Unfortunately, there’s no one industrial floor paint that will suit every location. While many industrial facilities have things like heavy foot traffic in common, each has unique needs.
For example, concrete floors might need protection against harsh chemicals in a tire manufacturing plant, while a car manufacturer might require flooring that can bear the weight of heavy machinery.
Before comparing floor coating systems, it’s wise to consider what abuse your industrial flooring will take. In this article, we’ll go through the most popular industrial coatings and where they work the best.
Epoxy Paint Industrial Coatings
Many people use the terms epoxy paint and epoxy resin interchangeably; however, they are very different. Epoxy industrial floor paint is a high-quality compound you can apply to various surfaces.
Like epoxy resin, it is hard-wearing, easy to maintain, and simple to clean. It contains acrylic paint to allow for a wide range of customizable colors. The epoxy within the paint provides a high-gloss effect.
The paint dries relatively quickly, making it a good choice when you need fast results. The primary difference between epoxy paint and resin is the level of epoxy content. Epoxy resin is the stronger of the two, but the paint is slightly more versatile.
Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin has a thermoset plastic base and will not harden unless mixed with the correct polyamide catalyst. The base takes a few days to cure completely, but with the correct topcoat, it is move-in ready within 24 to 48 hours.
The application of epoxy resin requires a specialist. The contractor first roughens the concrete by grinding away the dirty surface. They then apply the resin, cast flakes if necessary, and level it out before leaving it to cure.
The epoxy settles into a smooth continuous surface without any sign of brush strokes, and you can select a high-gloss or matte finish. Unlike industrial floor paint, the result is a perfectly sealed floor with an even layer of epoxy.
The resin bonds to the concrete, meaning it won’t chip, flake, or peel off. It’s:
- Easy to clean
- Waterproof
- Heat-resistant
- Durable
- Customizable
- Low maintenance
- Scratch and scuff resistant
It’s also a highly versatile medium into which you can incorporate various additives. For example, adding different aggregates improves traction on the surface. Pigments and metallic elements add interest and a show-stopping finish.
You may select various colors and flake combinations to create a custom look for your property. You may also increase the durability of the flooring by adding a polyaspartic coating over the top of the resin.
The downside is that you cannot use epoxy resin on walls. The initial capital outlay is pricey, but you’ll recoup the cost by saving on maintenance and replacement costs over several years.
Acrylic Paint
Painting directly onto the concrete is not advisable because it is so porous. Getting an even finish is somewhat tricky because of the concrete’s permeability and because it’s a conduit for moisture from its surroundings.
You must choose a specialist product if you’re considering using acrylics as your industrial floor paint. Paints for this purpose contain compounds that help the color expand and contract as the concrete does.
While these paints are more expensive initially, they produce long-lasting results. Standard paints will chip and peel very quickly, meaning that you’ll face a revamp again before long.
However, even when you do use specialist products, be prepared for maintenance every couple of years. Unlike epoxy, acrylic paint does not chemically bond with the surface and will peel and crack eventually.
Epoxy Terrazzo Flooring
We’re sneaking this one in here because it’s more of a covering than a paint. However, it’s worthy of inclusion because it is attractive. For epoxy terrazzo flooring, contractors create a mosaic-like effect using several additives.
These additives include a diverse range of substances such as small bits of marble and granite, quartz for shine, recycled glass, synthetic flakes, and even mother of pearl.
The result is a mishmash of colors and textures that creates a beautiful surface. Using this technique, it’s possible to create patterns, designs, and logos in a most aesthetically-pleasing manner.
It’s also possible to replicate the look of more expensive materials at a fraction of the cost.
Speak to Con-tek Floors, Your Flooring Specialists
Now that you understand more about industrial floor paint, it’s time to get your free estimate. Call our friendly team at (970) 632-0648 to schedule an on-site visit, where our inspector will discuss your options and provide you with an accurate quote.