Epoxy flooring has become an increasingly popular flooring solution for various residential and commercial spaces in Pakistan. Made from epoxy resins and hardeners, epoxy floors provide a smooth, attractive and exceptionally durable flooring option.
Epoxy flooring offers numerous benefits that make it suitable for garages, basements, kitchens, bathrooms, warehouses, factories, showrooms and more. It is available in a wide range of styles and colors to complement any interior design aesthetic.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about epoxy flooring in Pakistan, including:
- What is epoxy flooring?
- Benefits and advantages
- Cost of installation
- Types of epoxy floors
- Epoxy flooring for different spaces
- DIY installation tips
- Maintenance
- Durability
- Safety and VOCs
- LEED certification
So if you’re considering an epoxy coating for your floors, read on for an in-depth look at this modern flooring solution.
What is Epoxy Flooring?
Epoxy flooring refers to floors that are installed or coated with a two-part epoxy resin material. The epoxy is formed by mixing epoxy resin and a polyamine hardener that trigger a chemical reaction and create a tough, hardened plastic material.
Epoxy flooring creates a seamless, durable and decorative flooring surface that is highly resistant to cracks, chemicals, impacts and temperature extremes. Epoxy has strong bonding properties and can be applied as a coating on top of existing concrete or used to resurface old damaged floors.
Epoxy coatings are available in a variety of solid colors, patterns like flake systems, and metallic finishes. The cured epoxy forms a high-gloss protective layer that can stand up to heavy foot traffic.
Benefits of Epoxy Flooring
Here are some of the best benefits of epoxy flooring:
Durability
One of the key advantages of epoxy floors is extreme durability. Epoxy forms a hardened, scratch-resistant surface and can last many years with proper installation. It does not crack easily compared to concrete and can withstand heavy impacts, rolling loads and wear-and-tear. This makes epoxy coatings ideal for commercial and industrial settings.
Chemical and Stain Resistance
Properly formulated epoxy floors are resistant to oils, solvents, acids and many other chemicals. Spills can be easily cleaned without staining or compromising the epoxy. This chemical resistance also prevents musty odors and bacterial growth.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
Epoxy flooring has a smooth, non-porous surface that does not allow dirt, dust and grime to accumulate. Regular cleaning restores the floor to a like-new condition. The seamless surface also eliminates grout lines that can trap filth.
Decorative Appearance
Epoxy floors come in unlimited colors and styles like metallic, flaked, quartz and more. This allows for creative and attractive floors that complement any interior design. The high-gloss sheen also reflects light well.
Improved Safety
The non-slip surface of epoxy flooring provides excellent traction that prevents slips and falls. This is especially important in settings like garages, basements, factories and kitchens. Epoxy is naturally fire retardant as well.
Cost-Effective
Epoxy flooring provides a durable and quality flooring solution at an affordable price point compared to many other options. The ability to install it over existing floors also saves demolition costs. The long service life means lower maintenance and replacement costs as well.
Quick Installation
Preparation work is minimal and epoxy coatings can be installed relatively quickly, often within a day. This prevents extended business shutdowns or space closures.
Customizable Styles
Epoxy can be customized with color flakes, quartz, vinyl chips and other additives to match any design theme. Logos and designs can be incorporated as well using stencils or hand-painting techniques.
Improved Lighting
The reflective surface of epoxy flooring helps diffuse light in a space and creates a brighter interior. This also contributes to visual spaciousness.
Epoxy Flooring Cost in Pakistan
Epoxy flooring costs in Pakistan range between PKR 2,000 to PKR 5,000 per square foot installed. The rate depends on:
- Type of epoxy used
- Number of epoxy coats
- Additional decorative elements like flakes or quartz
- Accessibility of the space
- Surface preparation required
- Contractor rates
On average, a standard epoxy floor with two coatings costs approximately PKR 3,500 per square foot. High-end decorative systems with colored aggregates can cost over PKR 5,000 per square foot installed.
For a basic epoxy coating in a standard two-car garage of 400 square feet, total installation costs would be around PKR 1,400,000 in Pakistan.
Compared to other flooring like tile, hardwood or natural stone, epoxy is an affordable solution, often costing 25% to 50% less. It also saves on demolition and installation labor since it can be applied over existing slabs.
Epoxy Flooring Types
There are different types of epoxy flooring to suit varying performance requirements:
- High Solid Epoxy
High solid epoxies contain 100% solids like resins and hardeners. They form an exceptionally thick and durable coating, ideal for industrial settings. High solid epoxies have very low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions as well.
- Water-Based Epoxy
As the name suggests, this epoxy flooring formulation uses water instead of solvents. It has very minor odor during installation and negligible VOCs. Water-based epoxy is not as hard-wearing as solvent-based systems but is safer for indoor residential use.
- Solvent-Based Epoxy
This uses solvents to dissolve the resin components and has stronger fumes during application. However, it forms a harder cure and is more suitable for heavy-duty environments. Good ventilation is required during application.
- Epoxy-Based Terrazzo Flooring
These combine colored quartz aggregates with epoxy to produce a decorative terrazzo finish. Epoxy terrazzo has more chemical resistance compared to cement-based terrazzo flooring.
- Flake Epoxy Floors
They contain colored vinyl flakes or chips broadcast into the epoxy layer to create a speckled finish. Popular for residential garages, basements and commercial spaces.
- Self-Leveling Epoxy
Self-leveling epoxy is applied more thickly and levels out naturally to create an ultra-smooth surface. It can hide imperfections in the concrete underneath.
- Metallic Epoxy
Aluminum, brass or colored mica powders create a glistening metallic epoxy floor. This is used for decorative residential spaces or commercial showrooms with a modern aesthetic.
Epoxy Flooring for Different Spaces
Here are the types of epoxy floors suitable for various settings:
Garages
Flake floors, metallic epoxy, self-leveling or high solids epoxy work well in garages. The chemical resistance prevents gasoline and motor oil damage, while the non-slip texture provides safety.
Basements
Basements often have minor cracks and moisture exposure. Epoxy coatings seal cracks and prevent moisture seepage. Metallic epoxy, high solids or flake floors make basements more usable.
Kitchens
Epoxy makes kitchen floors highly sanitary, chemical-resistant and easy to clean. A water-based epoxy prevents strong fumes. Decorative quartz or flake floors add aesthetic appeal.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms require floors that can withstand moisture and daily wear-and-tear. Epoxy coatings create a seamless and waterproof layer that holds up for many years despite heavy use.
Commercial and Industrial Spaces
High solids or solvent-based epoxy floors are ideal for warehouses, factories, laboratories and other commercial settings. The thick and protective coating prevents chemical damage.
DIY Epoxy Flooring in Pakistan
For small residential spaces like garages or basements, epoxy flooring can be installed as a DIY project to save costs. Here are some tips:
- Select pre-packaged epoxy coating kits suitable for first-time DIY application. They contain instructions.
- The floor surface must be cleaned thoroughly and prepared to create a profile for the epoxy to bond properly.
- Apply masking tape around the edges to prevent epoxy dripping. Mix the epoxy components according to the product directions.
- Use a squeegee to spread the epoxy evenly over the floor and then use a roller to distribute it evenly.
- For flake floors, sprinkle colored chips over the wet coating. Apply repeat coats as necessary.
- Allow 48-72 hours for full curing before walking over the surface.
For best results, it is advisable to have epoxy floors installed professionally in Pakistan. DIY application is mainly suitable for small residential floors.
How to Maintain Epoxy Floors
Epoxy flooring is relatively easy to maintain. Here are some tips:
- Sweep or mop regularly with plain water or a mild pH-neutral detergent. Avoid harsh cleaners.
- For stains, use a specialized epoxy floor cleaner.
- Reseal floors annually using a compatible epoxy coating.
- Immediately clean chemical spills to prevent permanent damage.
- Avoid dragging sharp objects as it may scratch the surface.
With routine cleaning and scheduled resealing, epoxy floors can look pristine for over a decade. Proper maintenance also maximizes the floor’s durability and performance.
How Durable is Epoxy Flooring?
Correctly installed epoxy floors are extremely durable and long-lasting. Here are some key facts about epoxy flooring longevity:
- Epoxy floor systems have an expected service life of 15-30 years depending on usage intensity.
- Hot tire resistance prevents deterioration in garages. Epoxy resists melting up to 300°F.
- The coating does not chip, crack or peel like paints. It maintains integrity under heavy loads.
- Epoxy has excellent bond strength and adhesion to the underlying slab.
- The scratch-proof surface does not show visible wear patterns with pedestrian traffic.
- Professional resealing every few years rejuvenates the floor and prevents premature failures.
Epoxy flooring is more durable than bare concrete, tile or even terrazzo. With thicker build coats, hot tire epoxy can last 20+ years in demanding industrial environments.
Is Epoxy Flooring Safe? VOCs Explained
Epoxy flooring is considered safe for interior use provided proper formulations and application methods are followed.
Epoxy resins typically contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like solvents, amines and diluents that evaporate during installation. When present in high concentrations, VOCs can temporarily cause eye and respiratory irritation for people and pets.
However, epoxy technology has improved greatly. Many modern epoxy products are now low-VOC or even VOC-free.
Solvent-based epoxies have the highest VOCs. Water-based epoxies have extremely low emissions suitable for indoor residential use. 100% solid epoxy flooring solutions are zero-VOC.
To prevent health issues, VOC levels should be verified before purchase. Adequate ventilation should be provided during application until the epoxy floor has fully cured.
With proper selection and installation, epoxy floors are safe, durable and environmentally friendly.
LEED Certification and Epoxy Flooring
Epoxy floor coatings can qualify for LEED points, helping a building project attain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green certification in Pakistan.
Here are some ways epoxy flooring can contribute to LEED:
- Epoxy floors have low VOC emissions, improving indoor environmental air quality.
- They are durable and long-lasting, reducing replacement needs. This qualifies as construction waste management.
- Epoxy can seal an existing slab rather than using new flooring materials. This avoids demolition waste.
- Low-maintenance epoxy decreases the need for cleaning chemicals.
- Sustainable epoxy resins can be derived from bio-based materials rather than petrochemicals.
Specifiers should choose low-VOC, high-solids epoxy coatings with LEED compliance reports for maximum impact. This showcases the sustainability benefits of epoxy technology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Epoxy Floors in Pakistan
Here are answers to some common queries regarding epoxy flooring in Pakistan:
What exactly is epoxy flooring?
Epoxy flooring involves applying a protective epoxy coating on top of concrete slabs. The epoxy is a mix of resins and hardeners that form a hardened, glossy and decorative flooring surface.
What are the benefits of epoxy floors?
Major benefits include extreme durability, chemical and stain resistance, easy maintenance, decorative appearance, improved lighting and safety. Epoxy also seals cracks and costs less than many flooring options.
How much does epoxy flooring cost in Pakistan?
On average, epoxy flooring costs PKR 3,000 to PKR 5,000 per square foot installed in Pakistan. High-end systems with aggregates can cost over PKR 5,000 per square foot.
How to install epoxy flooring in Pakistan?
Preparation, crack repairs, proper mixing of epoxy components, and adequate application of coats is vital for long-term performance. It’s recommended to hire professional epoxy flooring contractors in Pakistan for installation.
What are the different types of epoxy floors?
Common options include high solid epoxy, water-based epoxy, solvent-based epoxy, self-leveling epoxy, flake floors, metallic epoxy and more. Each has specific applications.
How durable and long-lasting is epoxy flooring?
With proper installation and maintenance, epoxy floor systems can easily last 15-30 years even in heavy commercial environments. Hot tire epoxy lasts 10-20 years in garages as well.
How to choose the right epoxy flooring?
Consider the space, required performance, safety, cost and aesthetics to select the ideal epoxy flooring system for your needs. Seek contractor guidance as well.
Is epoxy flooring safe for indoor use?
Modern low-VOC and VOC-free epoxy floors are safe for indoor installation. Adequate ventilation should be maintained during application until full curing.