garage settings, using a floor mat at the entrance, under furniture and equipment, also by parking vehicles on top of rubber mats will also help to protect your epoxy from getting stained or dirty.
2. Clean Epoxy Floors Regularly
A fairly obvious one we know, however because of its durability and strength, epoxy flooring can often go neglected for long periods of time without a good scrubbing. Dirt, dust, and other particles can accumulate on the surface and dull the shine over time. Accumulation of these things is especially common in high-traffic areas.
It’s recommended that you clean your epoxy flooring at least once a week, if not more often depending on the level of traffic and messiness of the area. Be sure to sweep or vacuum the surface regularly to get rid of any sticky fluids and stains, before using a cleaning product specifically designed for epoxy floors.
When it comes to cleaning your epoxy floor, it’s important to use a product that is designed specifically for this type of surface. Using the wrong kind of cleaner can not only be ineffective in removing dirt and grime, but it can also be harmful to the surface.
Many solutions and cleaners include strong chemicals that can damage epoxy floors. Only water and light cleaners should be used to preserve the shine on epoxy floors.
3. Remove Tough Stains
To remove tougher stains, such as those caused by oil, paint, or chemical spills, it is best to use a commercial-grade cleaner. However, even these can sometimes be too harsh and end up damaging the surface of the epoxy. If this is the case, you can try diluting the cleaner with water until it is at a weaker strength.
Diluted ammonia is also a great, safe cleaner to remove most tough stains from epoxy floors. Be sure to test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions before using it on the main area. Epoxy flooring is not indestructible, and products such as citrus cleaners or soap-based cleaners can cause significant harm.
To remove stains from your house or garage, start by sweeping the afflicted region. Allow the solution to rest for five minutes after mixing five ounces of clear ammonia per gallon of hot water (not boiling) on the stained area. Finally, use a soft-bristled brush to remove the stain and continue brushing the affected region until the marks have vanished.
4. Apply Wax
Despite you keeping the floors clean and preventing damage to the best of your possible extent, the shine is bound to diminish over time. A great way to revive the shine and protect your epoxy from further wear is to first apply wax to make the surface slick and then buff it out.
Then following it up with a sealant will really help to keep the flooring looking good for longer periods of time. In most situations though where this light to medium traffic, just simple wax should suffice.
As an alternative to a commercial wax, you can also use a floor polish that is made specifically for buffing and shining epoxy floors. This will help to add an extra layer of protection against spills, dirt, and dust.
It’s important to note that using a polish is not necessary and should only be done every few months or so, as it can build up over time and leave a sticky residue on the surface.
5. Hire a Professional
Or you can simply ignore the above steps and simply hire a professional. Many professional flooring companies offer wax and polish services that will help to keep your floors looking great for years to come. This is a more expensive option, but it can be worth it if you don’t have the time or knowledge to properly take care of your epoxy floors yourself.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines for keeping your epoxy floors shiny. In some cases, more or less maintenance may be needed, so it’s always best to do your due diligence and read the specific instructions that came with your flooring. By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your floors looking great for years to come!
FAQ
Can you wax an epoxy floor?
Yes, indeed you can. In fact, you should as epoxy floors over time lose their shine. Applying a wax will help to not only seal the surface and keep it looking shiny and great but also help to protect it from scratches and other damage. Depending on how much traffic your epoxy floor sees, you may need to apply wax every few months or so.
What is the best cleaner for epoxy floors?
Do not use citrus or vinegar-based cleaners. These types of cleaners contain acids that can slowly eat away at the epoxy coating. Soap is also a no-go. Instead, use a floor cleaner specifically designed for epoxy floors. These cleaners are pH-balanced and will not harm the coating. You can also try a weak alkaline cleaner like ammonia. Be sure to test any cleaner in an inconspicuous area before using it on your entire floor.
How long does an epoxy floor last?
Epoxy floors are very durable and can last for many years with proper care. However, they will eventually lose their shine and luster. When this happens, you can either have the floor re-coated or apply a wax sealant to help keep it looking new. They usually have a lifespan of about 10 plus years.
Are epoxy floors worth it?
Depending on the type of look and style you are going for, epoxy floors can be a great investment. They are durable, easy to clean and maintain, and can last for many years with proper care. However, they are not the cheapest option and may not be suitable for every home.
Conclusion
Now that you know the reasons why epoxy floors lose their shine and how to revive it, you can keep your floors looking great for years to come. Just remember to clean them regularly, apply wax as needed, and hire a professional if you don’t have the time or knowledge to do it yourself. With these simple tips, your epoxy floor will be good as new in no time. Thank you for reading!
