Designing for Durability: The Long-Term Benefits of Resin Flooring in Education

Designing for Durability: The Long-Term Benefits of Resin Flooring in Education

When it comes to designing educational facilities, there are many factors that must be considered. Educational areas intended for childcare are fundamentally different from those that best serve high schools and universities, however, one thing that is certain, is that high-quality, durable flooring is essential to withstand heavy use over time, especially in high-traffic areas that are subjected to a lot of wear and tear. 

In this blog, we will delve into what resin flooring is and how it can help make the grade with its benefits that floor the competition...

Before we get into the benefits of resin flooring, what exactly is it?

Resin flooring creates a hardwearing surface, which is the result of mixing multiple components to initiate a controlled and fast chemical reaction. The chemical reaction works to lock the floor onto the substrate, thus creating a coating that is both robust and resilient.   

Resin flooring is a seamless flooring option, which means that it does not have any joints or seams. This makes it ideal for areas that require a highly hygienic and easy-to-clean surface. It is also slip-resistant, which is important in areas where there is a risk of slips and falls.

What are the different types of resin flooring?

There is a wide range of resin flooring options that have been designed to best meet the different areas it would be required. Here are some of the most common choices:

What are the benefits of resin flooring?

Polymer or resin flooring is a type of seamless flooring that is made from a combination of resin and hardener. It can be a highly durable and long-lasting flooring option that is ideal for educational facilities. There are many benefits to using resin flooring in educational settings, including:

Aesthetics: Aesthetics can heighten awareness of self and others as well as enhance creativity and curiosity which are important for educational settings. Resin flooring is available in a wide range of colours and patterns, making it attractive and easy to create a visually appealing environment that can optimise learning through the power of colour. It can be customised to match the design of any space, making it a versatile option for educational spaces. 

Safety: A major concern in educational spaces is the prevention of accidents that may arise due to slips and falls. Resin flooring can be made slip-resistant, making it a safe choice for areas at risk of slips and falls. This ensures a safer environment for students, teachers, and visitors. It is also fire-resistant and can have anti-static properties, which can help to prevent damage to sensitive electrical equipment. 

Durability: Educational facilities are high-traffic areas and need to withstand heavy foot traffic. Resin flooring can be highly durable and long-lasting, resistant to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. It is also resistant to most chemical spills and stains. (Watch out chemistry class!) The durability helps to ensure a longer lifespan, helping to save time and resources by helping minimise the need for frequent maintenance. 

Hygiene: It is of utmost importance to maintain cleanliness in schools and institutions. Resin flooring can be easy to clean and maintain, allowing spills and stains to be more easily wiped away. Types of resin flooring, such as antimicrobial polyurethane cement can also be resistant to bacteria and other microorganisms. This helps to contribute to a more sanitary and healthy environment that is beneficial to effective learning.  

Sustainability: Sustainability is becoming ever more important and is being taught within educational spaces. Resin flooring is a sustainable choice as it is composed largely of non-toxic materials, some of which have already been recycled. It could be made energy-efficient with the right colour/finish, helping to reduce energy costs over time. 

APAS Certification: In Queensland the Australian Paint Accreditation Scheme (APAS) tests and certifies paints, coatings and non-paint products to ensure they meet stringent performance specifications, which can help those looking to ensure flooring standards within their education facility, by ensuring compliance to standards and avoiding unnecessary costs that can result in failure of coatings. 

In addition to these benefits, resin flooring also offers long-term cost savings. While it may be more expensive to install initially, it requires little maintenance over time. This can help to reduce the overall cost of ownership and make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

When designing educational facilities, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of different flooring options. Resin flooring is a highly durable and sustainable choice that offers a wide range of benefits for educational settings. By choosing resin flooring, educational institutions can create a safe, hygienic, and visually appealing environment that is conducive to learning.

For specific guidance and recommendations tailored to your facility’s unique needs, consult with resin flooring experts who can help you choose the optimal solution or why not see our past projects and get some inspiration for your next project.