The choice of ideal flooring is always confusing because of the variety of options available. Nowadays, flooring is being replaced with floor coatings like epoxy, polyurethane, and polyaspartic. In this post by Fixing Expert, we’ll take a closer look at polyaspartic floor coatings and why they might be the best choice for your flooring needs.
Polyaspartic Coating vs. Traditional Flooring: Which is the Better Choice?
Polyaspartic coating when compared with traditional flooring varieties offers a lot of amazing benefits. That’s why more and more people are shifting towards polyaspartic floor coatings.
What Are Polyaspartic Floor Coatings?
Polyaspartic coating is a relatively new option that has gained popularity in recent years. It is a type of industrial-grade coating that is commonly used on concrete floors in garages, warehouses, and commercial spaces.
Polyaspartic coating is known for its durability and resistance to chemicals, abrasions, and UV rays. It also has a fast curing time, which means that the floor can be ready to use in as little as one day.
Why Are Polyaspartic Coatings Preferred Over Traditional Floorings?
In comparison, there are a lot of factors to consider. Durability is the first and foremost factor and polyaspartic coatings offer absolute resistance to wear and tear. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, chemicals, and UV rays without fading or chipping. Traditional flooring options, on the other hand, may require more maintenance and repairs over time.
Speaking of the installation time, polyaspartic coating has a fast curing time, which means that the installation process can be completed in as little as one day. Conventional flooring options require installation expertise and more time for proper settling.
Coming toward the pricing factor, polyaspartic coatings are more expensive upfront. However, features like sheer durability and low-maintenance make it a cost-effective option compared to standard flooring choices.
The Comparison Of Polyaspartic Floor Coatings With Traditional Flooring
While polyaspartic coatings may seem to be a better option, this can only be idealized after comparison with various traditional flooring options. Below, we’ve explained briefly yet comprehensively all the key features of various floorings in comparison to polyaspartic coatings.
1. Polyurea Floor Coatings
For high-traffic areas like garages and warehouses, polyaspartic coatings are the ideal option because of their exceptional durability and resistance.
To compensate for flooring movements or expansions, polyurea coatings are the best choice because of their flexibility. Polyurea coatings tend to be slightly more expensive than polyaspartic coatings. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences.
2. Epoxy Floor Coatings
Polyaspartic floor coatings are a faster and more flexible option than epoxy coatings. They cure quickly and are more resistant to UV rays and chemicals, making them ideal for outdoor or industrial use. Epoxy coatings offer a hard surface and are more affordable, making them suitable for indoor residential and commercial use.
3. Concrete Flooring
Polyaspartic coatings are a great alternative to heavy concrete flooring. They are more durable and resistant to chemicals, abrasions, and UV rays than concrete flooring. Plus, they also have a quick application procedure, which reduces downtime for businesses.
Last but not least, polyaspartic coatings offer customizable decorative options for homes and commercial spaces. And that’s not available with concrete flooring.
4. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are traditional yet a popular choice for residential interiors due to their durability, easy maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Ceramic tiles require precise fitting and greater time for installation.
In contrast, polyaspartic coatings have chemical resistance and can be applied pretty quickly. However, these floor coatings lack the intricate patterns usually found on tiles and therefore, may not match up with the extent of aesthetic appeal offered by tiles.
5. Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is a cost-effective and versatile option suitable for commercial and residential settings. It’s available in a wide range of styles and colors for ideal choices. Plus, you’ll find it to be a durable and easy-maintenance flooring type as well.
However, it can show signs of wear and tear over time and may not hold up as well in high-traffic or heavy-use environments.
Polyaspartic coatings as already mentioned can easily withstand high-traffic, and therefore, are suitable for commercial and industrial settings. The only reason for not applying these floor coatings in residential settings is the lack of that home aesthetic sense.
The Perks & Pros Of Polyaspartic Concrete Floor Coatings
Polyaspartic concrete coatings are a type of protective coating. They are made from a polyaspartic ester resin, which is a type of polyurethane. These coatings are incredibly durable and long-lasting, offering excellent protection against abrasion, impact, and chemicals.
They also have a high gloss finish that can enhance the appearance of any space thus, making them ideal for decorative concrete even in high-traffic areas.
Some polyaspartic concrete coatings can be enhanced with additives to provide even greater corrosion protection. For example, coatings that contain zinc can help prevent corrosion of the underlying substrate.
Polyaspartic concrete coatings cure within just a few hours, depending on the specific formulation and environmental conditions. This means that the coated surfaces can be back in use on the same day, minimizing downtime and disruption to business operations.
The Downside Of Polyaspartic Concrete Floor Coatings
While these coatings offer many advantages, it is important to consider the potential disadvantages when evaluating their suitability for a specific application.
- Cost: These coatings are typically more expensive than traditional flooring options.
- Skill Level Required: They require specialized equipment and a certain level of expertise and therefore, are not a DIY-friendly solution.
- Limited Working Time: These coatings have to be applied quickly and carefully to ensure proper coverage and adhesion.
- Substrate Required: Polyaspartic coatings require a clean, properly prepared substrate to achieve optimal adhesion and performance.
- Temperature Sensitivity: These floor coatings are also sensitive to temperature and humidity and therefore, high temperature may affect their performance and curing time.
- Slippery Surfaces: Polyaspartic floor coatings are slippery and the degree of slipperiness depends on the type and texture of the coating. Plus, a high level of foot traffic in that area may also cause the floor-coated surface to be slippery.
Applications Of Polyaspartic Floor Coatings
Mostly, these floor coatings are favored for commercial and industrial applications, however, there are residential applications as well.
Residential Applications
Not inside the house, obviously! However, polyaspartic floor coatings are suitable and recommended for basements and garages because of their durability and resistance to chemicals.
Plus, poolsides and patios may also benefit from these floor coatings because there’s no susceptibility to water damage.
Commercial & Industrial Coatings
From large-scale manufacturing units to warehouses and distribution centers, polyaspartic floor coatings are equally beneficial and highly recommended options. Plus, these coatings are ideal for application in storage facilities as well.
Additionally, automotive service centers and retail spaces are preferred areas for applications of polyaspartic floor coatings.
Some Common Problems With Polyaspartic & Polyurea Coatings
Sometimes, even professionals face difficulty with the application of polyaspartic and polyurea coatings. There are common problems associated with both these floor coatings such as:
- Moisture Problems, such as blistering, bubbling, or delamination, occur if the surface is not properly prepared or if moisture is trapped beneath the coating.
- Adhesion Issues occur if the surface is not properly cleaned or if the coating is not applied correctly.
- UV Degradation can cause discoloration or fading of the coating, particularly in areas with high levels of sunlight exposure.
- Cracking/Chipping occurs if the coating is exposed to excessive wear and tear or if it is not properly maintained.
- Air Bubbles form during the application, which can create an uneven surface and reduce the coating’s overall durability and appearance.
FAQs–Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where To Buy Polyaspartic Floor Coatings In Dubai?
To buy the best quality yet affordable polyaspartic floor coatings in Dubai, you can trust Fixing Expert eyes wide shut. Our skilled professionals can apply these coatings flawlessly to help you enjoy lifelong benefits.
2. What Is The Difference Between Polyaspartic And Epoxy Floor Coatings?
Polyaspartic floor coatings cure faster, have greater stability, and are more flexible than epoxy coatings.
3. How Long Do Polyaspartic Floor Coatings Last?
The best quality polyaspartic floor coatings may last up to 20 years or more with proper installation and maintenance.
4. How Do I Clean Polyaspartic Floor Coatings?
You can clean these floor coatings with a pH-neutral cleaner using a microfiber mop or soft-bristled brush. Alternatively, a combination of soap and water can also be used.
5. Can I Install Polyaspartic Floor Coatings Myself?
Yes, it’s possible yet it’s recommended to leave the application of polyaspartic coatings to the professionals. Because it takes specialized equipment and expertise for precise applications.
6. How Are Polyaspartic Floor Coatings Applied?
Polyaspartic floor coatings are applied by surface preparation, crack, and joint repair followed by the application of the primer, base coat, intermediate coat, and top coat. At last, a second top coat additive layer is optional.
7. Are Polyaspartic Floor Coatings Safe For The Environment?
They are low in VOC emissions, do not produce harmful fumes during installation, and are often made with eco-friendly materials thus, considered safe for the environment.
As the foremost interior fitout company in Dubai, Fixingexpert has established itself as a trusted provider of top-quality interior solutions. Our dedicated team is always on hand to meet your interior decor needs.
