Polyurea vs. Epoxy Floor Coatings

Concrete that is showing signs of cracking, staining, chipping, or other wear and tear likely requires a new, durable coating. There are various types of concrete floor coating options available. At GCI, we are your source for exceptional quality concrete floor coatings that provide premium floor protection. Below we discuss two popular types of floor coatings – epoxy and polyurea.

Polyurea Floor Coatings

Polyurea is a synthetic, flexible material that is used to protect various products and surfaces, including concrete floors. It bonds to concrete quickly and effectively while delivering smooth and essentially impermeable surface that protects the floor from water damage, impact, chemicals, sunlight, and heat.

Polyurea wins over epoxy when it comes to flexibility and durability. Its flexibility allows it to move with concrete when significant temperature changes or shifts in weight occur. Polyurea coatings are typical more expensive than epoxy coatings.

Polyurea cures very fast, which is either a positive or negative characteristic depending on the situation. If you need to undo something, it can be negative. Using a professional contractor experienced in applying polyurea floor coatings is the best way to prevent this issue.

Epoxy Floor Coatings

Epoxy coatings function more like a glue than a paint, but they come in various colors just like paint. These coatings are designed to protect surfaces from various types of damage. A thick epoxy coating adheres strongly to a concrete surface and protects from damage due to water, impact, vapor transmission, chemicals, thermal shock, and more.

Epoxy floor coating are offered in three major types – 100% solids, solvent-based, and water-based. The 100% solids epoxy option is the most expensive, thickest, and most durable option. The other two are thinner, less durable, and less expensive, but still work effectively when installed correctly. Installation takes about one day with drying and curing taking a couple of days at the most.

Which is the Better Choice?

The best floor coating to use will depend on various factors, such as the type of floor and its function, aesthetic tastes, cost considerations, and more.

To learn about the floor coatings we offer for customers in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area, give us a call today at 763.559.8732 or leave a message to speak with one of our team members.