There are very few construction jobs that do not benefit from using a surface protection.  One of the qualifications that customers look for in a contractor is the ability to leave the area clean and undamaged.  Using a modern EFC (Exterior Floor Cover) protects both the client and your workers.

Main benefits to using an EFC

A modern EFC such as Aqua Shield prevents damage to surfaces owned by your client.  This surface is easily applied and fully removable when desired.  Supplied by a company like Triamco, the covering comes in various widths and thicknesses.  The thickest version protects surface from equipment such as carts, wheelbarrows, and fork lifts.  All EFCs protect against leakage of water or oil on to the surface below.  This includes any paint drippings, dust and footprints made by your workers. The EFC surface is also fire retardant.  In case of a fire, it provides some protection to both your workers and your client.  When done, the ECF makes surface cleaning quick and easy.  The Shield can be folded up and used again on the next job, or recycled.

Other Uses for EFCs

Many ECF customers have found that the EFC provides extra safety for their workers.  Many industrial floors can be quite slippery when wet because they have a smooth surface.  The surface of EFC is varied and it provides good footing for anyone walking in the area.

Often construction leaves parts of buildings open that would ordinarily be closed or finished.  Many construction projects find that they have to deal with the problem of graffiti on their surfaces.  Covering any surface with the EFC prevents damage from markers and spray paints.  If they paint the surface after dark not realizing it had a cover, the damage is completely removed on cleanup.

Securing your EFC

To make your EFC secure to the floor and walls, various tapes and securing devices are also supplied by companies like Triamco.  This allows your EFC to stay in place during use as well as changes in the weather.  Your EFC should be applied at room temperatures; applying it when cold or hot can cause problems later on with changes to the EFC surface.

A simple-to-install EFC is much cheaper and faster to use than the Masonite that has been used for this purpose in the past.  Plus, using modern EFCs increases a contractor’s use of recyclable products on each job. EFCs are available at Home Depot for immediate use on a project.