Concrete Staining Or Epoxy Coating: Which Is Right For You? | (2024)

FAQs

Concrete Staining Or Epoxy Coating: Which Is Right For You? |? ›

If you want to simply change the color of your concrete and add minimal protection, experts suggest a water or acid-based stain. If you want to add something stronger, durable, and just as stylish, you should consider an epoxy coating.

Epoxy covering is an excellent choice if you need to cover up damage; thus, many commercial work environments opt for epoxy. If you want to improve the look and texture of a concrete surface, stain it to look like natural stone, and achieve a solid, long-lasting color.

Affordability. Applying an epoxy floor coating will cost between $3 and $10 per square foot, which is quite affordable than the $5- $12 price tag that a high-end concrete staining will cost you.

So we'll be looking at the general benefits that these share, either when used separately or together. Epoxy and urethane coatings tend to be more expensive than a simple concrete sealer, but they offer better protection.

Lack of innate durability is a big drawback for water-based stains. Because the color is created by pigment settled in the pores of concrete, it is subject to fading. While the pigments are UV-stable, they can wash out over time with exposure to water.

The longevity of an epoxy floor system will vary based on thickness, use and maintenance. Typically, epoxy floors last between 10 and 20 years; much longer than a painted concrete floor, which will chip and wear quickly in high-traffic areas.

If properly taken care of, Concrete dye will last as long as the concrete itself. However, projects using Concrete Dye MUST be sealed every 1-2 years depending on exposure to retain the original color. If not properly cared for, the color could significantly fade requiring an additional application of dye.

Epoxy Flooring Price Per Square Metre

For a basic two coat application over a prepared concrete surface, expect to pay between $30-$40 per square metre for materials and labour. However, many homeowners and businesses opt for a more decorative look with coloured, flaked or metallic finishes.

It comes as no surprise that stamped concrete is typically the most expensive type of finish.

Polyaspartic Floor Coatings

These floor coatings come with a lifetime warranty because that's how long they're expected to last you. Polyaspartic floor coatings are very damage resistant and strong. They won't chip, there won't be any hot-tire pick up, they're resistant to abrasion.

Is there something better than epoxy? ›

Because polyurea is more durable than epoxy, it has a life expectancy of about 15 years. (At Innovative Concrete we offer exclusive 15-year warranties.) Just think, one application in 15 years with polyurea and 3 to 4 applications in the same time period with epoxy.

Yes, epoxy coatings can be used on outdoor concrete surfaces, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind: UV Resistance: Traditional epoxy coatings are not highly UV-resistant, meaning they can degrade when exposed to sunlight over time.

Epoxy is the most durable concrete finish and can be poured into cracks and crevices to help level the surface. But epoxy also is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to create unique hues and designs on your floor so you can even make a concrete floor look pretty.

The most popular colors for concrete stains are earth tones including browns, tans, and terra cottas. Gray, green and blue hues are also possible. Color choice ultimately depends on the desired appearance for the project.

By staining your concrete flooring, you can transform even the most industrial-looking concrete floors into a versatile look that's fit for all kinds of home styles. From outdoor patio spaces to living rooms, staining your concrete may be that secret ingredient that makes your flooring perfect for your home.

Water-based Stains

These stains are some of the best cement stain options and can be used to produce a variety of looks, from solid colors to multiple textures and tones. They work best on porous surfaces like cement, concrete, masonry and more. Water-based stains offer a myriad of benefits we'll go through shortly!

If an oil-based stain is used, you must apply a clear oil-based polyurethane to seal the surface before applying a seal coat of our UltraClear table top epoxy. If you pour epoxy directly onto the oil-based stain before it has dried completely, the epoxy may end up not bonding properly and could peel off months later.

Clean Concrete Floor

Before applying the coating, new concrete must cure for 30 days. With a scraper, wire brush or stiff bristle brush, remove all dirt, wax, dust, mildew and loose or separating material.