Urethane Coating for Concrete Floors
Concrete floors are a beautiful and low-maintenance choice for both residential and commercial settings. However, to ensure long-term durability, concrete floors need to be sealed and protected with a urethane coating. Urethane coating creates a glossy, protective layer that is resistant to scratches, chemicals, and UV damage. It also helps protect the concrete from moisture and dirt, making it easier to clean and maintain. Urethane coatings come in a variety of color options, making it easy to customize the look of your concrete floor. Not only is a urethane coating aesthetically pleasing, but it is also a cost-effective and long-lasting solution for concrete floors.
What is urethane coating?
Urethane coatings, recognized as high-performance specialty finishes, are specifically designed to protect concrete surfaces. They involve applying synthetic rubber, known as urethane, in liquid form, which then undergoes curing to establish a durable, protective coating capable of resisting scratches, chemicals, and UV damage.
Unlike other concrete sealants, urethanes create a flexible and glossy finish that is easy to clean and maintain. Urethane coating comes in an array of colors, so you can easily customize the look of your concrete floors. From classic concrete tones to vibrant, high-end finishes, urethane coatings have you covered. People often use urethane finishes on commercial floors, such as those found in gyms and retail stores, and on residential floors, including patio and garage floors.
Benefits of urethane coating for concrete floors
- Resistant to scratches, chemicals, and UV damage – Urethane coatings create a flexible and glossy finish that is able to withstand a variety of chemicals, including oil-based cleaners. They are also resistant to UV damage that can cause concrete to crack over time. – Protects concrete from moisture and dirt – Urethane coatings help protect concrete from moisture and dirt, making it easier to clean and maintain. – Cost-effective and long-lasting solution – Urethane coatings are a cost-effective and long-lasting solution for concrete floors.
- They can protect concrete for up to 25 years and are an excellent solution for areas that see heavy foot traffic, like retail stores, restaurants, and gyms. – Easy to clean and maintain – Urethane finishes are easy to clean and maintain. Unlike other concrete sealants, urethane coatings create a glossy finish that repels dirt and is easy to clean off. They can also be used on unsealed concrete, making them a great option for high-traffic areas, such as retail stores and gyms, that need to be cleaned regularly.
Urethane coating vs. other concrete sealants.
Urethane coatings, like all other concrete sealants, provide a protective barrier for concrete surfaces. However, urethane coatings are more high-performance and specialized than other concrete sealants, like acrylic and epoxy. Urethane coatings are more resistant to scratches, chemicals, and UV damage than other concrete sealants. While urethane coatings are designed to last longer, they also require more maintenance. When compared to other concrete sealants, urethane coatings are more expensive.
How to apply urethane coating.
If your concrete floor is unsealed, start by cleaning the surface with a concrete cleaner and a broom or vacuum. Allow the concrete to dry before applying a concrete sealer, and apply the sealer in multiple coats. For sealed concrete, clean and de-grease the surface before application. Urethane coatings can be applied by a professional contractor or by a do-it-yourselfer who has the right tools and training.
Urethane coating color options
Concrete urethane coatings come in a variety of colors, including black, gray, brown, and white. Black, gray, and brown are great for high-traffic commercial settings, while white is ideal for residential concrete floors. Choose a color that complements the look of your space while fulfilling your needs.
Urethane coating cost.
Urethane coatings vary in cost and depend on the size of the job and type of urethane coating used. Generally, urethane coatings cost $0.70 – $0.75 per square foot. Cost will vary based on the size of the job, type of urethane used, labor costs, and any additional repairs that may be needed. Costs will also vary based on where you live, as some areas have higher labor rates than others.
When comparing urethane coating costs, consider not only the price of the coating, but also the price of labor. For example, one company may charge $0.70 per square foot while another company may charge $0.50 per square foot, but the second company may charge $1.00 per square foot for labor. Therefore, the $0.50 per square foot price may not actually be cheaper than the $0.70 per square foot price.
Urethane coating maintenance.
Urethane coatings are designed to last longer than other concrete sealants, but they still require maintenance. Brush or sweep the concrete regularly to keep dirt and dust off the surface. Wash with water as needed to remove any dirt, oil, or grease. If the surface becomes stained, apply a concrete cleaner to remove the stain.
In high-traffic areas, like retail stores or gyms, you may need to re-coat the concrete every year or every other year. In low-traffic areas, like residential areas, you may only need to re-coat every few years. As the concrete ages, the coating will wear away in high-use areas. You can reapply a urethane coating as needed. Urethane coatings can be applied in multiple coats, providing added protection and durability.
Urethane coating installation services.
Contractors can install urethane coating to protect and beautify your concrete floors. Contractors can also provide regular maintenance, such as cleaning and re-coating, to keep your concrete looking beautiful. Commercial concrete contractors can provide installation services to protect high-traffic floors, like those in retail stores or gyms. Residential concrete contractors can also provide installation services to protect lower-traffic concrete patio floors and garage floors.
Urethane coating FAQs.
What is the difference between urethane coating and concrete sealer?
While both coatings aim to protect concrete, urethane coatings differ from concrete sealers. Concrete sealers usually offer lower performance compared to urethane coatings and frequently present a flat or matte finish. Furthermore, concrete sealers commonly find application solely on new concrete, whereas urethane coatings are suitable for both new and existing concrete floors.
Is it possible to apply urethane coating on unsealed concrete? Yes, urethane coatings can indeed be applied on unsealed concrete, but proper cleaning and preparation of the concrete are essential prior to the application process.
Once you have sealed the concrete, it is best to use a concrete sealer, like urethane, to protect the concrete.
Conclusion
As you can see, urethane coating is a high-performance, specialty finish that is designed to protect concrete surfaces. Urethane coatings offer a flexible and glossy finish, resisting scratches, chemicals, and UV damage, and facilitating easy cleaning and maintenance. They also aid in safeguarding concrete against moisture and dirt, simplifying the cleaning process. With a variety of colors available, urethane coatings enable convenient customization of concrete floor aesthetics. This makes urethane coating a cost-effective, enduring choice for concrete floors.