Introduction
Resin flooring is quickly becoming a popular choice for a range of industries in New Zealand. With its versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal, it's not surprising that more businesses are opting for resin flooring solutions.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about resin flooring, from its benefits to ideal settings and maintenance.
What is Resin Flooring?
Resin flooring refers to a durable, seamless surface created by mixing various resin compounds, such as epoxy or polyurethane, which harden to form a robust floor.
It is known for being strong, chemical-resistant, and easy to maintain, making it suitable for a variety of commercial and industrial environments.
Types of Resin Flooring
There are several types of resin flooring available, each designed to meet different needs:
- Epoxy Resin Flooring: Epoxy floors are perhaps the most well-known type of resin flooring. They are durable, highly resistant to chemicals, and provide a sleek, glossy finish. Epoxy floors are commonly used in industrial settings, such as factories, warehouses, and garages.
- Polyurethane Resin Flooring: Polyurethane is a flexible yet tough flooring option. It offers excellent resistance to chemicals, temperature extremes, and impact. It's ideal for environments like commercial kitchens, car parks, and food production facilities, where flooring is exposed to constant wear and tear.
- Acrylic Resin Flooring: Known for its fast installation time, acrylic resin flooring is ideal for projects that require quick turnaround. It is commonly used in commercial spaces and light industrial areas.
Key Benefits of Resin Flooring
Resin flooring offers several advantages, especially for businesses that need a durable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing flooring solution.
- Durability: Resin flooring is incredibly strong and long-lasting. It can withstand heavy machinery, foot traffic, and even vehicles, making it perfect for industrial environments.
- Chemical Resistance: Resin flooring is highly resistant to chemicals, oils, and other substances, making it ideal for factories, laboratories, and commercial kitchens.
- Slip Resistance: Many resin floors can be customised with slip-resistant additives, making them a safer option in environments where spills or wet conditions are common, such as food processing plants or hospitals.
- Easy Maintenance: Resin floors are seamless, reducing the chances of dirt and bacteria build-up. This makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward and cost-effective.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a wide range of colours and finishes, resin flooring can be tailored to suit the style and branding of any business. This versatility makes it a popular choice for retail spaces, offices, and showrooms.
- Quick Installation: Resin flooring can be installed quickly, minimising downtime for businesses. Acrylic resin, in particular, is known for its fast curing time.
Ideal Settings for Resin Flooring
Resin flooring is an excellent choice for a wide range of industries, including:
- Industrial Warehouses: With its ability to handle heavy loads and resistance to spills, resin flooring is perfect for industrial environments.
- Healthcare Facilities: Resin's seamless nature makes it hygienic and easy to clean, ideal for hospitals and laboratories where cleanliness is essential.
- Commercial Kitchens: Polyurethane resin flooring is perfect for commercial kitchens, offering resistance to chemicals, impact, and thermal shock.
- Retail Spaces: The aesthetic appeal and customisation options of resin flooring make it a great choice for high-end retail spaces.
Resin Flooring vs Traditional Flooring Options
When compared to traditional flooring options like tiles, concrete, or vinyl, resin flooring has distinct advantages:
- Seamless Finish: Unlike tiles or vinyl, resin flooring offers a seamless finish, reducing the risk of cracks or damage over time.
- Customisation: Resin floors can be tailored with different colours, finishes, and even branding logos, providing a personalised touch that other flooring options can't match.
- Longevity: Resin flooring often lasts longer than traditional options, especially in harsh environments. While concrete might crack and vinyl may wear, resin floors maintain their appearance and functionality for years.
Installation Process
The installation of resin flooring involves several steps, ensuring a high-quality, durable finish:
- Surface Preparation: The existing floor must be cleaned and repaired before applying the resin. Any cracks or imperfections are filled, and the surface is often ground to create a rough texture for the resin to adhere to.
- Priming: A primer is applied to ensure the resin bonds well to the surface. This step is crucial for the longevity of the flooring.
- Resin Application: The chosen resin mix is applied evenly across the surface. This may involve multiple layers, depending on the type of resin flooring.
- Finishing Touches: Optional slip-resistant additives or decorative elements can be applied during this stage. The resin is then left to cure and harden.
Maintenance and Lifespan
One of the standout features of resin flooring is its low maintenance requirements. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water is usually sufficient to keep the floor in top condition. Unlike other flooring types, resin floors do not require waxing or polishing.
The lifespan of resin flooring depends on the type and environment but generally ranges from 10 to 20 years or more with proper care. Epoxy and polyurethane floors tend to last longer in high-traffic industrial areas, while acrylic floors, though quicker to install, may require more frequent replacements in busy settings.
Cost of Resin Flooring in New Zealand
The cost of resin flooring varies depending on factors such as the type of resin, the size of the area, and the level of customisation required. On average, businesses can expect to pay between NZD $60 and $150 per square metre.
While the initial cost may be higher than some traditional options, the long-term durability and low maintenance costs make resin flooring a cost-effective solution for many businesses.
Conclusion: Why Choose Resin Flooring?
Resin flooring provides a versatile, durable, and aesthetically appealing solution for various industries in New Zealand. Its ability to withstand heavy loads, chemical exposure, and temperature changes makes it an ideal choice for industrial and commercial spaces alike.
For businesses looking to invest in long-lasting, low-maintenance flooring that can be tailored to suit their specific needs, resin flooring is an excellent option.
If you’re considering resin flooring for your New Zealand business, Line-Marking.co.nz offers professional installation services tailored to meet the unique needs of industrial, commercial, and retail environments.
Back