Before beginning any project, whether at your home, business, or industrial space, it is vital that you understand the specific needs of the space you are dealing with. Furthermore, it is important that you are equally aware of the various products specifically designed, suited, and engineered for those very needs—and, which products are not designed for your needs.
In the world of floor coating systems, there is no shortage of options to consider—however, not all available products are created equal, nor are they all well-suited to any given project. Indeed, in the world of construction, there is no one-size-fits-all product.
With that being said, a common question asked about coating systems has to do with the use of epoxy paints as opposed to epoxy coatings. So, what’s the difference? With respect to epoxy paints, it is important to realize that these products are not the same as epoxy coatings. The primary difference is that epoxy paint lacks the strength and durability of other, more reliable coating systems (such as epoxy or polyaspartic-based coatings). Unlike epoxy coatings, epoxy paints are typically used on projects that require less long-time durability/resistance, such as use on walls as opposed to floors that may experience heavy traffic or weathering.
Furthermore, epoxy paints differ from epoxy coatings in that they are not a two-part system specifically designed to penetrate your concrete and strengthen the integrity of your floor. Rather, most epoxy paints are just that: paint. Typically, an epoxy paint will be an acrylic-based product that may only have epoxy blended in, while nonetheless not being a true epoxy-based product. That being said, it is highly recommended that epoxy paints ARE NOT used to treat a traditional flooring system, whether it be a garage, basement, porch, or patio.
In order to secure the longevity, durability, and lasting aesthetic of your floor, it is always suggested that an epoxy coating system be preferred over and against epoxy paint. Indeed, there is hardly a comparison between the two products, as they serve completely different needs. Epoxy coatings are ideal for your flooring needs because they are not only stronger and more durable, but they are also long-lasting and concrete-penetrating, able to resist grease, chemicals, UV, salt, water, and sustained abrasion/wear and tear.
Though epoxy coatings are more costly when compared to epoxy paints, the lasting benefits are a worthy investment.
