If your home has untreated or uncoated concrete floors, you may have to handle chipping, cracking, and crumbling. Over time, this damage can impact the aesthetics and safety of your home. As you prepare to address this damage and protect your floors, you may consider investing in a professional floor coating.

But, with so many options, like epoxy and Polyaspartic floor coatings, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your space. Each floor coating has its benefits, and it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each before making this investment decision. If you’re considering upgrading your concrete floors with an epoxy or Polyaspartic coating, keep reading to learn more about each. 

The History of Epoxy Floor Coatings

Epoxy floor coatings were first created in the 1930s but gained more regular use during World War II to protect concrete surfaces against heavy machinery. By the 1960s, it became more common to install these coatings in commercial spaces, including offices and retail spaces, especially for business owners who wanted a unique flooring option. 

By the 1980s, epoxy floor coatings became more popular in residential settings, especially in home garages. As epoxy floor coatings have evolved, they have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners. With non-slip additives, various colors, and advanced design options, they’re a beautiful addition to any space, from garages to basements, workshops, and more. 

The Pros and Cons of Epoxy Floor Coatings

Pros of Epoxy Coatings

• Fully Customizable: These floors come in various colors and finishes, making them a great choice for homeowners who want to customize their space. You may also be able to add logos and designs, which are perfect for any space. 
• Easy to Maintain: If caring for your untreated concrete floors has become a hassle, this is a thing of the past with epoxy coatings. They’re easy to clean, making them the perfect choice for busy families. 
• Affordable Option: While you may want to upgrade your floors, you might still want to upgrade on a budget. Epoxy coatings are less expensive than other options, which is perfect for budget-conscious buyers. 

Cons of Epoxy Coatings

• Yellow Over Time: One of the most significant disadvantages of epoxy floor coatings is the lack of UV resistance. These floors are prone to yellowing with frequent sun exposure, dramatically impacting your home’s aesthetic. 
• Long Curing: Another disadvantage of these coatings is the long curing time. These floors may require up to 72 hours of curing between layers, leading to a lengthy application process you may struggle to accommodate. 

The History of Polyaspartic Floor Coatings

Polyaspartic floor coatings were introduced to the market in the 1990s as a more advanced alternative to polyurea coatings. Originally, these floor coatings were used on bridges, piers, railcars, and ships. They were popular in these settings due to their advanced durability, withstanding more aggressive environments and protecting metal against corrosion and inclement weather conditions. 

However, they soon became a popular choice for coating the concrete floors in homes and commercial properties. There are many reasons why Polyaspartic floor coatings have become so popular in residential settings, including their increased strength, aesthetic appeal, and long-term durability. No matter why you might want to install this coating in your home, you can trust that they’re a great investment. 

The Pros and Cons of Polyaspartic Floor Coatings

Pros of Polyaspartic Coatings

• Fast Installation: Polyaspartic floor coatings are known for their 24-hour installation time. Whether installed in a garage, workshop, or commercial space, you can return to regular use sooner than with other options. 
• Increased Durability: If you need a floor coating that is strong enough to withstand chemical exposure, heavy drops, and accidental spills, Polyaspartic floor coatings are the way to go. 
• UV Resistance: Unlike epoxy coatings, Polyaspartic floor coatings are UV resistant. No matter where they’re installed, you won’t have to worry about frequent sun exposure impacting the appearance of these floors. 

Cons of Polyaspartic Coatings

• More Expensive: While they’re more durable than other coating options, Polyaspartic floor coatings are the more expensive upgrade option. This may be unappealing if you’re working on a limited budget. 
• Stronger Smell: During the installation process, Polyaspartic floor coatings may have a stronger odor. This odor may linger or make its way into your home, which can cause a headache as it airs out. 

Which is Right for Your Home? 

If you’re looking for a long-lasting, reliable floor coating for the concrete floors in your home or commercial space, Polyaspartic floor coatings are always the best choice. While they are often more expensive than their epoxy counterparts, they are far more durable and reliable. With an anticipated lifespan of 15 to 20 years, you won’t have to worry about reapplication for decades.

Additionally, these floors are fully customizable. With various floor coating colors and flake additives, you can trust that Polyaspartic floor coatings perfectly match your space. If you’re still on the fence, it’s best to contact your trusted floor coating professional. They can help you determine which coating fits the space’s use and ensure you feel your best about this major investment. 

Helping You Find Your Perfect Floor Coating

No matter what floor coating is right for your home, it is essential to work with a reliable, expert floor coating team. If you’re looking for a trustworthy floor coating professional in the Louisville area, turn to our team at Diamond Custom Coatings for support. With years of experience installing high-quality coatings, you can trust that we’ll do the same for you. Whether epoxy or Polyaspartic is right for you, our products will look their best and perform even better

If you’d like to learn more about our floor coating products or schedule an appointment to install a coating in your home, please contact us today.