Keeping It Cool: Flooring Options for Walk-in Coolers and Freezers
When it comes to walk-in coolers and freezers, selecting the appropriate flooring is crucial to ensure durability and operational efficiency. The demanding nature of these environments, with constant temperature fluctuations, moisture, spills, and heavy equipment usage, requires flooring options that can withstand such challenges without compromising safety or hygiene standards. Traditional flooring materials, such as tile or concrete, may not provide the necessary resilience to withstand the harsh conditions found in walk-in coolers and freezers. However, there are several flooring options available that can significantly improve the functionality and longevity of these areas.
The Importance of Insulated Flooring
Insulated flooring is essential to preserve the freshness and flavor of perishable food items at optimal refrigeration temperatures. A layered floor is typically installed in commercial walk-in coolers or freezers to prevent food spoilage. The flooring options commonly used include sheet metal, quarry tile, or concrete. However, repetitive wear and tear on these surfaces can cause buckling or cracking over time, leading to subfloor damage. You can tell if the floor is damaged when water reaches the subfloor and freezes, causing expansion and breaking the layers above it.
Suppose a leaking issue in the flooring goes unnoticed or unresolved. In that case, it can lead to extensive damage to the layers underneath and eventually cause leakage into the rooms below, especially in a multi-level environment. Once condensation forms, keeping the floor clean and dry is difficult. What’s worse is the growth of mold, which can cause costly repairs and downtime, ultimately affecting the bottom line.
Additionally, insulating the floor is crucial to keep your walk-in cooler cool and energy efficient. How do you insulate it? It may be surprising to know that insulting a walk-in cooler is not complicated or expensive. Protecting the floor will help you save money in the long run by reducing energy consumption and preventing costly damages and repairs. So, why wait? Insulate your walk-in cooler floor today for efficiency and durability.
The Most Effective Method for Insulating a Walk-in Cooler Floor
A layered approach is crucial if you're looking to insulate your walk-in cooler floor effectively. By starting with a sturdy subfloor material such as concrete, adding a layer of insulation, and then two layers of plywood, you'll be able to prevent moisture and maintain consistent temperatures. To ensure the plywood doesn't shear, it's crucial to have overlapping seams. Finally, add a top flooring layer such as steel diamond plate panels or grouted non-slip quarry tile for added protection.
Layering your walk-in cooler floor to create the best insulation for your floor will pay off in the long run by keeping your walk-in cooler running at optimal conditions while preventing long-term damage.
Contact GS Draft today for a complete guide to your ideal flooring options for walk-in coolers and freezers.
(949) 421-3882