Epoxy flooring has become a popular choice in the automotive industry, and for good reason. Whether it’s an autobody repair shop, service centre, showroom, or manufacturing facility, epoxy flooring offers a range of benefits that make it ideal for these environments. Let’s dive into why epoxy flooring is so popular and showcase a project at the Porsche Centre in Umhlanga.
Why Choose Epoxy Flooring for Automotive Spaces?
Epoxy flooring is known for its durability, making it perfect for the demanding conditions found in automotive settings. Here are some reasons why it’s a top contender:
- Durability: Epoxy flooring can handle heavy machinery, constant foot traffic, and the weight of vehicles without cracking or deteriorating.
- Chemical Resistance: It’s resistant to automotive fluids like oils, fuels, and cleaning agents, which means it lasts longer and is easier to maintain.
- Safety: Epoxy floors can be made slip-resistant in areas that need it, reducing the risk of accidents in busy workshops and showrooms.
- Ease of Maintenance: The non-porous surface of epoxy flooring makes it easy to clean and prevents staining from oils, fuels and other automotive fluids.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Epoxy flooring is available in various colours and finishes, enhancing the visual appeal of showrooms and garages.
Project Showcase: Porsche Centre Umhlanga’s Basement Flooring
Porsche Umhlanga needed a flooring solution for their basement to eliminate dust generated by concrete laitance and to redesign the parking bay areas for a better overall appearance. After a site inspection, Solidkote Robust, a solvent-free, high-build epoxy flooring system, was recommended. This seamless flooring solution provides excellent abrasion resistance and is designed for ease of maintenance.
Due to significant dusting on the concrete surface, a double primer system was implemented, effectively sealing the concrete substrate before application of the Solidkote Robust finish. Covering an area of over 1900 square metres, the flooring was completed with demarcation lines and a non-slip chevron pattern at the entrance to the basement parking area.
This transformation has had a significant positive impact on Porsche, allowing for the storage of new vehicles without the risk of dust accumulation. The area is now easy to maintain, ensuring that the Porsche experience extends seamlessly to the basement for their customers.
Important Considerations for Epoxy Flooring Installation
To achieve a flawless finish with epoxy flooring systems, it’s crucial that your concrete substrate is level and in near-perfect condition. Any filling of blowholes, voids, and surface levelling can be achieved using appropriate products within the Technical Finishes Construction Range. For the best results, it’s essential to use an approved applicator for the installation. Technical Finishes works with approved applicators and offers a back-to-back warranty with these clients. Ensuring the application is done according to the specification is vital for optimal results.
Epoxy flooring is a versatile and reliable solution for the automotive industry, offering durability, safety, and ease of maintenance. Whether you’re managing a repair shop, showroom, or manufacturing facility, epoxy flooring can meet your needs and enhance your workspace.
