Maintenance Tips

This can embrace a whole range of activities, from damp mopping of small lightly soiled to heavy duty machine scrubbing for the removal of ground-in dirt or compacted oil and grease. To be effective, the equipment which is used should be appropriate for the size and nature of the tasks to be undertaken. When selecting the equipment, consideration must be given to the type of surface to be cleaned, especially those with a slip-resistant / textured finish.

• Mopping equipment (various types) for small relatively clean areas.
• Rotary scrubbing machines, for deep cleaning in confined or restricted access areas (used in conjunction with mopping equipment).
• Wet suction machines, which may be used with both mopping equipment and rotary machines for picking up cleaning solutions.
• Combined scrubbers / driers for use in larger open areas where, depending on the machine’s size and capacity, up to 3000m2 per hour can be cleaned.

First and foremost, your new flooring system must be permitted to fully cure before being walked on. Light foot traffic - 24 hours if an average temperature is 20°c, but 48 hours if around 8°c. Full mechanical and chemical loading (i.e.; garages and commercial zones) – this will require 7 days with the temperature averaging 20°c and 14 days with an 8°c average temperature (but always take care with heavy equipment across the new floor). Removing dust and sand is the most critical part of maintaining your epoxy floor as dust and sand build up may become abrasive and scour your loors over time.

No Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh scrubbing pads on the epoxy surface. These can scratch and dull the finish.
Non-Slip Additives: If the floor is in an area prone to moisture, consider applying a non-slip additive to improve traction and safety.

Stain Removal: For tougher stains, use a soft scrub brush and a mix of water and mild detergent. Gently scrub the stain until it lifts.
Mark Removal: For tire marks or scuffs, use a commercial epoxy cleaner or a mixture of water and a non-abrasive cleaner. Apply with a soft cloth or mop.

The extent and frequency of all routine maintenance will depend on many factors - type and level of activity within the area; the required level of hygiene or desired standard; the actual floor system to be cleaned, together with its overall size and texture; the type of soiling held on the surface.

The equipment used for the care and maintenance of your TLC Epoxy Coatings Floor should be relevant to the area involved, and should incorporate, wherever possible, mechanically or electrically driven equipment/machines. This is an integral part of all cleaning procedures. Surface dirt and loose debris are unsightly and can be very abrasive. They must be removed effectively and regularly using:

• Brooms, brushes or suction cleaners for small or difficult areas only.
• Dust control mops for light dry dust and debris and on smooth finishes only.
• Mechanical sweepers for larger areas and possible ‘ride on’ sweepers for very large floor areas / open spaces.

Treat all food stains, tyre marks etc. within 12 hours using the necessary cleaning products. Acid based chemicals may be used as a last resort, as long as they are diluted to at least 12:1 (as permanufacturer specifications and exposure for no longer than 2-3 minutes. The areas which are treated are neutralized (PH neutral cleaner) and rinsed using clean water.