Epoxy is a common choice for garage floors due to its affordability and the perception that it is an easy do-it-yourself application. However, it is important to consider the downsides of epoxy before making a decision.
One of the major disadvantages of epoxy is the time and effort required for installation. Unlike other coatings, epoxy typically takes a few days to install properly. This includes thoroughly prepping the concrete surface, which can be a tedious and time-consuming process. Additionally, most epoxy products do not come with a warranty, leaving users without any guarantees if issues arise.
One common frustration among epoxy users is the problem of hot tire pick-up. On hot summer days, the heat from the tires can cause the epoxy film to rip away, leaving behind a delaminated tire impression. This not only damages the appearance of the floor but also compromises its durability.
Furthermore, epoxy is not completely resistant to staining. While it may offer some protection, it can still be discolored or damaged by chemicals such as salt, street de-icing fluids, oil, and gas. This limits its ability to maintain a clean and pristine appearance over time.
Delamination is another frequent issue with epoxy coatings. If the concrete surface is not properly prepared, the epoxy will delaminate and wear away quickly. This is a common problem with many concrete coatings, not just epoxy.
In contrast to epoxy, polyurea offers several advantages as a garage floor coating. One significant advantage is the fast cure times of polyurea, allowing for a one-day application process. It can be walked on in as little as 4-8 hours and driven on within 24 hours. This quick curing time minimizes downtime and inconvenience.
Polyurea is also highly resistant to harsh chemicals, including gas, oil, and salt. Its superior durability makes it 20 times stronger than epoxy, ensuring long-lasting protection for the garage floor. Additionally, polyurea is 98% more flexible than epoxy, which means it will not crack or peel over time.
Another benefit of polyurea is its low environmental impact. It has no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and little to no odor, making it a safer and more eco-friendly choice than other coatings.
Polyurea is a versatile coating used in various industrial applications, such as pipe coatings, water treatment plants, and sewer linings. Its popularity in garage floor coatings is due to its fast cure times, flexibility, abrasion resistance, and wide range of color options.
ArmorThane offers a hybrid product for garage floor coatings that combines the benefits of polyaspartic polyurea and color flakes. This two-component, aliphatic polyaspartic polymer effectively bonds to the concrete, providing a durable base for the color flakes. A sealing polyurea layer is then applied to ensure long-lasting protection and a visually appealing finish.
If you are considering a polyurea coating for your garage floor, ArmorThane is a highly recommended company. With their extensive experience and expertise in polyurea applications, they can provide the best solutions for your needs. Whether you need assistance with installation or have questions about maintenance, their team is available to help you every step of the way. Trust ArmorThane for all your polyurea needs and enjoy the benefits of a high-quality garage floor coating.
