Vebro and its trusted applicator partners aim to take the headache out of the process of selecting industrial flooring for facilities managers and building owners, by offering a free flooring evaluation site survey.
In short, we’ll walk the floor of your site with you and inspect any areas requiring attention, discuss your unique service criteria along with any budget limitations or considerations with the view to providing a personalised floor health report!
Choosing the right industrial flooring solution for any factory, warehouse or other heavy-duty environment is dependent on how the space will be used.
That might seem like an obvious statement, but it’s easy to fall into the trap of ‘what works for one, will work for all’ and that can lead to a whole host of flooring problems down the line.
During a site visit with Vebro, we’ll identify the slab condition, installation considerations, key service criteria and the budget available… all factors that will guide the flooring selection process, leading to a resin floor surface that is fit-for-purpose and will stand the test of time.
Slab condition
The composition of the existing slab directly influences the compatibility and performance of resin flooring. Factors such as porosity, hardness and composition dictate the adhesion capabilities of the resin system and compatibility ensures a durable bond, preventing issues such as delamination or cracking.
Beyond the slab’s composition, its age can also impact structural integrity and surface condition. Older slabs may exhibit signs of wear, deterioration or settlement, which can affect the installation and performance of resin flooring. Proper preparation and surface treatments are essential to ensure a seamless and long-lasting bond between the resin and the substrate.
In heavy-duty environments, particularly those in the automotive and aerospace industries, contaminants such as oils, grease or chemicals, are a common occurrence, and can hinder the adhesion of resin flooring systems. Thorough surface preparation combined with an oil tolerant primer such as vebro EP OT Primer can help to mitigate contaminants and achieve proper bonding, ensuring the integrity and longevity of the flooring.
In some circumstances, moisture infiltration from the substrate or surrounding environment can compromise the performance of resin flooring. Excessive moisture can lead to failed adhesion or blistering. Moisture mitigation measures, such as an epoxy DPM, may be required to address this issue and maintain the integrity of the flooring system.
Install considerations
Minimising downtime can be crucial for facilities with strict operational schedules. Resin flooring systems that offer rapid cure times and quick installation processes can help to avoid significant disruptions to operations and reduce downtime costs, while phasing installation areas can also be considered.
Phased installation allows for continued operations in sections of the facility while flooring work is completed in other areas, helping to mitigate downtime and allowing for a more efficient and manageable installation process. The existing layout of plant equipment, as well as the nature of the facility will often guide whether this is an option.
Clearing the space for flooring installation may require relocating equipment or stock, which can impact production schedules and logistics. Proper coordination with Vebro’s applicator partners is necessary to ensure minimal disruption to operations during the installation process.
Service criteria
Evaluating the operational dynamics of an industrial facility involves examining the types of machinery and equipment used, such as forklift trucks or single-wheeled reach trucks.
Calculating the loads exerted by these vehicles and analysing their distribution patterns on the floor surface allows us to understand the specific pressure points and stressors – a crucial factor in selecting a resin flooring solution that can withstand the daily wear and tear of industrial operations without succumbing to premature deterioration.
The level and type of traffic within the facility also influences the durability and wear resistance requirements of the selected resin flooring system. Heavy traffic areas may require more robust flooring solutions to withstand constant use and minimise wear.
Facilities handling chemicals or corrosive substances require resin flooring systems with suitable chemical resistance properties, so understanding the types and concentrations of chemicals present helps determine the appropriate resin formulation to ensure long-term performance and safety.
Maintenance plays a pivotal role in the longevity and performance of resin flooring, and understanding the expected cleaning protocols, the types of cleaners used, the methods employed and the frequency of cleaning activities is part and parcel of the flooring selection process.
Whether it involves routine sweeping, periodic scrubbing, or high-pressure washdowns, tailoring resin flooring system recommendations to complement the expected maintenance results in flooring solutions that not only withstand the demands of day-to-day operations but also facilitate easy upkeep, minimising downtime and maximising operational efficiency.
Assessing the potential exposure to liquids and chemicals is another critical aspect of a thorough floor health check… what types of substances are present in the facility and at what concentrations? How long are the fluids or substances usually in contact with the floor surface? What temperature are the liquids typically? Whether it’s water, oils, acids or solvents, scrutinising the chemical resistance requirements to ensure that the chosen resin flooring can withstand these environmental challenges without compromising safety or structural integrity is imperative. By considering these factors upfront, we can recommend flooring systems that offer optimal protection against corrosion or chemical degradation.
Budget available
The discussion about budget is dependent on a number of things beyond the simple question of ‘how much does resin flooring cost?’. Balancing initial outlay with ongoing maintenance costs and longevity will play a significant role in the decision-making process.
The longevity of resin industrial flooring materials directly impacts the overall lifecycle cost of the flooring system.
Considering the long-term maintenance and replacement costs helps assess the overall lifecycle cost savings of resin flooring systems compared to alternative materials. For areas where a longer-term solution with minimal maintenance, investing in heavy-duty materials with a longer lifespan can provide significant cost savings over time by reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Environmental considerations, such as sustainability and eco-friendliness, play a role in selecting resin flooring systems. Low VOC formulations and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes may incur additional costs but offer long-term environmental benefits and compliance with green building standards.
Assessing the warranty coverage provided ensures peace of mind regarding product quality and performance. Longer warranty periods and comprehensive coverage can provide added value and protection against unexpected issues, enhancing the overall return on investment.
Next steps
Having identified the condition of the substrate, any considerations for Vebro’s applicator partner to factor in during installation, the expected usage of the area and the budgetary and lifecycle requirements, the expert team at Vebro Polymers, working together with our appointed applicator partner will provide an agreed industrial flooring specification and a project rate inclusive of all surface prep, material, installation, and any aftercare required. Offering a one-stop shop for all floor, wall and coving work required across the site!
Ready for your facility’s flooring health check? Contact the Vebro team to schedule a free floor health check with Vebro Polymers!
Contact the Vebro team in Manchester, UK by dropping an email to hello@vebropolymers.com.
If you’d like to see some examples of Vebro’s resin flooring for industrial buildings in action, we often share projects on our LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X and Pinterest profiles.
