Selecting a slip resistant flooring system for a facility is not a decision to take lightly. The right flooring enhances workplace safety, reduces liability, and stands up to the heavy wear of daily operations. Maintenance professionals must weigh several key factors to ensure they invest in a floor that performs under the specific demands of their environment. After all, time, money, and effort go into each flooring installation — and it should provide long-term safety and durability.
Below are important questions to consider when evaluating non-slip flooring systems:
1. What is the existing floor surface?
Start by identifying the current surface in your facility. Common substrates in food and beverage plants, for example, include urethane cement, epoxy flooring systems, and metal plates. The existing surface will determine which flooring system is compatible. For instance, if the area currently uses an epoxy system, applying a new epoxy sealer may be the most effective upgrade. Matching system to substrate ensures proper bonding and long-term performance.
2. Will the area experience high-temperature shocks?
Temperature fluctuations are common in industrial settings. Hot grease spills, steam cleaning, and frequent washdowns can damage floors not designed for thermal stress. If your operations involve thermal shock or thermal cycling, choose materials like urethane cement that are formulated to handle these conditions without cracking or delaminating.
3. How easy is the system to apply?
Some flooring systems require skilled installation, while others are more user-friendly. Consider your team’s capabilities. If your in-house crew will be applying the floor, look for a system with straightforward application steps and minimal downtime. A simpler installation can save money and reduce the need for outside contractors.
4. What environmental factors could affect the floor?
Think about more than just foot traffic. Will the floor be exposed to strong odors, moisture, or airborne particles? Some materials are more odor-resistant or better suited for high-humidity conditions. If your product is sensitive to contamination, choose a low-VOC flooring system that doesn’t off-gas harmful smells or compounds.
5. What chemicals or byproducts will the floor face?
Harsh conditions call for a chemically resistant solution. If your flooring area is exposed to acids, caustics, sugars, animal fats, blood, hot oils, or cleaning agents, make sure the material can handle it. Many industrial-grade epoxy and urethane systems are designed for this kind of exposure, but not all are equal. Always consult the product’s chemical resistance chart before making a selection.
Final Advice
Choose a slip resistant floor coating that’s built for the worst-case scenario your facility might encounter. The most reliable flooring systems combine chemical resistance, thermal stability, anti-slip texture, and long-term durability. When in doubt, work with a knowledgeable product specialist who understands industrial environments. Their insight can help you avoid costly mistakes and select the best solution for your maintenance plan.
Give us a call at 888-809-2365 if you have any questions about slip resistant floor coatings or any other maintenance needs. And don’t forget to check out our line sheet to see all we have to offer!
