Creating Comprehensive Workspaces: Why Office Furniture Companies Should Offer Epoxy Flooring

Introduction 

As office furniture companies seek ways to expand their services and provide more value to their clients, one innovative solution gaining traction is offering epoxy flooring services. This addition can transform office furniture retailers into comprehensive workspace solution providers, enhancing client relationships through providing efficient, long-lasting and practical office flooring.  

What is Epoxy Flooring? How does it work? 

Epoxy flooring is a fast-curing, hard-wearing and stable surface added to existing flooring bases. It is a 2-part mixture of resin and hardener that chemically reacts when combined, bonding the base to the substrate, and setting as a hard plastic when mixed. The most common epoxy resin used in flooring applications is derived from bisphenol A (BPA). Polymerisation occurs when the components are mixed, forming covalent bonds between the epoxy resin molecules and the curing agent molecules, which transforms into a rigid plastic material.  

Epoxy flooring can be installed over existing industrial and commercial flooring, including tile, concrete or wood. It can correct faults and protect uncoated floors from any further damage, making it a valuable addition to any office space. 

The Installation Process 

1. Surface Preparation 

   Cleaning, etching and sometimes using mechanical surface preparation equipment to create a rough surface for better adhesion. 

2. Applying the Primer 

   A layer is applied to the prepared surface, improving adhesion and ensuring a strong bond between the epoxy coating and the concrete substrate. 

3. Applying the Epoxy 

   According to manufacturer specifications, the mix is formulated and applied to the primed surface, which forms the base layer of the epoxy flooring system.  

4. Applying the Topcoat 

   After the base layer has cured, a topcoat is applied, which serves as a protective layer, providing additional chemical resistance, durability and aesthetic appeal. 

5. Curing Process 

   Depending on temperature and humidity, the chemical reaction takes a certain amount of time, during which epoxy resin molecules link together to form long-chain structures, creating a strong and cohesive material.  

6. Finishing Touches 

   Additional finishing touches may be applied, including slip-resistant additives for safety or decorative flakes to enhance visual appeal.  

What does Epoxy have to offer? 

Durability and Longevity: Epoxy flooring is resistant to stains, chemicals and wear. The coatings create a dense, impermeable surface that repels liquids and prevents them from penetrating the underlying concrete. Whilst chemicals like acids, alkalis and solvents destroy other surfaces, epoxy flooring is resistant to these, making it an attractive and sensible choice. 

Aesthetics and Customisation: A wide range of colours and finishes are available with epoxy flooring, allowing for creativity and customisation. Pigments can be added to the resin before application, meaning block colour or decorative patterns can be tailored to complement furniture selections.  

Easy Maintenance: Epoxy flooring is smooth and non-porous, making it easy to clean and maintain. This ultimately reduces time and costs associated with regular upkeep. Therefore, it maintains a professional and clean office appearance, sealing away dusts and other particles that might otherwise be circulating and creating extra cleaning duties.  

Improved Safety: Slip-resistant additives can be incorporated into the topcoat during the installation process, which creates a textured surface, reducing risk by improving traction. Anti-static flooring solutions are also available for technical environments.  

Cost-Effectiveness: The initial investment may seem steep, but the cost per square metre is moderate compared to other types of flooring. Of course, the cost will depend on floor size, thickness of resin and any special additives. Long-term savings are significant, as epoxy flooring lasts 10-20 years before needing replacement and requires little to no maintenance until that point.  

An Eco-Friendly Option: Epoxy is environmentally friendly and mostly low-VOC. The materials used in the installation process are free from harmful substances, and the manufacturing process is minimal, only requiring nominal installation equipment. Unlike vinyl composite tile, epoxy flooring doesn’t go to landfill.  

Seamless Integration with Furniture Services: Offering epoxy flooring can lead to more comprehensive office designs. It presents potential for package deals and increased customer loyalty, which gives office furniture companies the opportunity to provide complete workspace solutions.  

Takeaways 

Epoxy flooring presents a significant opportunity for office furniture companies to expand their services and enhance their offerings. The global epoxy flooring market is expected to reach around $1 billion in 2029, a huge increase from $566 million in 2022. It’s CAGR between 2023 and 2029 is forecast as 8.6%, making it a sensible investment as epoxy flooring becomes increasingly popular. By providing this durable, aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance flooring option, office furniture retailers can become the providers of comprehensive workplace solutions. Consequently, this adds value for clients, opens up new revenue streams and strengthens customer relationships. As the demand for efficient and attractive office spaces continues to grow, incorporating epoxy flooring services could be the key to staying competitive in the evolving office furniture market.