Polyurea Vs. Epoxy Floor Coatings
If you need a new concrete floor for your garage, you may be wondering what floor coating is best for you. It can be hard to know where to start with so many options available.
Luckily, we here at Concrete Protective Solutions are here to help! We specialize in polishes and coatings that help improve your concrete floor's look, feel, and durability.
Several factors may dictate the type of floor coating we recommend, but the answer usually boils down to the two most popular options: polyurea or epoxy. Both have their benefits, drawbacks, and ideal use scenarios.
But before we can determine which is best for you, we want you to be able to make an informed decision. The following information is written to help you do just that.
What is a Polyurea Floor Coating?
Polyurea is a flexible and durable material that is a subcategory of polyurethane. Because of its unique properties, this synthetic substance is often used to coat some products, such as truck beds, liquid tanks, and of course, garage floors.
Polyurea functions by bonding to the moisture in your concrete floor, creating a barrier that protects against weather, scratches, and other day-to-day wear. It also produces little to no odor after installation.
It is one of the fastest-back-to-service drying time products on the market, typically setting 4-8 hours after application. After just 72 hours, you should be able to drive a car over it. Interestingly, polyurea is still resistant to drying from air exposure while in its container, making it easy to install in a smooth, even coat.
However, its fast dry time can pose problems for the inexperienced. That’s one of the many reasons why putting your trust in an established professional like us is so important. We’ll get the job done quickly and efficiently, saving you time, money, and the headache of poor installation.
What is an Epoxy Floor Coating?
Epoxy floor coatings consist of two components: a polyepoxide resin and a curative. During the application process, a flooring professional mixes the two materials and then immediately applies the mixture to your floor.
Mixing the two components causes a chemical reaction that results in a strong bond with one another. This bond is also responsible for the epoxy’s ability to adhere to the floor.
Epoxy coatings come in three main types: water-based, solvent-based, and 100% solid. A 100% solids epoxy is the thickest, most expensive option, but it is also the most durable. The other two are thinner, less durable, but also less expensive.
Regardless of type, epoxy floors typically require at least two coatings. Because epoxy cures slowly, each coat needs 10-12 hours to dry before the next one can be administered. When all is said and done, an epoxy job can take anywhere from a single day to a couple of weeks to complete depending on the size of the floor.
Epoxy often looks like paint and even comes in various colors like paint. However, it behaves more like glue, offering durability and protection. It can also provide a beautiful, modern look, making it a good choice for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other living spaces.
Polyurea Vs. Epoxy: Durability
When it comes to durability, polyurea provides better protection even when compared to the most robust epoxy material. This is mainly due to the it’s flexibility.
Because it’s flexible, polyurea will not crack or peel after installation. It can also withstand extreme temperatures or UV resistance, making it a better choice for a garage floor frequently exposed to the sun.
On the other hand, epoxy is known to have long-term issues when it comes to durability. For this reason, you should expect to replace or refinish an epoxy floor coating every five to ten years. A polyurea coat typically lasts for over 15 years with the proper care and maintenance.
Epoxy is also more susceptible to weather damage. Too much UV exposure can result in a common phenomenon known as “hot-tire pickup.” Hot epoxy can delaminate, causing the car tire to bond to the epoxy, peeling the coating from the concrete floor.
Polyurea Vs. Epoxy: Maintenance
Polyurea is highly resistant to physical impact, scrapes, and chemicals. As a result, most spills should not harm your coating. You can clean them up with a towel or mop.
The top coat of your polyurea coating should also stay glossy for years. However, it is recommended that you use a commercial product, such as wax or polish, to extend its lifespan. Even something as simple as occasionally mopping your flooring with water and a cleaning agent is enough to keep it in great condition for years to come.
Epoxy-coated floors are a little different. To keep your epoxy floor in good condition, be sure to remove any dirt or grit regularly. This will help prevent scratches, as well as having rocks or dirt embedded in your coat over time.
You will also need to clean up chemical spills quickly and efficiently. Things like gasoline, antifreeze and motor oil can change the appearance of your floor if they remain in contact with the coating for an extended period. Most epoxy floors can be cleaned with a few ounces of ammonia, a gallon of hot water, and a microfiber mop.
Polyurea Vs. Epoxy: Pricing
The final thing to consider is price. A general rule of thumb when purchasing floor coating (or anything for that matter) is the higher the price, the better the quality of the product.
In this case, epoxy may be a more economical option in the short term, but the more expensive polyurea might be your best option in the long run. If you want a more durable, UV-protected, and abrasion-resistant coating, you’ll have to spend a little more on the polyurea.
Your Flooring Expert in the Greater Portland Area
Ultimately, you should consult with a flooring expert like us before making any final decisions. While it changes on a case-by-case basis, Polyurea is often the best bet if you want better durability, easy maintenance, and a longer-lasting floor. That said, we’re happy to provide you with more information! Just give Concrete Protective Solutions a call at (503) 744-0290 for a complimentary consultation.
