Table of Contents
Epoxy and Polyaspartic
Epoxy and polyaspartic are protective surface materials that can offer concrete a good defense against harsh conditions such as stains, wear and tear and even harsh chemical spills. These materials are aesthetically pleasing, but even better, they provide a surface with a long-lasting coating that is easy to clean.
However, each of these coatings is specially formulated such that one differs from the next, which makes other aspects such as application different as well. Below, we discuss everything you need to know about these two types of floors. By helping you distinguish between these two, you can make an informed decision about the type of floor you can use for your business.
All about Epoxy
Epoxy has been in existence for a relatively long time. From as early as the 1930s.epoxy has been used as the ultimate form of floor protection since then. Epoxy is known for its flexibility, even in environments that are exposed to extreme temperature changes and UV rays. However, it is not uncommon to see cases of epoxy floors turning yellow over time as a result of exposure to UV rays. Furthermore, these floors can crack and separate as a result of freeze and thaw cycles that cause concrete to expand and contract.
Therefore, for the coat to adhere to the floor and cure properly, experts apply epoxy at internal temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. An application of epoxy will consist of a primer, base coat, and a double surface coating of polyurethane. This solution is slip-free and chemical resistant, so it is commonly used in areas such as garages. Since it is highly customizable and you can use both matte and glossy finishes, it can also be used in a variety of environments.
Always make sure to find an experienced commercial epoxy contractor to save you time & money.
All about Polyaspartic Floor Coating
If you run a business that runs a business where aesthetics matters, epoxy could be a good choice. However, polyaspartic can be a better decision, especially in the long term because it does not stain as a result of UV-ray contact. Furthermore, epoxy is long-lasting and will protect your floor just like epoxy would. This material is anticorrosive, making it a good option for outdoor structures and areas with metals. This material can be used to coat high-impact indoor floors such as industrial areas that may experience oil and chemical spillages.
This product was developed in the 90s and can be tweaked by manufacturers so it has desirable traits such as quick dry times and limited gas emission post application. Therefore, these properties make polyaspartic more versatile compared to the more traditional epoxy.
Just like epoxy, polyaspartic coating is clear and glossy. Therefore, it resembles a wet concrete floor. Those who would like a more versatile floor can add color to the polyaspartic floor coating. Therefore, it is not uncommon to find this type of floor decorated with chips. These chips are distributed across the surface of the floor while it’s still wet. If you have a big space and need help, make sure to find reliable & reputable flooring contractors that have plenty of experience to guide you in the right direction.
Applying Epoxy and Polyaspartic Floor Coating
Epoxy application needs a compatible concrete floor. If there is excessive moisture coming up from the concrete, the result will be a break in the bond between the coating and floor. Usually, the moisture levels are tested by taping down a plastic bag on the ground and checking on it after a day. If there is moisture when you peel the plastic off the ground, you will need to install a moisture barrier on the concrete before you start the application of the epoxy.
The application is done using an extended paint roller. You can start with the edges of the area and then fill the rest of the space with a roller. During this time, you will need to use protective breathing fear as the vapors emitted by epoxy can be powerful.
Applying epoxy manually takes time. However, the coating will not dry in the bucket before application. The coating is designed to have a long pot life so it can spend a significant amount of time in an open bucket without drying up.
Due to its long pot life, you can expect that epoxy will take a significantly long time to dry. The first coat will take about 16 hours to dry before it’s ready to take the second later. However, you need to look at the manufacturer’s instructions to see how long you need to take before the second application. When the second layer is ready, you will decide whether you want to include non-skid granules. It is advisable to include these granules as they prevent the surface from being slippery. Then, you will give it another 16 hours to dry. Then you will need to add a top coat of polyurethane if you desire so. After this, you will wait for the last layer to dry and the floor will be ready for use. It may take up to a week for the epoxy to be ready.
The first step you will take while working with polyaspartic floor coating is to test for moisture as you would do with epoxy.
Polyaspartic coating looks clear like water and is almost odorless. Keep in mind that the application is fast and that polyaspartic coating dries quickly.
The application involves pouring the polyaspartic coating across the floor and then spreading it with a roller or squeegee. You can look at the manufacturer’s instructions to ascertain the recommended thickness of the layer. The first layer dries in less than an hour and the floor will be ready for the second coat.
The second layer includes non-skid traction materials for those who would like to use it. However, we recommend that clients use these materials as polyaspartic coating is more slippery than epoxy. Furthermore, polyaspartic coating has a shorter pot life compared to epoxy. Therefore, you need to prepare yourself completely for the application before the start of the project. Any unnecessary delays may lead to a dried-up bucket before the completion of the application. As a result, many people end up hiring professionals for this reason.
Comparison Between the Two Types of Coating
The biggest difference between polyaspartic coating and epoxy is that the former can be used as a topcoat or a complete flooring system on its own. Since this coating dries fast, it will allow for a faster return to work compared to epoxy which will need up to 48 to 72 hours to completely dry.
Winner: Polyaspartic
When it comes to durability, polyaspartic coating wins. While both materials are long-lasting, polyaspartic is the better option because it will not suffer abrasion as epoxy eventually will. Furthermore, epoxy is more flexible and durable.
Winner: Polyaspartic
When it comes to costs, epoxy takes the day. Polyaspartic coats are more expensive than epoxy. What makes the cost even higher is that you will need to hire a professional installer to help with the application since the material has a short pot life and any delays may mean higher costs at the end of the day.
Overall, epoxy is cheaper but if you want beautiful, professional, long-lasting results then Polyaspartic floor coatings are the way to go.
Winner: Epoxy
Polyaspartic is designed to dry in less than an hour per coat. This contrasts epoxy that can take up to 16 hours for one coat to dry. If you would like to get back to work as soon as possible, you would be better off choosing polyaspartic floor coating over epoxy.
Winner: Polyaspartic
Epoxy affects the air quality in a space as there will be off-gassing. Therefore, people who are applying epoxy are advised to wear protective breathing gear. On the other hand, there is no off-gassing when you use polyaspartic coating. In this category, polyaspartic coating is the definite winner.
Winner: Polyaspartic
Polyaspartic coating is waterlike and even after application, it still remains smooth, which poses a slipping risk. It is highly recommended that you add traction additives to your polyaspartic coating to counter the risk of slipping. On the other hand, epoxy is not as slippery as polyaspartic. However, it is still possible to add traction additives.
Winner: Tie
If you are looking for an option that offers high UV stability, polyaspartic coating will be a good choice for you because the material will not yellow or fade, even after years of extensive exposure to the sunlight. On the other hand, some epoxy products are likely to yellow after years of exposure to the sun.
Winner: Polyaspartic
You can apply polyaspartic with a roller or squeegee. However, this is not a good time to be exploring DIY due to polyaspartic’s short pot life. Only a professional can achieve the required accuracy to prevent the polyaspartic coating from drying too soon after exposure. On the other hand, epoxy is applied using a roller brush and a layer of epoxy can take up to 16 hours for one layer to dry. This means you will need approximately two to three days before the floor is ready.
Winner: Epoxy
Conclusion: Epoxy or Polyaspartic?
Epoxy and polyaspartic are both materials that have been used to coat floors. However, some people prefer one over the other. If you have been having a hard time deciding which of these materials you want to use, the write-up above answers all your questions. We have outlined the similarities and even more differences between these coatings to help you make an informed choice.
Overall, we believe that Polyaspartic is the best option. Although the upfront cost might be more, it would be cheaper in the long run due to Polyaspartic coatings being:
- UV Resistant
- Stain Resistant
- 20x Stronger Than Epoxy
- Insanely Quick Dry Time
- Longer Life
- Scratch & Tear Resistant
- Have A Brilliant & Bright Shine
If you’re looking for some help transforming your garage, industrial space, or business office with our flooring services call us today (954) 408-2959.
