Does Epoxy Resin Flooring get Cold?

The Short of it? Yes!

Epoxy resin flooring, with its seamless and dense composition, inherently lacks the insulative properties found in traditional floor coverings like carpet or wood. This can result in a cooler sensation underfoot, particularly in environments with lower ambient temperatures. However, this characteristic can be a boon in warmer climates, providing a pleasantly cool surface during hot spells.

The thermal conductivity of epoxy resin flooring means it rapidly adjusts to the temperature of its environment. In colder months, without the integration of an underfloor heating system, these floors can feel brisk to the touch. It's worth considering area rugs or strategic placement of furniture to mitigate the coolness in areas where you frequently walk barefoot.

Whilst epoxy resin floors may not offer the warmth of carpeted surfaces, their ability to retain temperature can be leveraged with proper heating systems. The installation of radiant heating underneath can transform the cool nature of epoxy resin into a warm and inviting surface, ensuring comfort underfoot throughout the year.

a bedroom with a light green epoxy resin floor

A kitchen with brown and white swirl effect epoxy resin flooring.

How to keep your Epoxy Resin Floor Warm

In my daily work laying down epoxy floors, I've picked up a few tricks to keep them from feeling too cold, which I often share with homeowners. A simple solution I recommend is laying down some soft rugs in those areas where you'll be walking barefoot or standing often, like in front of the kitchen sink or in the bathroom. If you're planning a new epoxy floor, I'd suggest looking into an underfloor heating system before installation; it's an investment that pays off in comfort. Drawing those thermal curtains closed can also keep your space snug by keeping out drafts. For clients who are just beginning their home projects, I discuss the possibility of an insulating barrier beneath the epoxy for that extra layer of warmth. Ensuring the rest of the house is well-insulated is another piece of advice I give; it helps maintain a stable temperature, making the floor feel less chilly.

In a pinch, a portable heater can fill in the gaps, especially in those stubbornly cold corners. When choosing an epoxy color, I often lean towards lighter colours as they don't just lighten up the room; they reflect light and can retain heat a bit better. A well-maintained, high-gloss finish will not only last longer but also help to reflect light and heat throughout the space.

Impact of Epoxy Resin Flooring on Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency

Epoxy resin floors come with specific considerations regarding heating and cooling costs in the home. When I lay down an epoxy floor, I always inform homeowners of what to expect. Unlike concrete, epoxy doesn’t have the same thermal mass to absorb and radiate heat. This means that it won’t hold onto the warmth from the sun or your heating system in the winter, which can lead to an increased reliance on your home’s heating.

However, the reflective quality of a well-polished epoxy floor can help bounce light around the room, which might add a bit of warmth. I remember one particular job where the client chose a light-coloured epoxy; they reported back that the room felt warmer when the sun was shining, even in the colder months.

During the summer, the coolness of an epoxy floor is a welcome feature. It doesn’t hold heat the same way some materials do, which can contribute to keeping indoor temperatures down. I've had customers tell me they felt less dependent on their air conditioning, especially in spaces where the epoxy floor was shaded from direct sunlight. Just like with concrete, the colour of the epoxy can make a difference. Lighter colours reflect heat, while darker ones might absorb it, which is something to consider when selecting your finish.

Epoxy resin flooring for a bedroom, yellow in colour

Are epoxy resin floors suitable for areas where people will be barefoot?

Epoxy resin floors are definitely a good choice for areas where you'll be walking around barefoot. They're smooth and easy to clean, which makes them comfortable underfoot. But sometimes they can feel a bit nippy, especially in the winter.

Is there a way to make epoxy resin floors more comfortable underfoot?

You can add area rugs or mats in key areas to provide a softer surface and some insulation against the cold. Another option is to install underfloor heating, which can make the floors warm and cozy, especially in colder months.

How does the thickness of epoxy resin floors affect their temperature?

Thicker epoxy floors tend to have better insulating properties, which can help them retain warmth slightly better than thinner layers. However, epoxy resin itself doesn't have high thermal insulation, so while a thicker floor might feel marginally warmer, it won't make a dramatic difference in overall temperature. For significant warmth improvement, pairing the epoxy with an insulating underlayment or using underfloor heating is the best approach.

What type of footwear is best for walking on epoxy resin floors in colder weather?

Slippers with a good amount of insulation or fleece lining are ideal as they keep your feet warm and cozy. Soft-soled shoes or house shoes are also a great choice, as they provide comfort without being too bulky. Additionally, socks with non-slip grips can help keep your feet warm while providing traction on the smooth surface of epoxy resin floors.

Are there specific epoxy formulations that are less cold underfoot?

Yes, there are specific epoxy formulations designed to be less cold underfoot. These formulations often include additives that enhance thermal insulation properties, making the floor feel warmer. For example, some epoxy systems incorporate rubber or foam particles, which help to reduce the coldness by adding a layer of insulation. Additionally, self-leveling epoxy formulations can provide a slightly thicker and more cushioned surface, which can also contribute to a warmer feel underfoot. When choosing an epoxy floor, look for products marketed as thermally insulating or specifically designed for comfort to ensure a more pleasant experience in colder conditions.

Are Epoxy Resin Floors Cold Underfoot?