Resinous Flooring
Resinous flooring is a durable, seamless, and highly versatile flooring solution that is gaining popularity across both residential and commercial sectors. Known for its strength, aesthetic appeal, and long-lasting performance, resinous flooring is used in everything from industrial spaces to healthcare facilities, schools, and even high-end homes.
But what makes resinous flooring so unique? And how do the different levels or classes of resinous flooring impact your choice?
In this guide, we will dive into what resinous flooring is, the different types available, and how each level or class differs in terms of performance, appearance, and application.
What is Resinous Flooring?
Resinous flooring is a broad category of flooring systems made from liquid resin materials that are applied to create a hard, durable surface. These systems are commonly composed of an epoxy, polyurethane, or methyl methacrylate base combined with hardeners and other additives. Once applied, the resin forms a seamless, smooth, and chemically resistant surface that is ideal for environments requiring durability and low maintenance.
What sets resinous flooring apart is its versatility. It can be customized in various ways to achieve different levels of finish, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Types of Resinous Flooring
Resinous flooring systems come in several variations, each offering different performance characteristics. The most common types are:
Epoxy Flooring: Known for its strong adhesion and resistance to wear, chemicals, and moisture, epoxy is one of the most commonly used resinous flooring systems. It’s ideal for industrial, commercial, and high-traffic areas.
Polyurethane Flooring: Offering greater flexibility and resilience than epoxy, polyurethane is often used in spaces subject to thermal cycling or heavy impact, such as warehouses, kitchens, and laboratories.
MMA (Methyl Methacrylate) Flooring: Fast-curing and resistant to extreme conditions, MMA flooring is used in specialized environments that require quick installation and durability, such as food processing plants, pharmaceutical areas, and commercial kitchens.
Different Classes or Levels of Resinous Flooring
Just like polished concrete, resinous flooring comes in various levels of finish and performance. The “class” or “level” of resinous flooring depends on the specific resin system used, the thickness of the application, and the level of customization desired. Each level offers unique features in terms of durability, appearance, and maintenance.
Here’s an overview of the main levels of resinous flooring and what each one brings to the table:
Level 1: Basic Commercial Epoxy Flooring (Matte to Low-Gloss Finish)
Appearance: At this level, the resinous flooring is typically a matte or low-gloss finish, designed to provide basic coverage and protection without much emphasis on appearance. The surface is smooth, uniform, and easy to clean but may lack the depth and shine of higher-level finishes.
Ideal For: Level 1 flooring is best suited for industrial environments, warehouses, garages, or factories where durability and functionality are the top priorities. It’s ideal for spaces that don’t require frequent cleaning or aesthetic attention but demand strength and reliability.
Durability: This type of flooring is highly resistant to chemicals, abrasions, and heavy traffic, making it suitable for areas with moderate wear and tear.
Level 2: Mid-Grade Epoxy or Polyurethane Flooring (Satin to Semi-Gloss Finish)
Appearance: A step up from the basic Level 1 finish, Level 2 resinous floors offer a satin or semi-gloss appearance that adds some shine and visual appeal without a full, high-gloss look. It also offers better resistance to stains and marks.
Ideal For: This level is ideal for mid-level commercial spaces like retail stores, schools, offices, and some foodservice environments. It strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics, offering enhanced visual appeal without sacrificing performance.
Durability: Level 2 flooring is more resistant to impacts, stains, and general wear than Level 1, making it ideal for spaces with moderate traffic and exposure to chemicals or moisture.
Level 3: High-Performance Epoxy or Polyurethane Flooring (High-Gloss Finish)
Appearance: A high-gloss finish at this level creates a reflective, sleek surface that not only looks impressive but also enhances lighting within the space. The high-gloss effect gives the floor a sophisticated, professional look that is commonly seen in high-end commercial environments.
Ideal For: Level 3 flooring is commonly found in premium commercial and industrial applications, such as medical facilities, laboratories, high-end retail spaces, and luxury kitchens. It’s also great for environments that need a higher level of cleanliness, as the smooth, shiny surface can be easily cleaned and maintained.
Durability: This level of flooring offers excellent chemical, impact, and abrasion resistance. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, machinery, and even harsh cleaning methods, making it ideal for spaces that see frequent use or where safety and sanitation are critical.
Level 4: Heavy Duty or Specialized Resinous Flooring (Customizable and Advanced Finish)
Appearance: Level 4 represents the top tier of resinous flooring systems, where customization options are often limitless. Whether you’re looking for a completely custom color, added texture, or decorative elements such as flakes or quartz aggregates, Level 4 can provide it all. This finish can be ultra-glossy, matte, or even textured for slip resistance.
Ideal For: This is the go-to choice for highly specialized environments, including pharmaceutical labs, food and beverage processing plants, clean rooms, and manufacturing facilities with strict sanitation and durability requirements. It’s also perfect for those looking for a more visually striking floor for luxury commercial or residential spaces.
Durability: At Level 4, resinous floors are engineered for maximum durability, with resistance to extreme chemicals, heavy impacts, temperature fluctuations, and other specialized conditions. This flooring system is capable of handling even the toughest industrial environments, ensuring longevity and safety.
Benefits of Resinous Flooring
Seamless and Hygienic: Resinous floors are seamless, which means no cracks or joints for dirt, dust, or bacteria to accumulate. This makes them particularly beneficial in environments that require high hygiene standards, such as hospitals, kitchens, and laboratories.
Durability: With their resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and moisture, resinous flooring is built to withstand heavy traffic, impacts, and harsh environments, ensuring that your floors last for many years.
Customization: Resinous floors can be customized to meet specific aesthetic and functional needs, whether you’re looking for a sleek glossy surface or a non-slip textured finish.
Easy Maintenance: The smooth, seamless surface makes resinous floors extremely easy to clean and maintain, reducing long-term upkeep costs.
Final Thoughts
Resinous flooring offers an exceptional combination of durability, aesthetic flexibility, and performance. By choosing the right level or class of resinous flooring, you can ensure that your space not only looks great but also performs optimally under the specific demands of your environment.
No matter the type of space you’re working with—whether it’s an industrial warehouse, a commercial kitchen, or a luxury retail store—there’s a resinous flooring solution that fits your needs.
Ready to explore resinous flooring for your next project?
Contact us today to learn more about our available options and find the perfect flooring solution for your space!