Did you know polyurea has a tensile strength of 5,000 psi and a tear strength of over 500lbs/inch? These are just some reasons you should consider a polyurea coating over epoxy coatings for your garage floor. Epoxy floors may be slightly cheaper, but you pay for what you get.
Continue reading below to learn about the cons of epoxy floors.
Less Durable
Epoxy floors are less resistant and durable when it comes to a whole host of things. Most notably, epoxy is not ultraviolet (UV) light-resistant.
Most garage floors see sunlight, and an epoxy floor will discolor even after small amounts of UV exposure. Besides an ambering (yellow discoloration) of the floor, UV exposure can also decrease the glossiness or break down the coating.
Likewise, epoxy coatings are less flexible and therefore more likely to crack or break when things shift or temperatures change. Although tough, epoxy is less chemical and abrasion-resistant as well.
Application Process is a Hassle
One of the most significant drawbacks of epoxy flooring is the lengthy and time-consuming application process.
Epoxy cannot be applied to an area with any moisture. Even the slightest bit of moisture in the floor will cause the floor to lift off. If you live in a humid area or have a garage prone to moisture, epoxy flooring will not work for you.
Epoxy has a slow curing time and must completely dry between each layer. If you manage to dry and prepare an area, the application process for epoxy floors takes days. Your garage may be out of commission for up to 72 hours…just for the first coat!
On top of the long curing times, wet epoxy produces powerful and toxic fumes. Workers have to wear protective face masks and goggles for protection. Imagine 72 hours of dangerous fumes coming from your garage.
Slippery When Wet
Epoxy can become dangerously slippery when wet. Be cautious when walking on the floor if you bring rainwater, snow, or spill something in your garage. Epoxy is harder than concrete, and a fall could result in injury. Children and the elderly should be extra careful on slippery epoxy floors.
Epoxy Floors Alternatives
Epoxy floors come with some obvious disadvantages. But there are good alternatives. For example, polyurea coatings offer everything epoxy does and more.
Benefits of Polyurea Coating
Polyurea garage floors are a great alternative to epoxy. Polyurea is UV resistant and won’t discolor in the sun.
Another big advantage is the curing time for polyurea is a fraction of what epoxy takes. The faster curing time means fewer air bubbles form for a smoother, more seamless finish.
Getting Started
If you are ready to install a garage floor coating, you’ll want the best money can buy. Epoxy floors are an inferior option that will fade in the sun, take forever to install, and potentially cause falls.
Polyurea is the clear winner for your garage floor. Garage Force has you covered with quick and painless installation. Give us a call today!