For hangars and other aviation facilities, safety and durability is non-negotiable! Your surface must be able to withstand extreme weight loads, chemical spills and constant foot or equipment traffic. In this blog, we’ll explore the best practices for optimal flooring in the aviation industry. Here’s the top six flooring solutions for your facility:

1: Inspections and evaluations:

If you have existing damage within your facility such as cracks or spalling, this may create MAJOR safety hazards. Having professionals come out to properly assess your floor will allow you to address any issues to ensure your facility’s floor is ready to handle your aircraft, equipment and normal wear and tear.

2: Proper floor system in place:

Whether you’re building a new hangar or resurfacing an old terminal, choosing the right floor system is key so your facility is easy to maintain. Many aviation facilities benefit from seamless epoxy and resinous flooring systems because they’re engineered to handle exposure to harsh chemicals, heavy equipment, frequent cleaning cycles and other unique challenges of the aviation industry. 

Tip: Polished concrete is also a great choice for many aviation facilities as it combines durability with aesthetic appeal.  Its sleek, modern finish provides a beautiful, long-lasting sheen, while its reflective surface can enhance lighting efficiency. Polished concrete can be customized with coloring and staining, offering a unique look for terminals, offices and lobbies. It’s a sustainable option with minimal maintenance requirements for high-traffic areas.

3: Repairs and rejuvenation:

Over time, your floors' constant exposure to harsh chemicals and heavy equipment, especially in high-traffic areas such as maintenance zones, will inevitably lead to wear over time. Rejuvenation and timely repairs can help ensure your floor remains ready for operational demands and can even prevent small issues from escalating into more expensive projects.

Tip: Skydrol fluid is corrosive and can damage your concrete. There are various coatings resistant to Skydrol, such as epoxy, to help protect your floor from damage without compromising its visual appeal!

4: Ongoing maintenance:

Aviation facilities endure heavy use and without proper upkeep, they can deteriorate quickly. Regular floor maintenance is essential in order for your floor to perform at its best for years to come. By performing routine cleaning and regular upkeep, you can keep your facility’s floor resistant to staining, wear and chemicals.

5: Floor safety and demarcation:

A safe floor is crucial for the staff, visitors and sensitive equipment in aviation environments. Slip-resistant flooring will enhance the safety for workers and equipment operators, while clear floor demarcations will help define high-traffic areas, maintenance zones or storage areas. These are essential to streamline your aviation operations, help prevent accidents and improve your overall workflow. Additionally, these will help maintain accessible paths for individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring your facility is ADA compliant. 

6: In-house team training:

Training and demos provide your team with tools and knowledge to handle maintenance, cleaning, equipment or DIY repairs in-house! By having hands-on training and advanced education on how to properly maintain your floor and address spills, your staff can help maximize the service life of your floor.

Ultimately, investing in these flooring solutions for your aviation facility will help create a safe, efficient workplace. From ensuring that it can withstand abrasion and chemicals to maximizing its service life with proper maintenance, there are some simple steps you can take for your aviation facility today. By looking into these suggested solutions, you’ll ensure your aviation facility, staff and the equipment inside is well-protected.

Want to learn more about the flooring solutions QuestMark can provide for the aviation industry? Come visit us at the MRO Americas Aviation Show in Atlanta, GA on April 8th, 9th and 10th. We will be at booth 4723: https://mroamericas.aviationweek.com/en/exhibition/exhibitorlistEP.html.