SIKAFLOOR®-3 QuartzTop Design
Light reflection and improved productivity
In recent studies, proper lighting has been cited as a key factor in increasing workplace productivity andemployee satisfaction. As environmental aspects and green building solutions (Leeds certificate) have grownin popularity, lighting technology has dramatically improved and facility managers are incorporating theseadvanced, energy-efficient means of lighting into their operational expenses. However, there is one thing thatthe lighting engineers do not include in their calculations, and that is reflection.
In the manufacturing sector, a slew of studies have been conducted about manufacturing efficiency, especially inthe field of labor productivity. All the environmental factors have been studied, although one impact factor hasbeen overlooked - lighting.
Efficient Lighting and Productivity
When evaluating productivity and energy savings, it isimperative to look at the LRV (Lighting Reflectivity Value) ofthe floors.
Using the lighting reflectivity scale for polished concreteshows not only the reflection but the color of the surface is amajor part of lighting efficiency in the workplace. To obtainthe white concrete floor reflection that is truly needed toincrease illumination you need a polished floor with minimumof 75 DOI (Distinctness of Image). This should not be confusedwith gloss, as it is not the same.
Increasing these surface’s LRV Scale percentage reduces the amount of light needed to achieve the desiredillumination for the task at hand
When LRV is Increased 75%, facilities will see:
- Significant Energy Savings
- Reduced Human Errors
- Better Quality Control
- Improved Safety
- Enhanced Working Environment
These effects are documented in the ANSI, LightingStandards Document, “Proper illumination is essentialfor the optimization of safety, comfort and productivityin the workplace; workplace lighting also dictatesquality of perception, mood, and performance levels ofemployees.”
White Polished Concrete or Epoxy?
Both white polished concrete and epoxy floor coatings are considered good choices for industrial floorsand production facilities. Both systems are known to be budget-friendly, efficient, and promise to give aunique look to the floor.
The lifetime of epoxy depends on the traffic and the volume it must withstand, typically lasting between 10 to 20 years. A Sikafloor-3 QuartzTop Design floor can last up to 30 years and, most importantly, the cost ofrefurbishing a QuartzTop surface may only be a fraction of the epoxy refurbishing cost.
There are several factors to consider when deciding between a white polished concrete or epoxy floor:
- Intended Use of the Space
- Chemical Exposure/Resistance
- Impact and Abrasion Resistance
- Aesthetics
- Project Costs
- Maintenance Regimen
Sika’s staff of flooring experts is always on hand to review your facility’s requirements and will assist youin writing a flooring specification to select the correct and efficient flooring system.
SIKAFLOOR®-3 QuartzTop Design
Transform Concrete Into A Design Statement
Sikafloor EasyFinish CS-30 - No Grind Or Polish Floor Hardener
Sikafloor® EasyFinish CS-30 is a high-performance dry-shakehardener flooring system designed for superior durability. Itspatented application method allows multiple layers of dryshake for enhanced strength and reliability. The integratedfinishing aid ensures a smooth, dense surface with improvedhardness.
Sikafloor CreamPolish CS-31 - Decorative Concrete Finish
Transform ordinary concrete into a stunning, polished surfacewith Sikafloor® CreamPolish CS-31. This advanced flooringsystem delivers a sleek, creamy appearance by exposing onlythe finest particles of dry-shake aggregate during grinding.The result? A flawless Class A finish that combines beautywith durability.
Sikafloor TerrazzoEffect CS-32 - Micro-Terrazzo Concrete Finish
Sikafloor® TerrazzoEffect CS-32 delivers a polished, terrazzoinspiredlook with exceptional durability. Its patentedapplication method allows multiple layers of dry shake forsuperior strength and aesthetics. A specially formulatedfinishing aid ensures consistent results, densifies thesurface, and enhances hardness—perfect for high-trafficenvironments.