4 Types Of Concrete Floor Coatings And Where To Apply Them
Posted on: 20 October 2021
Concrete is perhaps the most popular flooring material because of its affordability, durability, and ability to withstand high traffic. But plain concrete is not very visually appealing, and it is also vulnerable to moisture damage and color stains. Untreated concrete is also abrasive. Concrete floor coatings protect the surface against moisture infiltration, stains, and dust. It also makes concrete more comfortable to walk on and work on. What are the common concrete floor coating systems?
Epoxy Coating
Epoxy coating is very popular, especially in industrial settings with frequent spills of corrosive or strong-colored liquids. Epoxy floor coatings are common in warehouses, garages, and hangars. It withstands heavy traffic very well and is impact-resistant. Epoxy is also resistant to corrosive liquids and strong-colored dyes. Therefore, it is appropriate for floors that see light vehicle traffic, e.g., forklifts.
Epoxy concrete floor coatings are made by mixing two ingredients: epoxy resin and polyamine hardener. These compounds are mixed to make a plastic-like coating of great strength. Epoxy adheres well to concrete surfaces, but the surface must be prepared to remove dirt and contaminants. The coating cures and hardens in about a week.
Flake Concrete Coatings
Flake coatings are preferred for their visual appeal and fit both commercial and residential settings. Flake chips look like terrazzo, with a smooth, seamless finish without a high shine. It makes flake concrete floor coating ideal for floors where visual appeal is necessary, for example, in a bank.
Flake coatings are relatively easy to install. It starts with surface preparation, laying a prime coat, and finally broadcasting the flake chips. When installed properly, flake coating is very durable and attractive.
Acrylic Floor Coating
Acrylic concrete floor coatings are affordable and cure faster than other floor coatings. The floor is ready for use 1-2 hours after application of the coating. This floor coating is suitable for spaces with little traffic because the acrylic coating is less resistant than other coatings.
Acrylic coatings are made by mixing synthetic compounds called monomers in water. Different monomers have different properties in UV rays' protection, moisture resistance, and smoothness.
Polyurethane Floor Coatings
Polyurethane concrete floor coatings are suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic because they are softer to step on. They are commonly used in public spaces like malls and airports. Their flexibility also makes them suitable for areas that experience very low temperatures. In addition, their ability to absorb impact makes them resistant to impact forces and cracking.
Are you looking for ways to protect a floor and also give it better visual appeal? Talk to a flooring contractor about suitable concrete flooring coating systems.
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