Enamel for concrete floors: types of coatings used, review of products from major manufacturers

Because of their strength and adaptability, concrete floors are a popular option for both residential and commercial spaces. But it’s imperative to apply an enamel coating to preserve them from deterioration and improve their appearance. Concrete floor enamel offers a robust protective layer that can endure severe weather and traffic in addition to adding aesthetic appeal.

Enamel coatings come in a variety of forms, each intended to satisfy particular requirements and tastes. Epoxy, polyurethane, and acrylic enamel are a few popular varieties. Because of its exceptional chemical resistance and adhesion, epoxy enamel is a great choice for industrial environments. Superior flexibility and UV resistance make polyurethane enamel appropriate for areas that are exposed to sunlight. Because it dries quickly and is simple to apply, acrylic enamel is highly valued and frequently used in residential settings.

Concrete floor enamel products of superior quality are available from several major manufacturers. In the industry, well-known brands include Sherwin-Williams, Behr, and Rust-Oleum. A variety of epoxy and polyurethane enamels from Rust-Oleum are renowned for their strength and visual appeal. Easy-to-use acrylic enamels from Behr are well-liked by do-it-yourselfers. The reputable coatings brand Sherwin-Williams offers expert-grade solutions to meet a range of commercial and industrial needs.

A few things to think about when selecting an enamel for your concrete floor are the environment, amount of traffic, and desired finish. Your concrete floor can be made to look better while staying durable and protected if you use the right product. In order to assist you in making an informed choice, this guide will explain the various kinds of enamel coatings that are available and provide an evaluation of some excellent products from top manufacturers.

Concrete floor enamel coatings provide a long-lasting and stylish way to enhance and preserve surfaces in both home and business environments. These coatings come in a variety of forms, such as acrylic, polyurethane, and epoxy, and each has special advantages like moisture, abrasion, and chemical resistance. To assist you in selecting the best enamel product for your concrete floor, this article evaluates the most well-liked products from leading producers such as Rust-Oleum, Sherwin-Williams, and Behr, emphasizing their benefits, features, and best-use scenarios.

Why are concrete floors painted?

Qualities of a concrete floor include:

1. The base, made of concrete, is durable, strong and reliable.
2. Concrete has good resistance to wear and various types of atmospheric influences.

On the other hand, the surface layer of it is weak and easily destroyed, which is how the so-called cement milk forms. It consequently starts to dust, which is bad for the equipment, machinery, and mechanisms that are on it as well as for the guest’s comfort and general health.

By its very nature, concrete is a porous material. This results in the infiltration of water into its body, which weakens it (particularly during freezing and thawing). It also corrodes the internal reinforcement, which rusts and eventually destroys the structure.

• Concrete has a fairly low tensile strength. Depending on the loads that fall on the base, problems may appear on the surface during operation: cracks, chips, potholes.
• Of course, various additives and modifiers are used to improve the characteristics of concrete, but its surface is recommended to be additionally protected.
• In addition, an untreated concrete floor itself does not look very presentable, and painting will significantly improve its aesthetic characteristics.

The above makes it clear that the concrete base needs to be treated. The use of enamels—a type of paint and varnish—is one method of finishing concrete.

What are the advantages of applying enamel to a concrete surface?

• Dust the base;
• Strengthen the surface layer;
• Minimize the impact of moisture;
• Improve the appearance of the floor.

Enamel compositions also need to be long-lasting, resistant to wear and temperature changes, and have good adherence to concrete. Additional requirements for the coating’s strength, resistance to a specific temperature range, to UV radiation and harsh environments, drying time, and the presence of antibacterial additives may be necessary depending on the particulars of how concrete foundations operate.

Crucial! When buying compositions, stay away from stores where you can buy counterfeit goods or materials that are kept against the law.

Types of enamels for concrete

GOST 31384*2008, "Protection of concrete and reinforced concrete structures from corrosion," defines the types of paints and varnishes that are used for secondary protection of concrete bases, as well as the areas and conditions in which they are applied. The longevity of the concrete structure is guaranteed for at least 50 years if the standards’ requirements are fulfilled (with periodic treatment of paints and varnishes).

The following enamels and paints are defined by GOST and are used for concrete surfaces:

Certain coatings are produced in compliance with state regulations:

• PF-115 enamels – according to GOST 6465*76;

• HV-785 enamels – according to GOST 7313*75;

• enamel HS-759 — according to GOST 23494*79

The majority of compositions (not in the list given) are made using the TU created by the manufacturers; however, GOST R 51691*2000 "Paint and varnish materials. Enamels" must be adhered to in terms of their primary features.

Crucial! as of March 1, 2018. The "Protection of concrete and reinforced concrete structures from corrosion" GOST 31384*2017 becomes operative.

Now let’s look at the features of the most widely used compositions applied to concrete floors.

Alkyd

Ethaphthalic or pentaphthalic varnishes are the building blocks of enamels. In addition, the mixture contains fillers, pigments, additives, and a thinner. Alkyd compositions can catch fire and cause toxicity. They resist wear, oils, fats, detergents, and atmospheric phenomena well.

Withstand variations in temperature between -50 and +60 degrees. Certain varieties possess antistatic qualities. Four years is the average service life.

Acrylic

These polyacrylate-based water-dispersion compositions are used for finishing projects both inside and outside of buildings. Since acrylic enamels don’t contain solvents, they are non-toxic and essentially odorless.

Resistant to sunlight and moisture. Stop the creation of dust, make the base more resistant to wear, and dry quickly.

Polyurethane

Polyester resins are the base material used to make enamels. They combine to create a strong, dependable, waterproof covering that is highly resistant to chemicals, abrasives, and low temperatures.

The most positive reviews should go to the material’s decorative qualities. One- and two-component compositions are utilized for both internal and external tasks.

Marked by a protracted drying period (up to two weeks). Paint’s high price is another drawback. The substance is applied when the temperature rises above +5 degrees. Flooring in industrial and production spaces with heavy traffic loads is the best place to use compositions.

Epoxy

Epoxy resins serve as the basis for the production of the compositions. These enamels exhibit excellent adhesion to the base, moisture impermeability, good resistance to abrasion, wear, atmospheric influences, and chemical reagents. They can be used to stop moisture evaporation in newly laid concrete.

This is because the components react chemically to form hardening, which happens as a result of these reactions rather than drying.

Range: both outside and indoors. The coating keeps its appearance for a very long period. Painting is a bit challenging because you have to combine two elements.

Rubber

This acrylate polymer-infused water-dispersion coating has a high degree of elasticity. It can clear the base of dust and conceal minor flaws like chips and cracks. Both weather and abrasion resistance are strong points of the composition.

It has no overpowering smell, so you can use it safely indoors. The paint dries quickly, is impact and fire resistant, vapor permeable, and environmentally friendly.

Manufacturers are always experimenting with new recipes and ways to improve their products. This makes it possible to give the compositions better performance qualities.

Manufacturers of paints and enamels for concrete floors

There is a large selection of materials available for finishing concrete surfaces. We will take into account goods from businesses that have demonstrated their excellence.

Novbytkhim

• Synthetic enamel for concrete floors.

The St. Petersburg-based manufacturer creates a variety of paints and varnishes, including mixtures for sealing concrete surfaces. A few items are manufactured under the "Chief Technologist" brand.

Concrete surfaces within buildings are shielded by enamel, which is primarily composed of synthetic resins and polymers. Water resistance and increased wear are its defining characteristics. Under the influence of UV light, the coating does not fade.

Applying it causes it to self-level. excellently clears the base of dust. Eight hours after the workday ends, you are free to stroll on the painted floor. Processing needs to happen at room temperature. The product uses 100–120 ml per square meter per layer. A 20-liter bucket of enamel costs 3.4 thousand rubles.

Crucial! One cannot apply the coating to a freshly laid base. Furthermore, it is intolerant of drastic temperature changes.

• Acrylic enamel.

The mixture is applied to indoor concrete surfaces as a protective and aesthetic coating. There are eight colors available for this environmentally friendly, moisture- and wear-resistant enamel that dries quickly (you can walk on concrete 12 hours after application). It can also be tinted.

Applying two to three layers to the floor is advised. About 100 g of composition are used in one layer. Cost: 2.4 kg or 980 rubles.

Dekart

Since 1992, the business has been in operation.

• Alkyd-urethane enamel.

The composition is appropriate for high operating loads and is used indoors. It does not, however, respond well to being near metal objects. High resistance to abrasion, detergents, oils, fats, and solvents is exhibited by the glossy finish. Consumption estimate: 80–120 ml/sq. m.m. Cost: 3000 rubles/9 liters.

• "Liquid plastic".

High strength, resistance to abrasion, chemicals, weather, impacts, and excellent hiding power are characteristics of the coating. intended for surfaces that have the capacity to support high operating loads. Suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. The consumption is 150 ml/sq.m. on average. The price is 3,000 rubles ($2.7 liters).

• Alkyd coating.

The mixture is applied to freshly painted or previously painted surfaces. produces an indoor wear-resistant coating. Up to 180 g were consumed per square meter. Twenty kilograms of paint cost 2.3 thousand rubles.

Lakra

The business has been making paints and varnishes for roughly 20 years, and its offerings are marketed under the category of low-cost compositions.

Excellent hiding power, strong concrete adhesion, and resistance to environmental factors characterize PF-115 enamel. It is simple to use and can be done both inside and outside of buildings.

Accessible in 22 hues. applied in two layers. Each person’s consumption: 100–200 g/m^2. Service life: five years maximum. About 2.5 thousand/20 kg was the cost.

• Acrylic enamel.

Two layers of enamel are applied, and it dries quickly—it stops sticking to dust in an hour and dries completely in 24—so you can walk on the surface four hours after application. It is also resistant to moisture and mechanical damage. For two days, the base needs to be shielded from moisture. Utilization on average: 100 g/sq.m. The cost is 3.5k/10 kg.

Krasko

The company offers an enormous variety of surface treatment compositions.

• Polyurethane composition.

Shiny, one-component polyurethane enamel is impermeable to water and exhibits good resistance to wear, abrasion, and chemical exposure. The temperature at which the application is done is plus 5 degrees. It takes 24 hours to dry. Material usage per square meter: roughly 250–350 g. Cost: 9.5 thousand rubles per kilogram.

• PVC-based coating.

The concrete base is consistently protected by matte paint made of PVC resins. It is resilient to chemicals, precipitation, and mechanical and transport loads. The composition can be applied in below-freezing temperatures, and it takes roughly two hours to dry.

The temperature range for using the coating is -40 to +80 degrees. 200–300 g/sq.m. of material, depending on how well-preserved the concrete surface is. The price of enamel for 30 kg was 7.1 thousand rubles.

• Acrylic composition.

Excellent resistance to abrasives, moisture, chemicals, mechanical stress, and wear is exhibited by glossy acrylic enamel. It is well-suited for decoration and is simple to use. A single layer of coating with a 200 micron thickness can be applied.

The ideal temperature range for processing is -5 degrees. It is okay to walk on the floor one day following application. 150 g of paint per square meter (with a 100 micron layer). The cost of enamel is 5,700 rubles for 20 kg.

• Epoxy enamel.

Epoxy resins serve as the foundation for two-component enamel, which is used to paint both new and old surfaces, including ones that have already been painted with epoxy materials. It has no smell and exhibits good resistance to chemicals, abrasives, and harsh environments.

Paint-coated floors can be used in temperatures ranging from -40 to +100 degrees. The enamel spreads easily and is easy to apply. One day following treatment, you can walk on the surface. For every square meter of the base, about 200 g are used (with a layer thickness of 100 microns). It costs roughly 9.4 thousand rubles for a 27-liter can.

• Water-epoxy coating.

The water-based, two-component glossy coating is resistant to wear, mechanical stress, chemicals, dirt, and weather well.

Freshly laid concrete can be painted with this odorless, environmentally friendly, vapor-permeable paint. Applying enamel occurs at temperatures above zero. About 180 g of composition are needed for 1 sq. m. A can weighing 22 kg costs roughly 9 thousand rubles.

Yaroslavl paints

The association has a long history of manufacturing paint and varnish supplies. The company’s co-founding of the Paint Quality Association instills confidence in the knowledge that its products adhere to all current material requirements.

• Alkyd-urethane composition.

Both inside and outside of buildings, the coating can be applied to previously painted surfaces. The paint is resistant to moisture and general wear and tear. After painting, the concrete floor is ready for use in 24 hours.

Consumption of composition: roughly 100 g per square meter. When the temperature is positive, it is applied. The price of a 0.9 kg can is approximately 340 rubles.

• Acrylic coating.

The mixture is applied to floors in structures with typical operational loads. The paint is odorless, environmentally friendly, and resistant to wear, water, mold, and mildew. It dries in an hour. Both pediatric and medical facilities can use it. One m 2 of the product is processed using about 100 g. The paint is 180 rubles in price. (0.9 kg weight in the bucket).

Meffert Farbwerke AG, Dufa brand

Having been established in 1955, this company is among the biggest producers of decorative and protective coatings for different kinds of materials in Europe.

• Polymer enamel.

Resistance to impacts, weather conditions, and chemical environments (hydrochloric acids, alkalis, fats, and oils) are characteristics of this enamel. Both inside and outside of buildings can use it. It can tolerate temperatures as high as +50 degrees. It is elastic and has good adherence to concrete.

In 12 hours, it dries to the point where you can walk on it (at T + 20 degrees). forms a smooth, glossy layer. accessible in four hues. About 100 ml per square meter is consumed. Price: 2.7 thousand rubles per liter.

• "Liquid plastic".

Private building foundations as well as those outside of them are shielded by PVC-based polymer coating. It is elastic and resistant to impacts, weather, abrasion, and chemicals. Following application, a smooth, even layer.

About 100 ml of enamel are consumed for every square meter of surface. The day following treatment, the base can be used. A 2.5-liter can costs approximately 3,000 rubles.

Crucial! Garage floors are not painted.

Tikkurila

For more than 150 years, Tikkurila has been a player in the surface protection industry.

Apart from this particular brand, the Tex brand is also present in Russia.

• Alkyd coating.

Concrete floors subjected to mild mechanical stress indoors are designed to be coated with alkyd composition. applied when the temperature is higher than +5 degrees. forms a glossy, water-, abrasion-, and detergent-resistant coating.

Able to withstand temperatures as high as +120 degrees. does not resist the consequences. It smells really bad. arranged according to color. A week after staining, the base can be used (dust does not stick to three hours after application). about 150 milliliters of a 1 kV processing agent are needed. m. Cost: 2.7 l or 2.15 thousand rubles.

• Alkyd-urethane composition.

The enamel is designed to be applied to concrete surfaces that are subjected to heavy loads. Suitable for usage in children’s homes. possesses strong wear resistance, durability, and hiding power. Five ready-made colors are offered. Dusts off in ten hours.

After a week, the base can be used. For every square meter, about 100 ml of composition are used. The material is 800 rubles in cost. each 2.7-liter can.

TeoKhim

The business produces industrial polymer flooring as its specialty.

For the protective and aesthetic treatment of industrial facilities’ bases (parking lots, warehouses, workshops, retail premises), an epoxy composition consisting of two components is utilized. It hardens into a long-lasting, orange-peel-like glossy or textured coating.

It completely seals the concrete base, is odorless, and has outstanding resistance to mechanical stress, chemicals, and UV radiation. After three days, you can walk on the painted surface. One kilogram of the product costs between 350 and 400 rubles.

Vaksa

The business produces acrylic compositions to finish surfaces both inside and outside of buildings.

The paint dries fast, has no smell, is safe for the environment, and is resistant to fire, water, and wear. Dust from the concrete base is perfectly removed by it. You can select any color from among 1100 options for the coating. About 200 g per square meter is consumed in one layer. The composition costs 215 rubles per kilogram.

You can find out more about the preparation of concrete floors by watching the video included in this article.

Type of Coating	Product Review
Epoxy Enamel	Durable, chemical-resistant; brands like Rust-Oleum and Behr offer popular options.
Polyurethane Enamel	Highly resistant to abrasion and UV rays; Tuff Coat and Sherwin-Williams are top choices.
Acrylic Enamel	Quick-drying, suitable for moderate traffic; Valspar and Benjamin Moore are well-known brands.

For concrete floors, selecting the appropriate enamel is essential to guarantee longevity, visual appeal, and protection. Various coatings, including acrylic, polyurethane, and epoxy, each have special advantages that are appropriate for different types of environments. Because of their excellent chemical resistance and strong adhesion, epoxy coatings are a great choice for industrial environments. UV resistance and flexibility make polyurethane ideal for locations that are exposed to sunlight. Acrylics are appropriate for both residential and commercial settings because of their ease of use and quick drying time.

Large producers offer a broad variety of goods to satisfy these various requirements. Reputable brands of floor enamels include Rust-Oleum, Sherwin-Williams, and Behr among others. Rust-Oleum provides long-lasting, easily applied, and robust epoxy solutions. Cutting-edge polyurethane coatings from Sherwin-Williams offer durability and a refined appearance all at once. Acrylic enamels from Behr are a favorite for do-it-yourself projects because of how simple they are to use and how quickly they dry.

Think about the unique needs of your area when choosing an enamel for your concrete floor. Consider things like foot traffic, sunlight or chemical exposure, and desired aesthetic. There are many options available from top manufacturers, so you can find the ideal product for your requirements. Your concrete floors will stay strong and attractive for many years if they are applied and prepared properly.

Video on the topic

Acrylic paint for concrete floors "Prestige"

ENAMEL for concrete floors "Profi" TEX. REVIEW of a non-professional.

Test drive Lakra Prof enamel for concrete floors

Enamel for concrete floors..Super thing

Olecolor enamel acrylic for concrete floors