Disadvantages of Epoxy Flooring

Are you thinking about installing epoxy flooring in your home or business?

While it may seem like a durable and attractive option, there are several disadvantages to consider before making the decision.

From its susceptibility to UV damage and staining to its cost and difficulty of repair, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 disadvantages of epoxy flooring.

Keep reading to find out what they are!

Strong Smell

It is a strong smell something more like ammonia which can be allergic to certain people. The smell can get pretty strong during curing.

It can cause asthma and breathing trouble and allergy for many people. You should be away from the curing spot and provide enough curing time for the entire process to get rid of the smell and harmful fumes.

But the thing is these fumes are released only during the curing process and not after curing.

Slippery when wet

One of the major disadvantages of using epoxy flooring is that it can become slippery when wet. This is because the surface of the floor becomes very smooth after applying an epoxy coating, making it difficult for people to walk on without slipping.

A slip-and-fall accident can happen anytime, especially in areas where there’s a lot of foot traffic or moisture present.

If you have children or elderly people in your home or business space, this can be a huge safety concern. You should make sure to take proper care to make sure the floor isn’t wet and take necessary actions.

The best way to avoid slipperiness on an epoxy floor is by adding texture or grit to the finish before it dries completely.

This will create more traction between the soles of shoes and the floor surface, decreasing any chances of slipping accidents.

Another option for reducing slips on epoxy floors is to use non-slip mats in high-traffic areas like entryways and kitchens.

You could also consider installing handrails along staircases if you’re concerned about falling hazards.

Weak bond

The most common problem with epoxy flooring is that it doesn’t form a strong bond with the concrete underneath. It just sits on top of the concrete which makes it more chipping and peeling. 

With high foot traffic, it is prone to wear and tear because of the weaker bond with concrete. 

No resistance to Temperature

Epoxy floors can’t withstand high temperatures or temperature fluctuations.

Though mostly they can withstand up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Most of the time when hot car tires are run over the epoxy flooring in the garage they can easily melt away sticking to the tires and peeling off.

That is why it is recommended to use polyaspartic flooring on the garage surface.

Therefore it is not recommended to use epoxy floors outdoors or in places with higher temperatures or temperature fluctuations.

Turn yellow in direct sunlight

It can yellow and degrade when exposed to direct sunlight.

This is because the UV rays from the sun can break down the chemical bonds in the epoxy resin, causing it to discolor and weaken over time.

This can be a significant issue for spaces with large windows or skylights that let in a lot of natural light.

Not only does this discoloration affect the appearance of your flooring, but it can also compromise its structural integrity.

Over time, you may notice cracks or chips forming in your epoxy coating as a result of prolonged exposure to sunlight.

To prevent this from happening, it’s important to choose an epoxy formula specifically designed for UV stability if you plan on installing it in an area with high sun exposure.

Additionally, regular maintenance such as applying a protective topcoat can help prolong the life of your epoxy flooring even further.

Bubbling

Epoxies can easily form bubbles and blisters if the coating is not done properly with professional help.

Most of the time the reason for bubble formation is the improper mixture or mixing way too higher resulting in bubbles in the mixtures.

These bubbles in turn will be formed on the coating and result in blisters on the floor. This causes poor adhesion on the floor

Longer cure times

Epoxy generally has a longer curing time. Some epoxy coating can sometimes take up to 3 to 7 days to completely cure.

If you want a faster curing time, especially for places like restaurants, cafes, and hospitals this period can be a big deciding factor.

Difficult to repair

Despite its durability, epoxy flooring is not invincible and can still suffer from damage over time. Whether it’s a crack or a chip, repairing epoxy flooring requires special attention and expertise.

Repairing epoxy flooring typically involves sanding down the damaged area, applying new resin or filler material, and then resealing the surface.

This process can be time-consuming and may require specialized equipment that most homeowners do not have on hand.

Furthermore, if the damage is extensive, repairs may not even be possible without completely replacing the affected section of flooring altogether.

This means additional costs for materials and installation labor that could add up quickly.

It’s important to note that proper maintenance can help prevent some types of damage to your epoxy flooring in the first place.

For example, placing protective mats under heavy appliances or furniture can help prevent scratches or dents from occurring.

Cleaning & Maintenance

One of the biggest challenges in cleaning epoxy floors is finding the right tools and techniques that won’t damage the surface.

Using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials could scratch or dull the finish, making it less shiny over time.

Another issue with cleaning epoxy floors is ensuring that all residue has been properly removed after mopping or scrubbing.

Improper removal of residue can lead to streaks or cloudy areas on the floor’s surface.

To combat these issues, it’s important to use gentle cleansers specifically designed for use on epoxy surfaces.

Additionally, using a soft-bristled broom or mop will help prevent scratching while effectively removing dirt and debris.

Expensive

One of the biggest disadvantages of using epoxy flooring is its cost. Compared to other types of flooring options, epoxy can be quite expensive.

The material itself is costly, and professional installation can add up to the overall cost.

However, it’s important to note that the price tag may vary depending on various factors like location, size of the area being covered, and if there are any repairs needed before installation.

Additionally, considering that epoxy floors last longer than most traditional materials such as carpet or tile makes it a more reliable investment in terms of durability.

Moreover, while initial costs might seem daunting at first glance, long-term savings can outweigh them.

When you consider all these factors together – longevity, low-maintenance requirements – an investment in epoxy flooring becomes much more reasonable.

While there’s no denying that this type of floor coating comes with an upfront expense attached to it- but given their lifespan and ease-of-care benefits- it seems reasonable justification for many people looking for durable solutions for their home or business space.

Summary

It’s important to consider all these factors before deciding whether or not to install an epoxy floor in your home or business space.

While it may seem like a great option for some applications due to its benefits, it’s crucial to analyze whether the disadvantages outweigh those advantages based on your specific needs and requirements.