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Why Most Concrete Coating Installers Use Polyaspartic Topcoats

May 14th, 2024 | 3 min. read

By Floor Shield Coatings

Introduction: Understanding Your Needs in Concrete Coatings

Have you ever noticed how some garage floors look brand new, years after installation, while others fade, crack, or peel? If you've been pondering this, you're not alone. Many homeowners and business owners ask, "How can I get a durable and visually appealing floor that stands the test of time?" Here at Floor Shield, we've explored numerous flooring solutions, and time and again, polyaspartic topcoats stand out. In this article, we'll dive deep into why polyaspartic is the top choice for concrete coatings and how it addresses common flooring concerns.

 

Urethane vs. Polyaspartic Concrete Coatings

Traditionally, urethane topcoats were the go-to for protecting concrete floors. They don't yellow, fade, and offer good resistance to the sun's UV rays. However, urethane's limitations in thickness and durability were always a challenge. It simply can't be applied thickly enough to support more robust, aesthetic finishes like flaked or textured floors.

 

Enter polyaspartic topcoats. These materials can be applied much thicker, providing the necessary depth to embed color flakes or other decorative touches without risking improper curing. More importantly, polyaspartics are completely UV stable and offer exceptional durability against wear and tear.

 

Technical Superiority of Polyaspartic Topcoats

  • Depth and Durability: Why Thickness Matters: Polyaspartic coatings can be applied in much thicker layers than traditional materials without compromising the curing process. This means they provide a solid, durable barrier that protects the underlying floor better than ever before. Thicker layers mean better coverage, fewer weak spots, and a longer-lasting finish.
  • Speed of Application: Saving Time with Polyaspartics: Time is money, especially in commercial settings where every hour of downtime impacts the bottom line. Polyaspartic coatings dry within just 6 to 8 hours, compared to the 24 to 48 hours needed for urethanes. This rapid curing time means less downtime for your business and quicker turnaround on new construction or renovations.
  • UV Resistance and Longevity: While urethanes resist UV degradation, they don't match the robust protection provided by polyaspartic coatings. These are designed to shield the decorative and functional aspects of your flooring from sun damage, ensuring the color and texture you choose remain vibrant and intact for years.

 

Practical Benefits of Polyaspartic Topcoats in Real-World Applications

  • Enhanced Aesthetics and Performance Imagine a showroom or a garage floor that not only looks fantastic but also resists oil stains, chemical spills, and the constant wear of foot traffic. Polyaspartic topcoats make this a reality, supporting high-performance finishes that are as functional as they are beautiful.
  • Case Studies: Success Stories of Polyaspartic Applications: One notable success story is the transformation of a large automotive dealership in Phoenix, Arizona. This dealership required a flooring solution that could withstand heavy traffic and frequent oil spills while maintaining a polished look that reflected its brand. Floor Shield was tasked with this challenge and opted for our 100% polyaspartic solution. The application was completed in just one weekend, minimizing disruption to the dealership's operations. Months later, the floor continues to resist stains and wear, maintaining a glossy, unblemished appearance that impresses customers and boosts the overall aesthetic of the dealership.

 

Choosing the Right Topcoat for Your Project

While polyaspartic topcoats are exceptional, they aren't the right fit for every situation. For projects where budget constraints are tight, or the longevity of the coating isn't critical, other options might be more suitable. Here at Floor Shield, we pride ourselves on guiding our customers through these decisions, ensuring they get the best solution for their specific needs.

 

The Future of Concrete Coatings: Trends and Innovations

The concrete coating industry is ever-evolving, with new technologies and materials emerging regularly. Polyaspartic coatings are at the forefront of this innovation, providing solutions that are not only effective today but promise to adapt and improve as new challenges arise.

 

Conclusion: Why Polyaspartic Topcoats Are the Preferred Choice for Professionals

To wrap up, polyaspartic topcoats offer unmatched benefits in terms of durability, aesthetic flexibility, and UV resistance. At Floor Shield, we understand the importance of investing in a flooring solution that offers long-term value. While our products and services might not be for everyone, for those seeking a reliable, long-lasting, and beautiful floor, polyaspartic topcoats are the clear winner. We hope this guide has provided you with the comprehensive insight needed to make a confident decision about your flooring needs.

 

In this exploration of concrete coatings, it's clear why polyaspartic topcoats have become the go-to choice for professionals seeking the best in performance.

 

If you’d like a free, no-obligation quote for a Floor Shield 100% polyaspartic coating, fill out the form below.

 

Floor Shield Coatings