Thinking about getting your concrete floor coated but aren’t sure what your options are? Let’s compare the two most popular options, epoxy and polyurea/polyaspartic, and see the pros and cons of each.
If your concrete floor is cracked, stained and dirty, you’re probably looking to coat it or replace it. Concrete coatings offer many benefits like increased durability, improved aesthetics and an added layer of protection on your floor. If you’re looking to have concrete coatings installed on concrete floor(s), it’s best to do some research to figure out which product is best suited for your needs and wants.
Previously, epoxy has been the go to option for concrete floor coatings; however in recent years its use has gone down significantly. In recent years, polyurea/polyaspartic coatings have been becoming more popular due to their fast install time and durability. So what exactly are epoxy and polyurea/polyaspartic coatings and how do they compare? Let’s compare their features and characteristics below!
Epoxy floor coatings consist of epoxy resin and polyamine harder. When the epoxy dries, it seals the concrete and covers it with a thick, hard and shiny finish. Due to the fact that it is extremely hard (and thick), epoxy does not move with the concrete when it moves with the temperature changes. This causes the epoxy to crack and peel over time. In addition, epoxy alone is not UV resistant so it should not be applied in areas that are exposed to sunlight as it will discolor.
Since epoxy is thicker, its cure time is 2-3x longer. A typical cure time for an epoxy floor is 2-3 days (cure time can be affected by temperature, humidity, etc.). Due to its slow dry time, you have a large window of time to apply the product as well as fix any issues before it cures so it is DIY friendly.
What are Polyurea/Polyaspartic Coatings?
Polyurea/polyurea coatings consist of a 3 layer system of a base coat, vinyl flake coat, and top coat. They are 4x stronger than epoxy and much more durable. They are very flexible which allows them to move with the concrete as it expands and contracts during temperature changes. Although they are very thin, polyurea/polyaspartic coatings are still remarkably strong, impact and scratch resistant, and resistant to chemicals up to battery acid.
Polyurea/polyaspartic floor coatings have a very fast cure time so they can be installed in as little as one day. This makes them an ideal option for not only homeowners looking to get their garage, basement, patio or porch coated, but for business owners who are looking for a durable product with a quick turnaround time. Unfortunately this does not make for a good option for DIY projects as their fast cure time leaves little to no room for mistakes. Did you notice that we mentioned porches and patios? That’s right, their UV resistant qualities allow them to be applied outdoors without yellowing or discoloration making them an ideal flooring option for all outdoor concrete surfaces.
Which is better, Epoxy or Polyurea/Polyaspartics?
After breaking it down, it is clear that polyurea/polyaspartic concrete coatings are better than epoxy coatings in every category for all concrete applications. Even when you factor in pricing, epoxy will require replacement much faster than a polyurea/polyaspartic floor and eventually exceed it in cost as well.
Many of you may ask why epoxy flooring is still used today since polyurea/polyaspartic coatings are so much better. As we mentioned before, polyurea/polyaspartics are typically only offered with the full broadcast of flake so if someone is looking for a solid colored floor they may opt for the epoxy option. Another instance that someone may use epoxy over polyurea/polyaspartic coatings for their floor is the do it yourselfers. Since polyurea/polyaspartic coatings are not DIY friendly, if someone is insistent on doing it themselves then they are forced to use an epoxy as they are easier to use.
How To Get Concrete Coatings In North Carolina
Here at TAGG Concrete Coatings, we offer top of the line products and services for all of our customers. We strive for perfection with every project and do not cut corners on anything. When you choose TAGG Concrete Coatings to install your polyurea/polyaspartic concrete coatings, you are hiring a company that not only takes pride in their work but strives for customer satisfaction as well.
To schedule your free, no obligation consultation give us a call today or fill out our easy to fill out online form. One of our representatives will contact you to schedule your appointment or answer any questions you may have.
(919) 439-8879
1423 Wait Ave. Unit #34DD Wake Forest, NC 28269
