Finding your perfect workshop flooring can be a complicated matter if you’re not familiar with the various products and options out there. In this post I’d like to talk about a few options and their best applications for the different types of workshops out there. Whether your workshop is for auto mechanics, woodworking, metal fabrication, electronic manufacturing/repair or any other profession, this list will hopefully point you in the right direction.
Table of Contents
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring is a type of synthetic material that can be used to cover an existing floor. It is a durable and affordable option for many people, and it comes in a variety of colours. It’s easy to instal and can be completed by any competent DIYer.
Vinyl flooring has a few drawbacks, including the fact that it is not as easy to clean as some of the other floor types in this post. Vinyl floors will also wear down over time, so they need to be replaced every few years or so. It’s best not installing them in high traffic areas.
Vinyl flooring is cheap and easy to install but isn’t resistance to spillages such as oil, petrol or other chemicals relating to the automotive industry. This type of flooring may well best suit workshops such as woodworking or metalworking.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is good because it is inexpensive, easy to install, and looks great. It’s bad because it scratches easily and can’t be refinished. Heavy materials and machinery can quite easily damage this type of flooring so it might be best suited to smaller workshops.
Laminate flooring can be installed by yourself easily but care should be taken to avoid liquid contact. When liquid enters into the gaps it can warp the manufactured wood underneath and leave an uneven surface.
Epoxy resin flooring
Epoxy flooring is a type of flooring that is durable and long-lasting. It can be used in workshops, garages, warehouses, and even in your home. Epoxy flooring can be used for both indoor and outdoor use and is available in many different colours. You’re bound to find a style that will suit your needs.
Some of the benefits of epoxy floors are that they are easy to clean, they don’t scratch easily, they don’t break down over time like other types of flooring materials and will repel liquids such as water, paints and other chemicals. Epoxy floors also have a high slip resistance rating which makes them safe to use when there’s a lot of traffic in the area.
Another variation of this type of flooring is anti-static epoxy flooring. This flooring would be perfect for industries such as computer repair and manufacturing, photographic film and printing as it reduces the build up of electrostatic discharge which can shock and attract dust.
It is perfect for busy commercial spaces and it can be customised to suit your needs.
To summarise. Epoxy resin benefits:
- It is durable and strong, so it can withstand heavy machinery
- It has a high gloss finish that can be easily cleaned with soap and water
- It has excellent resistance to chemicals such as gasoline, oil, and paint
- The colour of the floor can be customised to fit your needs
- Epoxy flooring costs are between $3 and $12 per square foot, which is cheaper than many flooring replacement alternatives
Engineered wood flooring
Engineered wood flooring is a type of flooring that has been created for convenience and sustainability. It is made up of layers of wood, which are bonded together with the help of an adhesive. The layers are usually oriented parallel to each other in order to create a stronger and more stable surface.
The benefits of engineered wood flooring include:
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Durable
- Low maintenance
- Easy installation
- Can be installed over any surface
You may decide to use this type of flooring in your workshop when you need a slightly more appealing look. Maybe you have clients or customers visiting and your flooring needs to be durable, but pleasant at the same time.
Rubber flooring
Rubber flooring is a great idea for many businesses. It is affordable, easy to maintain and can be customised to suit your needs. Rubber flooring has many benefits that make it a great investment for your office, warehouse or workshop. You might also opt for this type of flooring in your gym as it offers a softer impact ratio compared to some of the other flooring options here. It’s a good option for self installation as it’s easy.
You might select this type of flooring in a workshop environment that doesn’t involve heavy machinery. The main benefits include:
- Durable – Rubber floors are durable, which means that they will last much longer than hardwood or other types of flooring materials.
- Easy Maintenance – Rubber floors are also easier to maintain than other types of floors because they don’t get dirty as easily and they are resistant to most chemicals and liquids.
- Customisable – Whether you want the rubber material in one colour or multiple colours, you can customise it so that is suits your brand or specific styling.
- Can be suitable for all climates, both hot and cold.
Polished concrete with floor paint
Another cost effective option for many different environments. It’s very durable and easy to install by professionals. When polished and painted you are left with a flat, smooth surface that can withstand plenty of beating, spills, and footfall.
Concrete floors can be exposed to water, oil, grease, and other liquids without staining or damaging the surface. They are also great for people with allergies as they don’t release dust particles like some other types of flooring. As it can be painted any colour you have great flexibility with design and styles.
Conclusion
Depending on your workshop environment there will likely be a couple of suitable options available for you in the above list. Some will be cheaper than others but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on quality. Talk to a professional or peer in your specific trade to see what they have installed and listen to the pros and cons for each type. Epoxy resin flooring stands out to be the best all round flooring type but will not be easy to install on wooden floor structures and will require professional installation. Likewise, concrete can be the perfect option for larger, heavy material environments but will require professional attention. Lean towards vinyl and laminate for a nicer aesthetic in areas with light materials and low footfall.
Thanks for reading. I hope this has help you think about the possibilities for your workshop flooring.