All you wanted to know about Polished Concrete and Epoxy Floors


Epoxy floors

If you are trying to decide on what type of concrete flooring system would be best suited for your industrial or commercial facility, there are two popular choices. They are polished concrete floors or epoxy coating. Each type has its own merits. However, there may be instances when one may be better suited than the other. 

Polished Concrete

Polished concrete is exactly what it is – concrete that is polished. To achieve a highly reflective surface requires special equipment and skill. The concrete floor needs to be prepared and levelled, after which the process of grinding can start. There will be multiple grinding stages, with each subsequent stage using finer grit strengths than the last, until a highly reflective surface is achieved. It means that any stain will be removed in the process.

Advantages of Polished Concrete Floors:

  • Augments the strength and durability of the concrete
  • Has good traction even when wet
  • Uses the existing concrete surface 
  • Little or no dust and “shedding” are normally associated with concrete floors
  • Aesthetic value is very high

Disadvantages of Polished Concrete Floors:

  • Will require rebuffing depending on the “wear and tear” due to foot traffic and/or heavy machinery
  • Is still porous, and liquids will be able to seep under the surface and stain the floor. 

Best For:

  • Retail store floors
  • Lobbies
  • Cafés
  • Warehouses with light traffic
  • Industrial facilities that have light traffic

Epoxy Flooring 

Though polished concrete is a worthwhile option in many commercial and industrial settings, it has some limitations. Epoxy flooring in Sydney is available in different formulations designed to protect the integrity of the concrete floor. 

Epoxy flooring is made up of two parts – the epoxy resin and the catalyst or hardener. When mixed, they bond together and with the concrete floor. The installation will require careful preparation of the concrete surface and an experienced crew to achieve great results.

Advantages of Epoxy Flooring in Sydney:

  • Stain resistance from grease, oil, and most liquids
  • Can be applied over concrete paint
  • Impervious to liquids 
  • Protects from spalling, abrasions, and chipping
  • Availability of formulations that are resistant to chemical damage
  • Many colors and striping options are available
  • Food grade epoxy resins are available

Disadvantage of Epoxy Flooring 

  • Hard and can cause contact noise when walking
  • Can be cold without underfloor heating
  • Must be applied on a smooth surface
  • UV sensitive unless a finish is applied

Best For:

  • Animal Care facilities
  • Food processing units or facilities
  • Warehouses
  • Heavy industrial facilities

Use the above guide to make an informed decision for your flooring. 

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