Introduction: Why Industrial Floors Demand More
Industrial facilities place extreme demands on their flooring. Constant forklift traffic, heavy machinery, chemical spills, impact loads, and rigorous cleaning regimes can quickly degrade standard concrete surfaces. When floors fail, the consequences include safety risks, downtime, compliance issues, and expensive repairs.
This is why many Australian industrial facilities are turning to 100% solids epoxy flooring — a high-performance coating system designed specifically for harsh environments.
Unlike lower-grade or diluted coatings, 100% solids epoxy provides a dense, seamless, and highly durable surface that protects concrete and supports long-term operational performance.
What Is 100% Solids Epoxy Flooring?
100% solids epoxy is a resin-based coating system that contains no water or solvents. Once applied, the material cures into a hard, chemically resistant surface without shrinking or evaporating during installation.
This results in:
- Maximum film thickness
- Stronger adhesion to concrete
- Minimal VOC emissions
- Exceptional durability
Because there are no fillers or evaporating components, what you apply is exactly what remains on the floor.
Why 100% Solids Epoxy Outperforms Other Coatings
Not all epoxy systems are equal. Many “epoxy” floors on the market are actually water-based or solvent-based products that compromise strength and lifespan.
Key Advantages of 100% Solids Epoxy
1. Superior Durability
100% solids epoxy forms a dense, high-strength surface capable of withstanding:
- Forklift and pallet jack traffic
- Heavy static loads
- Dropped tools and equipment
- Constant foot traffic
This makes it ideal for warehouses, manufacturing plants, workshops, and industrial processing facilities.
2. Excellent Chemical Resistance
Industrial environments regularly expose floors to:
- Oils and fuels
- Coolants
- Cleaning chemicals
- Greases and solvents
100% solids epoxy resists chemical penetration, preventing stains, surface breakdown, and concrete degradation. This protects both the floor and the underlying substrate.
3. Seamless, Non-Porous Finish
Unlike tiles or untreated concrete, epoxy flooring creates a completely seamless surface. This eliminates:
- Grout lines
- Cracks
- Gaps where contaminants can collect
A non-porous surface is easier to clean, more hygienic, and far more resistant to long-term damage.
4. Long-Term Cost Effectiveness
While high-quality epoxy flooring may have a higher upfront cost than basic coatings, it delivers significant long-term savings through:
- Reduced maintenance
- Fewer repairs
- Longer lifespan
- Less downtime
For industrial operators, this makes 100% solids epoxy one of the most cost-effective flooring solutions available.
Where 100% Solids Epoxy Flooring Is Best Used
100% solids epoxy is particularly effective in environments that demand strength, cleanliness, and reliability.
Common Applications Include:
- Warehouses and distribution centres
- Manufacturing plants
- Mechanical workshops
- Mining and resources facilities
- Automotive and transport depots
- Industrial storage areas
In these settings, epoxy flooring provides a stable, protective surface that supports safe and efficient operations.
Slip Resistance for Safer Workplaces
Safety is a major consideration in industrial environments, especially where liquids, oils, or dust may be present.
Epoxy flooring can be customised with non-slip aggregates to achieve slip ratings from R10 through to R13, depending on site requirements.
This allows facilities to:
- Meet WHS safety standards
- Reduce slip-and-fall incidents
- Maintain traction even in wet or oily areas
Slip resistance can be tailored to different zones within the same facility, ensuring safety without compromising cleanability.
Low VOC and Environmentally Responsible
Because 100% solids epoxy contains no solvents, it emits very low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during installation.
This makes it:
- Safer for installers
- Better for indoor air quality
- Suitable for occupied facilities
- Aligned with modern environmental standards
Low VOC levels are particularly important in facilities that operate continuously or cannot afford extended shutdowns.
Fast Installation and Reduced Downtime
When installed by experienced professionals, epoxy flooring systems can be applied efficiently and cured within controlled timeframes.
This allows:
- Faster return to service
- Minimal operational disruption
- Planned staging for large facilities
Wolffes designs epoxy systems with both performance and practicality in mind, ensuring installation works around operational requirements where possible.
Epoxy vs Other Flooring Options
Compared to alternatives such as tiles, bare concrete, or low-grade coatings, 100% solids epoxy offers clear advantages:
| Feature | 100% Solids Epoxy | Bare Concrete | Tiles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seamless | Yes | No | No |
| Chemical Resistance | High | Low | Moderate |
| Slip Resistance | Customisable | Low | Variable |
| Maintenance | Low | High | Moderate |
| Durability | Very High | Low | Moderate |
This makes epoxy a logical choice for demanding industrial applications.
Customised Systems for Each Facility
No two industrial sites are identical. Factors such as traffic load, chemical exposure, cleaning methods, and temperature variations all influence the ideal flooring solution.
Wolffes designs epoxy systems based on:
- Site conditions
- Operational demands
- Compliance requirements
- Long-term performance goals
This ensures each floor delivers the right balance of strength, safety, and durability.
Why Choose Wolffes for Industrial Epoxy Flooring
Wolffes specialises in industrial and commercial floor coatings across Australia, with a strong focus on compliance, performance, and longevity.
By choosing Wolffes, facilities benefit from:
- Industry-specific expertise
- High-quality epoxy systems
- Professional surface preparation
- Australian standards compliance
- Long-term flooring performance
Final Thoughts
100% solids epoxy flooring remains one of the most reliable and cost-effective solutions for industrial environments. Its durability, chemical resistance, seamless finish, and customisable safety features make it ideal for facilities that demand consistent performance under pressure.
When installed correctly, epoxy flooring protects your concrete, improves workplace safety, and reduces maintenance costs for years to come.
