What Is The Best Flooring For Walk-In Coolers And Freezers? Types & Needs

Walk-in freezers are essential to any food service business because they keep food at a cold enough temperature where it can be stored. Resinous floor coating over insulated layers can be a long-term solution that supports colder temperatures and is highly durable. If you run a food service business, a walk-in cooler/freezer with an insulated epoxy floor coating can save you time on maintenance and money from not having to replace rotten food.

What Types Of Floors Work For Walk-In Coolers And Freezers?

Insulated flooring

Insulated flooring is the best option for freezers and walk-in coolers because it helps to maintain the proper temperature to prevent food from spoiling. Installing this layered flooring in your walk-in cooler will prevent mold formation, floor discoloration, and buckling as water constantly spills.

How do you insulate a walk-in cooler floor?

Layering is the most effective way to insulate a walk-in cooler floor as it enhances moisture resistance and helps maintain temperature. To insulate your walk-in cooler floor, you need to level out and clean the existing subflooring before the insulation material can be applied. Once the insulation material is applied correctly, the finishing material can be layered over it and left to sit for around eight to twelve hours. The finishing material can be grouted tiles, aluminum panels, or epoxy.

How Do Walk-in Cooler Floors Get Replaced?

Replacing walk-in cooler floors requires great caution and expertise that you can only get by hiring a specialized industrial flooring contractor. The replacement process is in stages, as explained below.

Stage 1: The first step is to remove the damaged flooring and the insulation underneath it until all you have left is the subflooring.

Stage 2: We peel off the finishes, leaving just the cooler and subfloor.

Stage 3: We layer a new and thick insulation barrier on the subfloor. The thickness of this barrier will depend on the temperature of your cooler.

Stage 4: After the insulation process, when the barrier has been left to sit for a while, the next step is to place pre-sealed plywood carefully on the surface to fit the exact size of the cooler box.

Stage 5: We ensure that each layer of plywood overlaps the one beside it. This will allow an even distribution of weight once the job is complete.

Stage 6: After placing the plywood panels on the insulation barrier, we screw them to the surface to keep them secure. The next step is to apply the epoxy.

Stage 7: We spread the epoxy resin evenly on the plywood, then leave it to dry for 8 to 12 hours.

Are there any post-installation tips for maintaining/cleaning?

After restoring your cooler box flooring, you must take preventive action to ensure it doesn’t get damaged in the foreseeable future. The best way to do this is by removing standing water and cleaning the floors properly. Set aside a day or two each year to defrost your walk-in cooler. Make sure to clean your air vents and do essential cooling system maintenance during this period.

What Are The Benefits Of An Industrial Epoxy Floor For Your Cooler Box (Walk-In Freezer)?

Due to its immense durability, industrial epoxy is an exceptional choice for walk-in freezers. Some other benefits of industrial epoxy are as follows:

• Slip-resistance: Industrial epoxy is composed of quartz/marble chips held together by a special non-slip adhesive resin.

• Immense durability: Industrial epoxy floors are specifically designed to withstand high traffic, high impact from falling objects, and the weight of large items. Unlike most flooring alternatives, this flooring option copes exceptionally well with temperature fluctuations.
• Low maintenance: Industrial epoxy is not only non-porous but also requires very little maintenance and copes well with the demanding nature of walk-in coolers.

Hire A Leading Industrial Flooring Contractor

Epoxy flooring is cost-effective and is one of the most durable flooring options for commercial kitchens. In addition, they are slip-resistant, especially for water-prone areas like walk-in coolers, and their alluring and glossy appearance looks terrific. However, you need an expert with years of experience to install the floor or risk spending thousands of dollars on repairs and maintenance.

Final Thoughts On Walk-In Freezer Floors

By enlisting our services for your walk-in cooler flooring, you are assured of superior and unparalleled results. We understand the damaging effect moisture and heavy items can have on your walk-in cooler floors. This is why we make it a point to provide the best flooring reinforcement to endure any strain and keep your space free from bacteria, crack, and odor.  Contact us anytime to learn about our flooring options, pricing, and installation processes.

What are the main considerations when choosing flooring for walk-in coolers and freezers?

When choosing flooring for walk-in coolers and freezers, consider factors such as thermal shock resistance, slip resistance, ease of cleaning, durability, and compliance with health and safety regulations.

What different types of epoxy floors are available for industrial use?

Different types of epoxy floors for industrial use include self-leveling epoxy floors, epoxy mortar floors, anti-static epoxy floors, and epoxy terrazzo floors. Each type is designed to meet specific needs and conditions.

Why is thermal shock resistance important for walk-in cooler and freezer flooring?

Thermal shock resistance is crucial because the flooring will be subjected to frequent and rapid temperature changes, which can cause traditional materials to crack or fail. Floors must withstand these variations without deteriorating.

How does slip resistance benefit walk-in cooler and freezer environments?

Slip resistance is vital in preventing accidents in environments where moisture and ice are prevalent. Floors with good slip resistance reduce the risk of slips and falls, ensuring a safer working environment.

What makes epoxy floors suitable for walk-in coolers and freezers?

Epoxy floors are highly durable, resistant to thermal shock, and easy to clean, making them an excellent choice for walk-in coolers and freezers. They also provide a seamless, non-porous surface that resists moisture and bacteria growth.

Are there any specific types of epoxy floors recommended for coolers and freezers?

Yes, specific types of epoxy floors designed for extreme temperature conditions and heavy foot and equipment traffic are recommended. These specialized epoxy floors ensure longevity and performance in such demanding environments.

Can epoxy floors be used in both commercial and industrial settings?

Epoxy floors are versatile and can be used in both commercial and industrial settings. They are particularly popular in food processing facilities, warehouses, and any area requiring a durable and easy-to-clean surface.

What are the benefits of epoxy floors for businesses?

Epoxy floors offer numerous benefits for businesses, including high durability, resistance to chemicals and stains, ease of maintenance, and enhanced appearance. They also provide a safe, slip-resistant surface and can withstand heavy traffic.

How do you maintain and clean epoxy floors in walk-in coolers and freezers?

Maintaining and cleaning epoxy floors in walk-in coolers and freezers involves regular sweeping and mopping with a mild detergent. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the epoxy coating. Regular inspections for any damage or wear are also recommended.

What are the cost considerations when installing epoxy floors in walk-in coolers and freezers?

Cost considerations include the initial installation cost, which can vary based on the type of epoxy used and the size of the area, as well as long-term savings from reduced maintenance and increased durability. Investing in high-quality epoxy floors can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their longevity and low maintenance requirements.