Kitchens are generally well used spaces and therefore so are their floors, especially in a commercial setting. They’ll come into contact with all sorts of substances, more than likely need to take the load of heavy equipment and have heavy traffic going back and forth over them.

They need to be extremely durable, long lasting and super resistant. If you don’t choose the right commercial kitchen flooring type then will suffer the consequences in the future; from cracking and chipping to flaking and much more. Your commercial kitchen flooring needs to be right for your operations from the start, even if it is more costly initially; it’s better to invest upfront than have the inconvenience and added cost of replacing your commercial kitchen flooring down the track.

If you’re unsure about which flooring system is best for your commercial kitchen flooring then read further, you may find the answer you’re looking for.

What is Hycrete polyurethane cement?

Hycrete polyurethane cement is a unique polyurethane cement product that is applied as the top layer on concrete floors where challenging service conditions are standard. It’s recommended for use where exposure to high temperatures occurs regularly, as well as where maximum resistance to different types of acids (including organic acid) is required. It’s extremely resistance to food acid like phosphoric acid, as well as sanitising chemicals such as peroxyacetic acid solutions.

The Hycrete system is based on a solventless polyurethane and a cementitious quartz filler blend. The commercial flooring product is usually applied as a broadcast topping complete with a range of anti-slip finishes and can then be sealed. But it can also be applied as a single layer, smooth seamless self-levelling topping.

Why is it the most suitable commercial kitchen flooring?

Durability

Hycrete polyurethane cement is heavy duty, durable, abrasion and impact resistant. Need we say more. The combination of specialist resins and high-quality blended fillers guarantees strength,

durability and longevity; it has the strength to outlast the busiest commercial kitchen. Heavy equipment won’t make a dent and clumsy chefs won’t be a problem for this Hycrete system.

Chemically resistant

It’s chemically resistant to acids, caustics, fats and cleaning solutions which is exactly what it will come into regular contact with in a commercial kitchen setting. If your flooring surface is not designed to withstand these types of substances then it will not last.

Thermal shock resistance

Commercial kitchen floors are subject to extreme thermal variations and therefore require a specifically designed flooring system. Hycrete polyurethane cement can withstand aggressive conditions and is very resistant to high temperatures and extreme thermal shock conditions such as regular discharges of boiling water and steam which are regular occurrences in a commercial kitchen.

Slip resistance

A safe working environment is critical to a successful operation. Having a heavily slip resistant commercial kitchen flooring system like the Hycrete system is imperative to meeting safety standards and ensuring the safety of those working in the space. Minimising or eliminating slips, trips and falls requires a well-designed commercial kitchen flooring system to ensure your staffs safety on a daily basis.

Odourless application

Hycrete systems have successfully passed Green Building Council of Australia tests for low VOC. The flooring system is solvent free and won’t negatively affect food or cause issues in public ventilation; it has minimal odour.

Hygienic and safe surface finish

Floor finishes need to be clean and serviceable, especially in a commercial kitchen setting. Strict food safety requirements ensure that floors don’t harbour potentially dangerous bacteria; it is of paramount importance in many industries including those that include commercial kitchens.

The Hycrete system contains the world leading antimicrobial Ultra-Fresh technology that has been conclusively proven to provide effective resistance to bacteria, fungi, mould and mildew. The Hycrete system is certified by HACCP Australia as a suitable floor surfacing material for food and beverage facilities that operate in accordance with HACCP based programs. The Hycrete system is also accredited under the Australian Paint Approval Scheme.

Fast installation: Can be applied to 7-day old concrete

Hycrete polyurethane cement can be installed quickly with little fuss, ensuring that your operations aren’t stopped for a long period of time. If your commercial kitchen is not operating then your bottom line will be affected. The Hycrete system is moisture tolerant and can be applied to a slightly damp surface and is also available with a chemical accelerator for fast cure time even at low temperatures.

Versatility

Hycrete polyurethane cement is available in a range of colours for those that consider aesthetics just as important as functionality. It is a visually versatile flooring system that will suit all tastes.

If you hadn’t considered a polyurethane floor for your commercial kitchen flooring then you may need to reconsider. It is fast becoming the flooring system of choice for commercial kitchens around the globe.

If you’re looking for the best in the business then look no further. Sydney Innovative Floor Tech will ensure that you get the most suited flooring system for your space, whether it be a commercial kitchen or any other space. Our team of experts will work closely with you to ensure that they understand all of your needs and provide a solution that meets your requirements.

Get in touch for your free consultation today.

Why you should use Epoxy for your garage floor coating

Garage floors are one of the most utilised surfaces in any space, either at home or at the office. Garage floors need to be able to take a beating. They get trodden on constantly, driven on endlessly, stored on continually and leaked on repeatedly, meaning they need to be functional and safe for those walking on them.

Garage floors need to be hardy so they can withstand all the contact that they’ll most likely have to endure on a daily basis. The last thing you need is a garage floor that cracks, chips or gets worn down easily. Not only is this inconvenient but it may be a safety hazard as well as affect productivity within a work space.

Not only do garage floors need to be tough, functional and safe, they also need to look good. A lot of the time, garages are front and centre to properties, and are the first thing people see when entering that property, so they need to look the part too.

You’ve most likely looked at so many options and struggled to decide which garage floor coating is best for your space. Well, there’s good news. There is a floor coating system that will meet all of your flooring needs, it’s epoxy.

What is epoxy flooring?

Epoxy is a synthetic material that is extremely durable, sturdy and versatile. Epoxy “systems” use a blend of resins and hardeners, that when mixed, chemically react to form a hard and durable plastic material. Epoxy bonds well to any base layer, including old concrete, resulting in a strong, resistant and hard-wearing surface. Epoxy flooring is ideal for industrial and commercial settings, as well as residential spaces.

So, why choose a garage floor epoxy system? Here’s why:

1. Resistance

Epoxy is resistant to just about everything like oil, gasoline, bleach, transmission fluid, cleansers and more. This is why epoxy floor systems are so popular in garages and within the automotive industry. Epoxy floor coating can bear chemical spills and cleaners without any negative effects on the coating, and are heat and water-resistant as well.

• Aesthetic versatility

Epoxy comes in a variety of colours and patterns, and once applied gives an elegant shine to a floor. Traditional or more vibrant designs can be created; colour flake chips in a variety of colours add texture to an epoxy floor, giving the space a unique feel. Branding can also be added to a commercial space as a form of advertising; logos, photos or writing can be embedded into your garage floor.

• Durability

Well known for their durability, epoxy floor coatings have a longer lifespan than most other floor types. Concrete is the only material that lasts longer, however concrete needs to be properly sealed and maintained. Epoxy floor coatings cover concrete floors anyways and make them exceptionally durable.

• Safety

It’s abrasion, chemical, heat, slip, impact and static resistant making it one of the most versatile and practical materials on the market. Whatever your need is, there’s a type of epoxy for it.

Another lesser known safety advantage is that it enhances visibility inside the garage by reflecting light off the floor.

• Endurance

Epoxy coating lasts longer than most types of flooring. When installed properly, it can last for several decades without cracking or peeling. It’s durability and long lifespan make it common in commercial and industrial spaces.

• Easy to maintain

This smooth even surface is also very easy to clean and maintain. Not much sticks to epoxy flooring, so cleaning up a mess is fairly easy.

• Protective

Epoxy flooring acts as a protective layer, protecting the underlying concrete from moisture, stains, grease and cracks. In the long run, this can save you a great deal on cleaning and maintenance costs, by eliminating the need to regularly clean carpet or grout. It’s also very reasonably priced for the length and level of protection that it offers over its lifespan.

• Saves time

Epoxy is hugely popular as a garage floor coating because it has a shorter curing and drying time when compared to other floor coatings. Your garage space can be used shortly after installation which means less down time. Instead of a urethane coating, go for an epoxy floor coating to save you some time.

• Prevents concrete dusting

Chalking and powdering of cement floors is a common occurrence in regularly used spaces. An epoxy floor coating will prevent concrete dusting, keeping your garage floor looking great.

Not all that glitters is gold. There are a few downsides to epoxy floor coating systems that you should consider before making a decision, namely:

Preparation

Getting the existing floor ready for applying epoxy can be tedious; a large amount of effort goes into it to. The concrete floor has to be clean and free of any pollutants like grease, oil or solvents before the epoxy floor coating is applied. If applied onto concrete, cracks will need to be filled as well.

The good news is that if you engage a professional floor coating provider, they’ll do all of the preparation for you.

Fumes

Wet epoxy has strong fumes. Darker shades of epoxy have more hardeners than the lighter shades; they have a tendency of having an ammonia smell after applying.

Moisture

Epoxy doesn’t breathe once it cures, meaning that any moisture trapped below the surface can be a problem as it evaporates. It may lead to the need for repair or refinishing down the track, as bubbling or buckling in the flooring material may occur in some cases.

Now that you know the pros and cons of garage floor epoxy systems, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision. If you’re looking for Sydney epoxy flooring experts, get in touch with Sydney Innovative Floor Tech today. We provide the highest quality epoxy floors at the best rates.

Our team of experts can do it all, we will undertake the design, surface preparation and installation of an epoxy floor within your garage.

We have a range of solid colours, flake systems and marble effects to choose from. We can also embed logos, photos or writing into your garage floor, as well as install both graffiti walls and floors.

For more info visit: www.innovativefloor.com.au today.

Why line marking is so important in a warehouse

Whether you’re a producer or distributor of goods, you’ll be aware of how important it is to effectively manage logistical processes which includes the storage and distribution of those goods. If a warehouse is run efficiently and effectively this can have a positive impact not only on your logistics cycle but on your bottom line as well.

What is line marking?

Line marking is a form of visual communication within a space. It is a pretty simple yet effective technique that uses lines to communicate with those that use the space. Line markings can be used to segregate a space, to improve navigation, ensure a space is safe and improve accessibility.

It can outline walkways, drive paths for equipment, specific storage areas and much more.

So, if you’re a warehouse owner or manager, you should be utilising this simple technique to make your warehouse a safer, more efficient space.

What are the benefits of line marking?

Warehouses are often busy spaces; a space filled with lots of goods, people that need to access those goods, as well as machinery and other ad hoc items can mean disaster if not managed properly. People need to get from point A to point B to access goods or accomplish a task, and they need to know the easiest, quickest and safest way to get there.

Safety

The health and safety of your employees should be at the top of your list. A warehouse environment can provide all sorts of obstacles and risks, however if it’s managed properly, it can be a safe and thriving setting. Line marking is always visible and is therefore a constant way of visually communicating with individuals that are using the space. It can alert employees of high-risk areas, direct them down certain pathways and inform them of designated zones. This allows employees to be constantly aware of the risks and therefore how they should behave within that area.

Less incidents

Taking safety into consideration directly affects the number of incidents that occur in a space. Accidents are unavoidable, they are bound to happen. However, having a safe, well-marked space will reduce the number of incidents that occur. Providing a space where employees feel comfortable and safe is crucial to a happy working environment, if your employees feel like their lives are at risk on a daily basis, this could negatively affect their mental health; they are bound to leave the organisation to find employment elsewhere.

Incidents not only affect staff, they also have a negative effect on the business, loss of products or damage to property can also be costly.

Utilisation of space

Line marking is the easiest way to keep a space neat and tidy and ensures that the space is utilised correctly. Having a messy underutilised space not only causes frustration, it doesn’t fully maximise the use of the space. What does this mean for you? A less efficient and less profitable space. There’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to find what you’re looking for, so a messy warehouse space can demotivate staff. It can also cause all sorts of problems in the OH&S space; a messy space means more obstacles and poorer hygiene increasing risks for staff.

You also don’t have the chance to assess your space and determine if it could be utilised better. If items are stored neatly and correctly, it will give you the chance to review your storage system, and look for improvement opportunities; the more you can store, the more you can sell.

Increased efficiency

Line marking has a direct affect on efficiency; it improves it drastically. An increase in productivity is beneficial to everyone in the organisation, not only does it make the organisation more profitable, but it increases staff morale. If staff feel productive, they are more likely to be engaged and loyal to their employer.   

Bottom line

Improved productivity, means a better bottom line, it’s as simple as that. Increasing efficiency means increasing output, and increasing output means increasing profits. Line markings make a space much more organised and are therefore a crucial part of an efficient space. A smooth flow within a warehouse means ease of use for all of those using the space.

Line marking plays a crucial role in making your warehouse efficient and safe. So, if you’re considering it for your space, here are some tips to help you with your warehouse line marking:

• Plan ahead: Ensure that you do a full assessment of the space and determine what is required; planning is crucial here.
• Keep it simple: Don’t overcomplicate your line markings. Remember that it’s a way of visually communicating with your employees, so you don’t want to confuse them.
• Test the practicability of your plan: Before marking the facility floor, it’s a good idea to do a test of the planned markings. This will determine if the line markings will actually improve productivity.
• Is temporary or permanent line marking required: If you have an evolving space, then consider a temporary solution. However, if you initially do permanent line marking, and need it to be changed in the future, line marking removal is also an option.
• Prepare the space: Ensure that the space is organised and prepared for when the line marking occurs.
• Use a professional service: If you want line markings that last under a lot of foot traffic, then using a professional service is the way to go. They will use high quality, durable materials that last. Redoing the floors time and time again interrupts operations.
• Use the correct colours: Similar to a traffic light system, people respond to different colours. Red means danger and so on.

Line marking can make or break a space, and is well worth the initial investment. It’s hugely important to making your warehouse an employee friendly space, decreasing risks and increasing productivity.

For expert line marking services, get in touch with Sydney Innovative Floor Tech today. We have extensive experience in the assessment, planning and execution of line markings, ensuring that you get the most out of your space. Our team can provide guidance and advice in regards to best practice and will ensure that you’re getting the most out of your space. Contact us to discuss your line marking plans today on 0434 359 588 or visit: www.innovativefloor.com.au to find out more.

Why you should use Epoxy for your garage floor coating

 

Garage floors are one of the most utilised surfaces in any space, either at home or at the office. Garage floors need to be able to take a beating. They get trodden on constantly, driven on endlessly, stored on continually and leaked on repeatedly, meaning they need to be functional and safe for those walking on them.

Garage floors need to be hardy so they can withstand all the contact that they’ll most likely have to endure on a daily basis. The last thing you need is a garage floor that cracks, chips or gets worn down easily. Not only is this inconvenient but it may be a safety hazard as well as affect productivity within a work space.

Not only do garage floors need to be tough, functional and safe, they also need to look good. A lot of the time, garages are front and center to properties, and are the first thing people see when entering that property, so they need to look the part too.

You’ve most likely looked at so many options and struggled to decide which garage floor coating is best for your space. Well, there’s good news. There is a floor coating system that will meet all of your flooring needs, it’s epoxy.

 

What is epoxy flooring?

Epoxy is a synthetic material that is extremely durable, sturdy and versatile. Epoxy “systems” use a blend of resins and hardeners, that when mixed, chemically react to form a hard and durable plastic material. Epoxy bonds well to any base layer, including old concrete, resulting in a strong, resistant and hard-wearing surface. Epoxy flooring is ideal for industrial and commercial settings, as well as residential spaces.

So, why choose a garage floor epoxy system? Here’s why:

 

1. Resistance

Epoxy is resistant to just about everything like oil, gasoline, bleach, transmission fluid, cleansers and more. This is why epoxy floor systems are so popular in garages and within the automotive industry. Epoxy floor coating can bear chemical spills and cleaners without any negative effects on the coating, and are heat and water-resistant as well.

2. Aesthetic versatility

 

Epoxy comes in a variety of colours and patterns, and once applied gives an elegant shine to a floor. Traditional or more vibrant designs can be created; colour flake chips in a variety of colours add texture to an epoxy floor, giving the space a unique feel. Branding can also be added to a commercial space as a form of advertising; logos, photos or writing can be embedded into your garage floor.

3. Durability

 

Well known for their durability, epoxy floor coatings have a longer lifespan than most other floor types. Concrete is the only material that lasts longer, however concrete needs to be properly sealed and maintained. Epoxy floor coatings cover concrete floors anyways and make them exceptionally durable.

4. Safety

 

It’s abrasion, chemical, heat, slip, impact and static resistant making it one of the most versatile and practical materials on the market. Whatever your need is, there’s a type of epoxy for it.

Another lesser known safety advantage is that it enhances visibility inside the garage by reflecting light off the floor.

5. Endurance

Epoxy coating lasts longer than most types of flooring. When installed properly, it can last for several decades without cracking or peeling. It’s durability and long lifespan make it common in commercial and industrial spaces.

6. Easy to maintain

 

This smooth even surface is also very easy to clean and maintain. Not much sticks to epoxy flooring, so cleaning up a mess is fairly easy.

7. Protective

Epoxy flooring acts as a protective layer, protecting the underlying concrete from moisture, stains, grease and cracks. In the long run, this can save you a great deal on cleaning and maintenance costs, by eliminating the need to regularly clean carpet or grout. It’s also very reasonably priced for the length and level of protection that it offers over its lifespan.

8. Saves time

 

Epoxy is hugely popular as a garage floor coating because it has a shorter curing and drying time when compared to other floor coatings. Your garage space can be used shortly after installation which means less down time. Instead of a urethane coating, go for an epoxy floor coating to save you some time.

9. Prevents concrete dusting

 

Chalking and powdering of cement floors is a common occurrence in regularly used spaces. An epoxy floor coating will prevent concrete dusting, keeping your garage floor looking great.

Not all that glitters is gold. There are a few downsides to epoxy floor coating systems that you should consider before making a decision, namely:

Preparation

 

Getting the existing floor ready for applying epoxy can be tedious; a large amount of effort goes into it to. The concrete floor has to be clean and free of any pollutants like grease, oil or solvents before the epoxy floor coating is applied. If applied onto concrete, cracks will need to be filled as well.

The good news is that if you engage a professional floor coating provider, they’ll do all of the preparation for you.

Fumes

Wet epoxy has strong fumes. Darker shades of epoxy have more hardeners than the lighter shades; they have a tendency of having an ammonia smell after applying.

Moisture

Epoxy doesn’t breathe once it cures, meaning that any moisture trapped below the surface can be a problem as it evaporates. It may lead to the need for repair or refinishing down the track, as bubbling or buckling in the flooring material may occur in some cases.

Now that you know the pros and cons of garage floor epoxy systems, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision. If you’re looking for Sydney epoxy flooring experts, get in touch with Sydney Innovative Floor Tech today. We provide the highest quality epoxy floors at the best rates.

Our team of experts can do it all, we will undertake the design, surface preparation and installation of an epoxy floor within your garage.

We have a range of solid colours, flake systems and marble effects to choose from. We can also embed logos, photos or writing into your garage floor, as well as install both graffiti walls and floors.

For more info visit: www.innovativefloor.com.au today.

Flooring plays a large part in an industrial or commercial space, both aesthetically and functionally. Whether you’re designing a new space or renovating an existing business space, you need to think about the type of floor covering you will require. Flooring can control noise, outline work areas, contribute to safety and even be used for branding.

More…

Why line marking is so important in a warehouse

Whether you’re a producer or distributor of goods, you’ll be aware of how important it is to effectively manage logistical processes which includes the storage and distribution of those goods. If a warehouse is run efficiently and effectively this can have a positive impact not only on your logistics cycle but on your bottom line as well.

What is line marking?

Line marking is a form of visual communication within a space. It is a pretty simple yet effective technique that uses lines to communicate with those that use the space. Line markings can be used to segregate a space, to improve navigation, ensure a space is safe and improve accessibility.

It can outline walkways, drive paths for equipment, specific storage areas and much more.

So, if you’re a warehouse owner or manager, you should be utilising this simple technique to make your warehouse a safer, more efficient space.

What are the benefits of line marking?

Warehouses are often busy spaces; a space filled with lots of goods, people that need to access those goods, as well as machinery and other ad hoc items can mean disaster if not managed properly. People need to get from point A to point B to access goods or accomplish a task, and they need to know the easiest, quickest and safest way to get there.

Safety

The health and safety of your employees should be at the top of your list. A warehouse environment can provide all sorts of obstacles and risks, however if it’s managed properly, it can be a safe and thriving setting. Line marking is always visible and is therefore a constant way of visually communicating with individuals that are using the space. It can alert employees of high-risk areas, direct them down certain pathways and inform them of designated zones. This allows employees to be constantly aware of the risks and therefore how they should behave within that area.

Less incidents

Taking safety into consideration directly affects the number of incidents that occur in a space. Accidents are unavoidable, they are bound to happen. However, having a safe, well-marked space will reduce the number of incidents that occur. Providing a space where employees feel comfortable and safe is crucial to a happy working environment, if your employees feel like their lives are at risk on a daily basis, this could negatively affect their mental health; they are bound to leave the organisation to find employment elsewhere.

Incidents not only affect staff, they also have a negative effect on the business, loss of products or damage to property can also be costly.

Utilisation of space

Line marking is the easiest way to keep a space neat and tidy and ensures that the space is utilized correctly. Having a messy underutilized space not only causes frustration, it doesn’t fully maximise the use of the space. What does this mean for you? A less efficient and less profitable space. There’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to find what you’re looking for, so a messy warehouse space can demotivate staff. It can also cause all sorts of problems in the OH&S space; a messy space means more obstacles and poorer hygiene increasing risks for staff.

You also don’t have the chance to assess your space and determine if it could be utilised better. If items are stored neatly and correctly, it will give you the chance to review your storage system, and look for improvement opportunities; the more you can store, the more you can sell.

Increased efficiency

Line marking has a direct affect on efficiency; it improves it drastically. An increase in productivity is beneficial to everyone in the organisation, not only does it make the organisation more profitable, but it increases staff morale. If staff feel productive, they are more likely to be engaged and loyal to their employer.

Bottom line

 

Improved productivity, means a better bottom line, it’s as simple as that. Increasing efficiency means increasing output, and increasing output means increasing profits. Line markings make a space much more organised and are therefore a crucial part of an efficient space. A smooth flow within a warehouse means ease of use for all of those using the space.

Line marking plays a crucial role in making your warehouse efficient and safe. So, if you’re considering it for your space, here are some tips to help you with your warehouse line marking:

• Plan ahead: Ensure that you do a full assessment of the space and determine what is required; planning is crucial here.
• Keep it simple: Don’t overcomplicate your line markings. Remember that it’s a way of visually communicating with your employees, so you don’t want to confuse them.
• Test the practicability of your plan: Before marking the facility floor, it’s a good idea to do a test of the planned markings. This will determine if the line markings will actually improve productivity.
• Is temporary or permanent line marking required: If you have an evolving space, then consider a temporary solution. However, if you initially do permanent line marking, and need it to be changed in the future, line marking removal is also an option.
• Prepare the space: Ensure that the space is organised and prepared for when the line marking occurs.
• Use a professional service: If you want line markings that last under a lot of foot traffic, then using a professional service is the way to go. They will use high quality, durable materials that last. Redoing the floors time and time again interrupts operations.
• Use the correct colours: Similar to a traffic light system, people respond to different colours. Red means danger and so on.

Line marking can make or break a space, and is well worth the initial investment. It’s hugely important to making your warehouse an employee friendly space, decreasing risks and increasing productivity.

For expert line marking services, get in touch with Sydney Innovative Floor Tech today. We have extensive experience in the assessment, planning and execution of line markings, ensuring that you get the most out of your space. Our team can provide guidance and advice in regards to best practice and will ensure that you’re getting the most out of your space. Contact us to discuss your line marking plans today on 0434 359 588 or visit: www.innovativefloor.com.au to find out more.