A professionally installed epoxy floor is a smart investment. It’s tough, long-lasting, and visually striking — whether it’s in your garage, basement, workshop, or commercial space. But even the most durable floor needs a little care to keep it looking its best and performing like new.
Luckily, epoxy floors from Hovan the Epoxy Floor Man are low-maintenance compared to many other surfaces. That said, there are still a few key cleaning tips and care routines you should follow to protect your investment — especially as you head into 2025 with the Lehigh Valley’s changing weather patterns, road salt use, and lifestyle habits.
This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your epoxy floor clean, safe, and shining for years to come.
Why Epoxy Floors Are So Easy to Maintain
Epoxy creates a hard, non-porous surface that resists stains, chemicals, abrasions, and moisture. That means:
- Dirt and dust don’t cling to the floor.
- Oil and fluid spills are easy to wipe up.
- Road salt and tire marks don’t soak in.
- Mold and mildew can’t penetrate.
Because of these features, epoxy floors don’t require waxing, sealing, or polishing like other surfaces might. But while they’re tough, they’re not completely indestructible — so regular maintenance still matters.
Daily or Weekly Epoxy Floor Maintenance (Depending on Use)
- Dry Sweep or Dust Mop Regularly
Use a soft broom or microfiber dust mop to remove loose dirt, sand, leaves, and debris. Grit can act like sandpaper underfoot or under tires and cause dulling over time.
For garages or commercial floors with heavy traffic, sweeping every 1–2 days is ideal. For residential basements or light-use spaces, once a week may be enough.
- Spot Clean Spills Promptly
Spilled oil, antifreeze, or paint? No problem — as long as you wipe it up quickly. While epoxy resists stains, leaving harsh chemicals or colored liquids sitting for too long can affect the finish.
Use a paper towel or rag for quick cleanups, followed by a gentle cleaner if needed.
Monthly or As-Needed Epoxy Floor Cleaning
- Mop with Mild Soap & Water
Mix a few ounces of ammonia or a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner (like Simple Green) with a gallon of warm water. Mop the floor using a microfiber or sponge mop — not a string mop, which can leave streaks or fibers behind.
Avoid citrus-based cleaners, vinegar, or anything acidic. These can dull the epoxy over time.
- Use a Foam Squeegee for a Streak-Free Finish
After mopping, use a foam squeegee to remove excess water and help the floor dry evenly. This is especially helpful in garages or commercial areas where you want to avoid puddles or slippery spots.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips For Epoxy Floors
Winter:
Keep an eye out for salt buildup. Road salt can leave a white haze and become abrasive if left too long. Lay down mats or rugs in high-traffic entry points to protect from tire tracking and snow slush.
Spring:
Perform a deep clean after the salt and grime of winter. Use a soft-bristle scrub brush or low-pressure power washer (under 1,200 PSI) with a gentle cleaner to refresh the surface.
Summer/Fall:
Regular sweeping and spot cleaning are usually sufficient but keep up with mopping to remove dust and allergens.
Avoid These Common Epoxy Floor Mistakes
Even with its durable nature, certain actions can damage an epoxy floor or reduce its lifespan:
- Don’t drag heavy furniture or equipment. Always use rubber pads or lift items instead of pushing them across the floor.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. They can break down the coating.
- Don’t use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers. They may scratch the surface.
- Skip floor wax. Epoxy is already glossy and doesn’t benefit from waxing — in fact, wax can create a slippery film.
Protective Add-Ons Will Extend The Life Of Your Epoxy Floor
To go the extra mile in maintaining your epoxy floor, consider:
- Placing floor mats under vehicles to catch drips and dirt.
- Using rubber or soft vinyl pads under heavy machinery or gym equipment.
- Incorporate non-slip additives if the floor becomes slick when wet (especially important in commercial or outdoor settings).
Epoxy floors are a high-performance solution that can last 15–20 years or more — especially when properly cared for. With just a little regular cleaning and a few protective habits, you can keep your floor looking like new long into the future.
If you live in Allentown, Bethlehem, Pennsburg or anywhere else in the Lehigh Valley and you’re ready for a floor that looks great and works hard, Hovan the Epoxy Floor Man is here to help. Call us today at: 610-966-8262 or fill out our contact form below to request a free estimate.
