Concrete on its own is an incredibly durable and versatile flooring material that makes it a great option for both commercial and residential use. On its own, concrete flooring is pretty strong but will be subject to cracking or chipping. But when sealed or finished with epoxy your concrete flooring will stand the test of time.

It is always recommended that concrete surfaces, whether residential or commercial, interior or exterior be treated with some sort of sealant or epoxy coating in order to receive the full benefits of its durability. 

This is where many run into the questions, however, which is best? A concrete sealer or an epoxy floor coating?

The answer, well that will depend. Let’s take a look!

Concrete floor sealer

A concrete sealer is most commonly used in outdoor spaces that are exposed or subject to damage from the natural elements. This may include freezing, thawing, temperature fluctuations, and moisture, all of which can damage unprotected concrete. 

A concrete sealer is usually an acrylic-resin-based coating or a penetrative silane or silicone that sinks a little deeper into the surface. Either way, you can expect to see the following advantages to selecting to use a concrete sealer:

  • Seals the surface pores of the concrete to make it impervious to liquid
  • Protects from freeze/thaw cycle cracking
  • Prevents surface from stains due to oil drips, dirt, mold, etc.
  • Protects from minor corrosion from chemicals and salt
  • May make the surface look wet or shiny, depending on the formula used
  • Generally inexpensive to purchase

Best applications:

  • Driveways, patios, and other outdoor surfaces
  • Small home projects such as basements
  • Indoor surfaces that don’t have a lot of foot traffic

Epoxy Coatings

Epoxy flooring in Ohio as well as urethane coatings have different chemical properties but are often used in tandem. When considering epoxy flooring you may find that it is more expensive than a simple concrete sealer but it does provide superior protection and advantages including:

  • Seals the surface pores of the concrete to make it impervious to liquid
  • Protects from damage from water and oil stains
  • Can prevent corrosion due to industrial chemicals
  • Protects surface from abrasions and impact damage
  • Comes in a variety of colors and patterns that can be customized

Best applications:

  • Industrial facilities such as factories, warehouses, etc.
  • Retail facilities with high levels of foot traffic
  • Commercial and residential garages
  • Concrete floors with inherent moisture issues
  • Indoor applications 

Concrete Flooring Options in Ohio

Neither concrete sealer nor epoxy flooring is better than the other; they are just best suited for different applications. Overall epoxy flooring in Ohio may provide more compressive protection of your concrete surfaces, but for many applications, a sealer is more than enough protection. 

For guidance or advice on which will be best for your specific concrete project, contact our team of flooring professionals at Select Flooring Systems. Not only will we help you select the best coverage for your concrete surfaces but we can have it professionally applied in no time!