Comparing Polished Concrete and Epoxy Coatings

Polished Concrete Floors

Polished concrete flooring is fast becoming a popular option in both residential and commercial buildings. But how does it compare to epoxy coated concrete in an industrial building?

Epoxy Floors

There are a number of reasons to choose epoxy floors. They can last up to 20 years with proper care, but this is with maintenance and an environment where abrasion is not a major concern. There are tons of options for colors and the surfaces can be anything from matte to shiny.

Installation of epoxy flooring does have one significant benefit. The surface does not usually require grinding before application of the epoxy.

Polished Concrete

Polished concrete floors are “installed” by progressively polishing the concrete surface with finer and finer grit materials until the desired finish is achieved. A very shiny floor may go up to a 3000 grit level from a 400 or less grit level. Colors or special finishes may also be added along the way.

There are many advantages to a polished concrete floor, with lower cost being a primary benefit. Since a coating is not being added to the surface, it will not lift or peel off. The surface is resistant to many chemicals, and oils, and will not stain. Caution does need to be used where acids are being handled, as they can etch the surface.

Polished concrete is popular in warehouse environments since it resists dents, chips, and tire marks. All while having a surface that meets or exceeds the OSHA suggested .5 coefficient of friction. The floor will also be flatter, and more level.

Installation can be faster, as there is no cure time on a polished concrete surface like there can be with epoxy coatings.

Environmentally concerned owners will be pleased that there are no volatile organic compounds in the polished concrete installation. Odors are eliminated, and so is the waste product of processed solid materials. Areas where polished concrete is installed also benefit from the shine on the flooring. The reflective surface can reduce lighting needs by up to 30% in some areas

Costs can increase for polished concrete installations when the floor is in bad shape and is not able to be easily repaired. Flooring that is not level may require quite a bit of work before it can be polished properly.

PennCoat, Inc. has been providing industrial painting, commercial painting, epoxy flooring, and polished concrete services for nearly 30 years.  Our experienced installers are trained and equipped with the proper knowledge and tools to ensure that every installation is installed efficiently and safely.  PennCoat, Inc. provides service to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware.  And we cover York, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Chester, Montgomery, Baltimore, Harrisburg, Dauphin, Bucks, Berks, and other counties in the surrounding area.