graduates of Eco-Grip certification at UMI

Elevating Standards with Eco-Grip Certified Training

Posted by Universal Metro on

Raising the Standard: Universal Metro Invests in Elite Eco-Grip Certification

Eco-Grip is rapidly gaining recognition as a top-tier commercial flooring solution, particularly within the food service, healthcare, and health & wellness sectors. Built to withstand demanding environments, the product combines performance, safety, and sustainability, making it a compelling choice for clients seeking reliable, long-term value. As more organizations look for flooring options that align with sustainability goals, Eco-Grip stands out—crafted from 98% recycled materials, it supports green building practices without sacrificing durability or ease of maintenance.

At Universal Metro, we recognize that great materials are only as good as the people installing them. That’s why we’ve prioritized the education and certification of our labor force—especially with specialty products like Eco-Grip, where proper installation is critical to performance. While it is a seamless flooring system known for its clean aesthetic and watertight surface, the installation process requires specific technical knowledge and precision. Mistakes in preparation or bonding can lead to long-term issues, which is why manufacturer-approved training is essential.

This year, Universal Metro proudly hosted two hands-on training events, each designed to equip our field installers with the skills and certification needed to meet manufacturer standards. These sessions included:

  • Substrate prep and moisture control techniques specific to the product’s adhesive and bonding process

  • Heat welding and seam detailing for a seamless, hygienic finish

  • Best practices for floor layout, wall integration, and perimeter termination

  • Safety training specific to occupied spaces like kitchens and healthcare environments

  • Troubleshooting common site issues and understanding warranty conditions

Led by certified Eco-Grip trainers and supported by our own experienced supervisors, nearly two dozen UMI installers have now earned their qualifications, expanding our ability to serve clients across Southern California and beyond with confidence and speed.

Whether you’re planning a hospitality kitchen renovation, upgrading a rehab facility, or building out a fitness studio, our team is now fully equipped to deliver on the performance promise of Eco-Grip.

To learn more about this innovative product—or to schedule a site consultation

—contact Universal Metro at (562) 906-8484.

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Blastrac BMG 2200 machine

Unstoppable Performance: Why We Use the Blastrac BMG-2200 for Large-Scale Projects

Posted by Universal Metro on

Power Meets Precision: Blastrac BMG-2200 is our Go-To for Large-Scale Projects

When you’re tackling surface prep and polishing on projects over 10,000 square feet, efficiency, consistency, and quality aren’t just preferences—they’re requirements. That’s why Universal Metro Inc. relies on the Blastrac BMG-2200, a ride-on, planetary grinder built specifically for high-output performance.

What Is the Blastrac BMG-2200?

The BMG-2200 is a powerful, self-propelled grinding and polishing machine equipped with a dual-drive planetary system. Unlike walk-behind grinders, this ride-on unit is designed to tackle large surfaces faster, with more consistent results and less operator fatigue. It’s ideal for expansive commercial environments like:

  • Warehouses

  • Shopping centers

  • Transportation hubs

  • Manufacturing facilities

  • Higher education campuses

Key Features & Capabilities

2705 Built for Speed and Scale

The BMG-2200 is designed to handle large square footage in a fraction of the time. With multiple grinding heads and a ride-on configuration, it boosts productivity without compromising quality.

✅ Consistent, High-Quality Finishes

The planetary motion delivers even abrasion and polishing across the entire surface, ensuring a uniform sheen from wall to wall.

✅ Cleaner, Safer Worksites

An integrated dust collection system supports clean, compliant jobsites, making it ideal for environments with strict air quality or cleanliness requirements.

✅ Ergonomics That Matter

Ride-on operation reduces operator fatigue, allowing our crews to work longer shifts while maintaining precision.

Best Practices We Follow

At Universal Metro, equipment is only as effective as the crew behind it. That’s why we pair the BMG-2200 with expert training and proven protocols, including:

  • Surface Moisture Testing: Ensuring optimal conditions before grinding

  • Correct Grit Progression: To achieve the desired gloss level without over-polishing

  • Edge Integration: Managing edges and transitions for a seamless final result

  • Dust Control: Using HEPA-grade vacuums to contain silica dust

Is It Right for Your Project?

If you’re working on a high-traffic, large-format facility that demands durable, aesthetically pleasing polished concrete or a prepared substrate for additional finishes, the BMG-2200 can save time and money while delivering superior results.

Ready to Discuss Your Next Project?

Let’s talk. Our team can walk you through capabilities, timelines, and how this investment in equipment translates into long-term value for your facility.

👉 Contact Us to learn more about how the Blastrac BMG-2200 fits into our suite of advanced flooring solutions.

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Universal Metro’s Unique Installation of Carpet Tile Creates Fully Immersive 360 Experience at The Outer Realm Art Exhibit

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

How do you push the boundaries on a gallery space? For artist Michael Reeder, creating a fully immersive 360 experience with carpet tile was just the answer. In collaboration with Milliken’s national designers, their Los Angeles-based sales team, and our team of project managers and installation mechanics, Milliken’s DDI process was engaged to create a custom, patterned carpet tile that would extend the canvas beyond the showpiece to the floors and walls that surround it. To do so, the custom carpet tile needed to be as bold and as the artwork itself, and the installation had to be as precise and meticulous as the artist’s showcased work.

Continue reading “Universal Metro’s Unique Installation of Carpet Tile Creates Fully Immersive 360 Experience at The Outer Realm Art Exhibit” →