As digital technology and sensitive electronics become central to more industries, anti static flooring is now a staple in commercial, industrial, and laboratory spaces. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) and static build-up are real threats, not just to electronics, but also to process safety and workplace productivity. While installing an anti static floor is a smart first step, the long-term performance and compliance of these floors often depend on the correct approach to floor maintenance.
But can ESD and anti static floors be sealed like regular floors? What sealers are compatible, and what should you avoid? This article will hopefully give you a clear, factual, and practical understanding, helping you make the right choices for lasting conductivity, safety, and compliance.
Why Seal an Anti Static Floor?
Sealing a floor traditionally serves several purposes: it protects the surface from stains, chemicals, and wear, and makes cleaning easier. However, with ESD and anti static flooring, sealing must never compromise the floor’s ability to dissipate static electricity. The right approach can:
- Extend the life of your floor
- Enhance ease of maintenance
- Help retain the conductivity and static dissipative properties required by standards
The wrong approach, on the other hand, can render your anti static floor non-compliant and create significant risks for sensitive equipment or processes.
The Risks of Using Incorrect Sealers on Anti Static Flooring
Standard floor sealers, such as acrylic finishes, waxes, or conventional polymer coatings are insulating by nature. Applying them to an anti static floor will block the path to ground for static charges, raising the floor’s surface resistance and potentially nullifying its ESD protection.
Key point:
Never use regular floor polishes, waxes, or sealers on ESD or anti static floors unless they are specifically formulated for ESD environments.
What Makes a Sealer ESD-Safe or Anti Static?
To be safe for use on anti static flooring, a floor sealing product must:
- Be formulated with conductive polymers or carbon-based additives.
- Have documented testing and compliance (usually surface resistance readings between 10⁴ and 10⁹ ohms).
- Not create a continuous, insulating film that blocks the floor’s conductive pathway to earth.
Look for products labelled as:
- Conductive floor finish
- ESD floor polish
- Anti static floor sealer
- Dissipative floor finish
They should clearly state suitability for use on ESD or anti static floors, along with test results or certifications (ANSI/ESD S20.20, IEC 61340, or equivalent).
Types of Anti Static and ESD-Safe Floor Sealers
1. Conductive Floor Finish / ESD Floor Polish
- Purpose: Adds a wear layer while retaining or enhancing conductivity.
- Formulation: Contains conductive polymers or carbon fibres.
- Application: Usually applied in multiple thin coats (2–4), allowing each to dry before adding the next.
- Use: Ideal for vinyl, VCT (vinyl composition tile), epoxy, and rubber ESD flooring.
Example brands (UK/EU):
- Dr. Schutz ESD Floor Coating
- Zotec ESD Floor Polish
- ElectraGuard ESD Floor Finish
(Always confirm compatibility with your specific floor manufacturer)
2. Two-Component Conductive Epoxy Sealers
- Purpose: Heavy-duty, chemical-resistant, and long-lasting surface for industrial anti static floors.
- Formulation: Epoxy base with conductive fillers, sometimes requiring specialist application.
- Use: Common in electronics manufacturing, data centres, and clean rooms.
Note:
These sealers are usually applied as part of an initial install or full refurbishment, not as a regular maintenance finish.
3. ESD Coating Systems for Raised Access and Concrete Floors
- Specialised, multi-layer systems (primers, conductive coats, topcoats) designed for environments needing both static control and heavy-duty performance.
When and Why Should You Seal an Anti Static Floor?
Common reasons to use a floor sealer on ESD flooring:
- The original surface is wearing or losing shine.
- Foot traffic is high and you want easier daily maintenance.
- Regular cleaning has not restored conductivity.
- Your ESD audit indicates resistance is drifting out of compliance.
- Manufacturer or installer recommends periodic topcoating for long-term performance.
Always consult your floor’s manufacturer or an ESD specialist before applying any new coating or finish.
How to Apply an ESD-Safe Sealer or Finish (Step-by-Step)
1. Test Conductivity First
- Measure the current resistance of your floor at multiple points. Document the readings.
2. Thoroughly Clean the Floor
- Remove all wax, old polish, and contaminants with an ESD-safe stripper or cleaner.
- Rinse well; allow the floor to dry fully.
3. Apply the ESD Finish
- Stir or mix the product as instructed.
- Use a clean, synthetic finish mop or applicator.
- Apply in thin, even coats, following the manufacturer’s recommended number of coats and drying times.
- Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
- Avoid over-applying, which can cause puddling and uneven conductivity.
4. Cure and Test
- Allow the finish to cure for the recommended period.
- Re-test floor resistance at several locations to confirm compliance.
- Record all results for audit and quality control purposes.
5. Regular Maintenance
- Use only ESD-safe cleaners for routine care.
- Avoid all-purpose cleaners, standard polishes, or disinfectants that can leave an insulating residue.
Which Anti Static Floors Can Be Sealed?
Most ESD vinyl, rubber, and epoxy floors can be coated with ESD-safe finishes for maintenance and longevity. However:
- Static-dissipative carpets may are not suitable for sealers.
- Painted or printed ESD floors may need periodic recoating with the original (or compatible) conductive paint or system.
Key advice:
Always follow your floor manufacturer’s care guidelines. Incorrect sealing can void warranties or compromise performance.
Best Practices for Maintaining Sealed ESD and Anti Static Floors
- Routine ESD compliance testing – at least quarterly or as required by industry standards.
- Use entrance matting to reduce abrasive wear.
- Clean with ESD-safe, residue-free detergents.
- Schedule regular professional ESD floor assessments for high-risk environments.
When to Call a Specialist Floor Sealing Service
If your anti static flooring is showing signs of wear, non-compliance, or dullness, a professional floor cleaning and sealing company like Beaver Floorcare can:
- Assess and measure conductivity
- Recommend the correct ESD-safe sealer or finish
- Apply coatings to manufacturer and industry standards
- Provide ongoing maintenance and compliance support
Summary: Protecting Your Investment and Compliance
Sealing your anti static floor can deliver real value, prolonging surface life, maintaining safety, and keeping your facility compliant with ESD standards. The key is to always use the right ESD-safe finish, follow best practices, and regularly monitor your floor’s performance.
Need advice or a professional anti static floor sealing service?
Contact Beaver Floorcare for expert help. We specialise in anti static flooring, ESD compliance, and safe, effective floor sealing for every environment.