Flake Epoxy vs Quartz Epoxy Floors
When it comes to selecting epoxy floors that offer superior strength, wear resistance, chemical resistance, and visual appeal, Quartz epoxy and Chip floors are excellent options. These epoxy floors are provided by Epoxy Plus Pro and are trusted solutions installed globally across various industries. In this article, we will delve into the differences and benefits of each type, their construction, and the specific applications where they excel.
Common Applications for Epoxy Quartz and Epoxy Flake/Chip Floors in New Jersey and New York
Epoxy floors like Quartz and Flake are versatile and suited for a wide range of environments. Here are some common places where these durable floors are frequently installed:
Hospitals
In healthcare settings, floors must withstand heavy foot traffic and frequent cleaning. Epoxy floors like Epoxy Plus Pro Quartz and Epoxy Plus Pro Chip provide a hygienic, easy-to-clean surface that maintains its appearance and functionality over time.
Locker Rooms
Locker rooms require slip-resistant, durable floors that can handle moisture and heavy use. Quartz epoxy floors are especially suitable for these areas due to their enhanced slip resistance.
Cleanrooms
For environments that demand minimal contamination, such as cleanrooms, epoxy floors offer a seamless, non-porous surface that is easy to sanitize and maintain.
Retail Spaces
Retail environments benefit from the aesthetic appeal and durability of epoxy floors, which can endure high traffic while providing a visually appealing finish.
Laboratories
Laboratories require floors that are resistant to chemicals and easy to clean. Epoxy floors meet these requirements, making them ideal for scientific and research settings.
Schools
Educational institutions need floors that can handle constant use and are easy to maintain. Both Quartz and Flake provide the necessary durability and aesthetics for such environments.
Pharmaceutical Facilities
Pharmaceutical settings demand floors that are hygienic and resistant to chemicals. Epoxy floors fulfill these requirements, ensuring a safe and clean environment.
Supermarkets
Supermarkets see heavy foot traffic and require floors that are both durable and slip-resistant. Epoxy floors provide these benefits while maintaining an attractive appearance.
Lobbies
Lobbies benefit from the high strength and aesthetic appeal of epoxy floors, which can withstand the wear and tear of constant use.
Cafeterias
In cafeterias, floors need to be easy to clean, durable, and slip-resistant. Quartz epoxy floors offer enhanced slip resistance, making them an excellent choice for such areas.
Restrooms
Restrooms require floors that can handle moisture and frequent cleaning. Epoxy floors are seamless and non-porous, making them easy to maintain.
Dining Areas
Dining areas benefit from the durability and aesthetics of epoxy floors, which provide a pleasant and practical flooring solution.
Overview of Epoxy Quartz and Durable Flake/Chip Systems
Quartz and Flake are both epoxy-based double broadcast flooring systems. While they share similarities in construction, they differ in the materials used and their specific properties.
A Durable Quartz System Installed by Epoxy Contractors in NJ
Quartz utilizes two layers of decorative colored quartz. This system is known for its superior durability and slip resistance. The build of the Quartz system includes:
- Topcoat: Clear Armor-Top
- Grout Coat: Clear or Ultra Clear (1 coat for standard texture, 2 coats for orange peel texture, 3 coats for smooth texture)
- Second Quartz Broadcast: Clear with Broadcast of Q28 or Q11 Decorative Quartz Aggregate
- Quartz Broadcast: Clear with a Broadcast of Q28 or Q11 Decorative Quartz Aggregate
- Primer: Colored WB, Dur-A-Glaze MVP, or Elast-O-Coat
- Prepared Substrate: Concrete Surface Profile of 3-4
Durable Flake System for Garage Floors and More
Durable Chip epoxy employs a layer of vinyl chips. This system is preferred for its aesthetic flexibility and is slightly less durable than the quartz system. The build of this system system includes:
- Topcoat: Clear Armor-Top
- Grout Coat: Clear or Ultra Clear
- Chip Broadcast: Clear and Broadcast of Macro or Micro Decorative Vinyl Chip
- Primer: Epoxy Plus WB Tinted
- Prepared Substrate: Concrete Surface Profile of 3-4
Detailed Comparisons of Quartz and Chip Floors
Durability and Strength
Durability is a crucial factor when selecting epoxy floors. Quartz floors are slightly more durable than Chip floors, primarily due to the inherent strength of quartz granules compared to vinyl flakes. Quartz granules are significantly harder to break, providing higher compressive and tensile strength.
Compressive Strength
Compressive strength measures how much force a material can withstand before cracking. Using the ASTM C-579 standard, Quartz systems have a compressive strength of 12,500 psi, while Flake systems have a rating of 10,500 psi. When tested with the ASTM D-695 standard, Quartz systems have a compressive strength of 17,500 psi compared to Chip systems’ 16,000 psi.
Tensile Strength
Tensile strength measures the force required to pull a material apart. Quartz systems have a tensile strength of 4,000 psi, whereas Chip systems have a tensile strength of 3,700 psi. Not much difference, but if you need it, we have it.
Slip Resistance
Slip resistance is another critical factor, especially in areas prone to moisture. Quartz epoxy floors provide better slip resistance due to the natural texture of quartz. Both systems perform well in dry conditions with a Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) rating of ≥0.8 without anti-slip additives. However, in wet conditions, Quartz floors rate at ≥0.65, while Chip floors rate at ≥0.42 without anti-slip additives.
Physical Properties Comparison
Here is a detailed comparison of the physical properties of Dur-A-Quartz and Dur-A-Chip floors:
| Property | Test Method | Quartz | Chip/Flake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness, Shore D | ASTM D2240 | 75-80 | 75-80 |
| Compressive Strength (ASTM D695) | ASTM C579 | 17,500 psi | 16,000 psi |
| Compressive Strength (ASTM C579) | ASTM D695 | 12,500 psi | 10,500 psi |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | 4,000 psi | 3,700 psi |
| Abrasion Resistance | ASTM D4060 | 10 mg loss no grit, 4 mg loss with Armor Top Gloss with Grit | 10 mg loss no grit, 4 mg loss with Armor Top Gloss with Grit |
| Impact Resistance | ASTM D2794 | >160 in-lb | >160 in-lb |
| Slip Resistance Dry (single grout coat over broadcast) | ANSI 326.3 -LAB DRY | ≥0.8 without anti-slip additives* | ≥0.8 without anti-slip additives* |
| Slip Resistance Wet (single grout coat over broadcast) | ANSI 326.3 -LAB WET | ≥0.65 without anti-slip additives* | ≥0.42 without anti-slip additives* |
*Epoxy Plus Pro flooring systems can be customized to meet or exceed slip resistance requirements using various additives. Consult with a sales manager for specific needs.
Abrasion Resistance
Both Quartz and Chip floors exhibit excellent abrasion resistance. The use of Armor Top Gloss with grit enhances this property, ensuring minimal wear and tear over time.
Impact Resistance
Both flooring systems have an impact resistance rating of >160 in-lb, making them suitable for environments where heavy objects may fall or where high impact is a concern.
Compressive Strength in Detail
Compressive strength is the amount of downward force a material can withstand before cracking. Resinous floors are tested with two standards: American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) C-579 (concrete and mortars) and D-695 (plastics).
ASTM C-579 Standard
Using the ASTM C-579, typical concrete has a compressive strength of 3,000 – 4,000 psi. By the same standard, Quartz systems have a compressive strength of 12,500 psi, and Chip systems rating is 10,500 psi.
ASTM D-695 Standard
Using the ASTM D-695 standard, Quartz systems have a compressive strength of 17,500 psi, and Chip systems rating is 16,000 psi.
Tensile Strength in Detail
Tensile strength is the amount of pulling force a material can withstand before cracking or breaking apart. Resinous floors are tested with ASTM D-638 as the standard.
Reference to Concrete
For reference, typical concrete has a tensile strength of 300 – 700 psi. Both Quartz and our Flake systems are far superior to this rating. Quartz systems have a tensile strength of 4,000 psi, versus Chip systems’ rating of 3,700 psi.
Slip Resistance
Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) measures slip resistance during motion. The DCOF is the force needed to stop a moving object against a stationary object. The standards that are widely used for this are based on the tile industry. American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 326.3 is the guide for hard surface floors, including ceramic tile. It sets the standard for slip resistance to be a wet value greater than 0.42.
ANSI 326.3 Standard for Dry Floors
Using ANSI 326.3 testing for dry floors, both systems with a single grout coat over the broadcast rate at ≥ 0.8 (without anti-slip additives.)
ANSI 326.3 Standard for Wet Floors
Using ANSI 326.3 testing for wet floors, Quartz (with a single grout coat over the broadcast) rates at ≥ 0.65 without anti-slip additives while Chip (with a single grout coat over the broadcast) rates at ≥ 0.42 (with anti-slip additives.)
Choosing the Right Epoxy Flooring System in NY & NJ
Factors to Consider
When selecting between Quartz and Chip floors, consider the specific needs of your facility. Factors such as compressive strength, tensile strength, and slip resistance are crucial. For facilities requiring higher strength and slip resistance without additional additives, Quartz is the better choice. For environments where aesthetics and flexibility are more important, Chip is an excellent option.
Consulting with Professionals
For more information on choosing the right epoxy floors, talk to your Epoxy Plus Pro sales consultant. They will assist in determining which flooring system will best address the needs of your facility.
Recap
Epoxy Plus Pro Quartz and Flake epoxy floors are trusted for their durability and performance. While they share many similarities, they differ in key areas such as compressive strength, tensile strength, and slip resistance. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision for your specific application.
Contact Epoxy Plus Pro
For professional assistance with epoxy floor installation in New York City and Northern New Jersey, consult with the most experienced epoxy floor contractors in New Jersey and New York. They can provide expert advice and ensure that your flooring system meets all your needs and expectations.