Polymer coating for concrete floors: types, tips for choosing and installing

Polymer coatings provide a great way to improve the toughness and aesthetics of concrete flooring. These coatings offer your floors a shiny, new appearance in addition to shielding them from abrasions. Polymer coatings can significantly improve any area, be it a residential, commercial, or garage renovation. This guide will examine the different kinds of polymer coatings that are available, provide guidance on selecting the best one for your purposes, and provide some useful installation advice.

There are several types of polymer coatings, and each has a special set of advantages. These coatings, which range from epoxy to polyurethane, are made to handle particular problems like chemical spills, high foot traffic, or just adding a little flair. Knowing these choices will enable you to choose wisely, taking into account the features of your room as well as your unique requirements.

Selecting the appropriate polymer coating requires taking into account a number of factors, including your budget, the level of durability you require, and the environment in which it will be applied. It’s critical to match the coating to the needs of your floor because each type of coating has unique features and restrictions. You can find the ideal solution for your concrete floor by following this guide, which will walk you through these factors.

Installation comes next after you’ve decided on the best polymer coating. For the coating to remain effective and long-lasting, proper application is essential. We will give you helpful hints and detailed instructions to ensure the installation goes as smoothly as possible. These tips will help you get a polished finish and make the most of your new, long-lasting floor.

Polymer coatings provide an adaptable way to improve the strength and aesthetics of concrete floors. This post will walk you through the various kinds of polymer coatings that are out there, clarify the important things to think about when selecting the best one for your requirements, and offer helpful advice for a flawless installation. It can make a big difference to know your options and the best practices for applying these coatings, whether your goal is to protect your floor from wear and tear or just give it a new trendy look.

Properties of concrete floors

A foundation made of concrete is the most popular and long-lasting type. If you have the bare minimum of tools and materials on hand, you can easily make it yourself. Let’s take a moment to learn about the characteristics of concrete screed.

In its most basic form, a concrete foundation is a floor composed of a binder, which is cement, fillers (sand, gravel, or stone chips), water, and additives. The specifications for a concrete floor can be found in "Floors," SP 29.13330.2011.

Although it’s common in residential buildings, a concrete foundation is essential when there are higher loads.

There are several benefits to using high-quality ingredients and adhering strictly to laying technology when creating concrete floors.

  • durability;
  • fire resistance;
  • resistance to aggressive environments;
  • wear resistance and mechanical strength;
  • ease of maintenance;
  • resistance to humidity and temperature changes;
  • safety for human health;
  • budget cost.

But because of the cement milk that has solidified, the top layer of the concrete base is delicate. It develops chips and cracks while it’s in use. The worst part is that it starts to dust.

Equipment components may become contaminated by cement dust, reducing the equipment’s lifespan. The health of people is greatly endangered by such dust. It can lead to mucous membrane disorders, allergies, and skin and respiratory conditions. Furthermore, concrete is cold and has an ugly appearance.

You won’t be able to stop at just pouring concrete mixture onto the floor, for this reason. Depending on the conditions of operation and the requirements placed upon it, such a base may undergo additional processing.

Concrete screed must always be polished after it is poured, regardless of whether a finishing coat will be applied. This allows you to get rid of surface imperfections and the brittle upper layer.

Types of polymer coatings

Crucial! Even though this coating is dependable and long-lasting, concrete processing is still required.

When selecting a composition, take into account:

  • purpose of the object:
  • type of loads that the base will experience;
  • operating conditions;
  • condition of the concrete floor;
  • need for decoration.

Now let’s look at the polymer-based products that can be utilized for concrete bases’ last processing steps.

Polymer impregnation

Applications for organic-based impregnations for dust removal from concrete floors are numerous. Concrete that has been impregnated with polymers goes deeper (2–6 mm) into the base of the concrete, filling and binding the pores in the top layer to increase its durability and resistance to different environments.

Acrylic impregnations

These compounds should be renewed after two to three years because of their short service life. Additionally, substrates that are not subjected to heavy loads are impregnated with acrylic. Nonetheless, they effectively address the issue of dust formation. Furthermore, they have resistance to both moisture and UV light.

Consumption during impregnation: 0.2-0.35 l/sq.m.m.

Polyurethane compounds

This is the most common and affordable method of conception. Concrete can be made much stronger, more resistant to moisture and wear, have its base cleared of dust, and look better by applying polyurethane compounds. Their drawbacks are that they smell strongly and can’t be used in situations where the floor’s humidity level is higher than 5%.

200–400 g/m2 is the average consumption per layer.

Epoxy impregnations

The two-component epoxy mixture shields the concrete surface from moisture, fuel and lubricant effects, and effectively removes dust. It has no smell, but its resistance to loads from such impregnation is marginally worse than polyurethane’s.

Impregnation consumption: 200-300 g / sq.m. Recently, water-epoxy impregnations have appeared, which are characterized by low viscosity, which allows for better penetration into the top layer of concrete.

Latex impregnation

Latex-based compositions are resistant to sunlight and effectively inhibit the formation of dust. They combine to create a coating that offers defense against harsh conditions and abrasives. Since water serves as a solvent, they have no smell. They can be put on recently mixed concrete. They are not appropriate for floors that experience heavy loads, though, just like acrylic.

Impregnation based on PVC resins

These impregnations offer strong resistance to loads and abrasion by penetrating deeply into the concrete’s surface layer. Although they are resilient to harsh conditions and dry quickly, they are not very effective at repelling dirt.

The consumption of composition is 0.2-0.35 l/sq.m. You can add dyes to different kinds of impregnations. These combinations will impart a tint to the concrete floor and improve its aesthetic appeal.

Polymer paint

Since these thin-layer polymer coatings have an application thickness of no more than 500 microns, they are typically applied to surfaces that are not subjected to significant loads.

Painting a concrete floor serves multiple purposes:

  • Aesthetic component. Gray concrete does not look very attractive. With the help of paint, you can significantly improve the base.
  • Protective functions. Painting will increase the service life of the floor, increase moisture protection, resistance to atmospheric and aggressive environments, increase mechanical strength and hygiene.
  • Elimination of minor defects in the form of cracks and smoothing of irregularities.

A concrete surface is primed for painting using a variety of primers.

Crucial! The most dependable method for treating a concrete base is to use the impregnation-primer-paint scheme.

We will compile the details of the most popular paints for concrete surfaces into a table for convenience of comparison:

  • abrasion resistance;
  • strength;
  • fuel and lubricant resistance;
  • good adhesion;
  • resistance to atmospheric phenomena;
  • the possibility of application to wet concrete;
  • use for external and internal work;
  • environmental friendliness;
  • hardens quickly, so the paint should be used quickly.

  • resistance to chemicals;
  • impact and mechanical damage resistance;
  • applicable for indoor and outdoor work;
  • good hiding power;
  • decorative;
  • quite a high price.

  • resistance to atmospheric phenomena;
  • resistance to abrasion and mechanical damage;
  • elasticity;
  • environmental friendliness
  • moisture resistance;
  • the possibility of application at sub-zero temperatures, the working range is -50 … + 60 degrees;
  • decorative;
  • not very high hiding power;
  • high cost.

  • Recently, a thin-layer polyurethane coating for concrete floors "polymer stone" has become popular for application to working concrete surfaces. It is applied to newly installed concrete floors and to old coatings.
  • This composition has increased durability, good penetration into the pores of concrete, greater resistance to chemicals and any type of impact than conventional polyurethane enamel.
  • It can be applied without preliminary priming of the floor, as it has increased adhesion. The thickness of the applied film does not exceed 150 microns. The drying time of the floor between layers is no more than 4 hours.
  • Heavy loads on the bases are allowed 24 hours after application. As a result of using this composition, a highly durable polymer concrete coating is obtained.

Self-leveling floor

This self-leveling mixture is a highly preferred coating for concrete foundations. Typically, its application has a thickness of 4-5 mm. Once the liquid composition solidifies, a monolithic surface with superior strength properties is created.

Depending on the needs of the landowner, the surface may be textured, smooth, or contain small bits of mineral.

Polyurethane-based floors

Because of their unique chemical and physical characteristics, these coatings have recently gained immense popularity.

  • They are suitable for laying on bases that are subject to serious static and dynamic loads.
  • Such a polymer coating for concrete floors tolerates temperature changes, the action of direct sunlight, it combines strength and elasticity.
  • Polyurethane flooring is fireproof, hygienic, non-slip.
  • It has excellent decorative qualities.
  • The composition has an unpleasant odor.
  • The solution cannot be applied to damp bases.

Epoxy-based floors

Medium-intensity loads are installed in areas with epoxy floors. Both recently laid concrete bases and old concrete screeds can be treated with the material.

  • It is allowed to apply the solution to damp concrete.
  • The coating is resistant to external influences, chemicals, is not afraid of moisture (epoxy self-leveling floor can be installed outdoors), has high mechanical strength, good dirt-repellent properties, is easy to maintain.
  • The resulting base has excellent decorative qualities, is not affected by ultraviolet radiation, is environmentally friendly, fireproof.
  • The solution obtained after mixing the components is not viable for too long, so some professionalism is required from people with working with him.
  • The coating is quite sensitive to impact loads. When heavy objects fall, cracks may form.

Etal self-leveling floors, which have good performance characteristics and an affordable price, are quite popular in this segment.

Floors on a methyl methacrylate base

The following attributes define this relatively new type of coating:

  • The fast-hardening two-component coating is not afraid of moisture, has high resistance to impacts, abrasion, aggressive environments, temperature changes.
  • Withstands loads of up to 15 tons per 1 sq.m.
  • However, it is almost impossible to apply it yourself, since it dries quickly, and only professionals can achieve a smooth surface.
  • When laying, the composition releases toxins.
  • In addition, such a self-leveling floor is quite expensive.

Other self-leveling floor types include epoxy-rubber, cement-acrylic, and polyurethane-cement, though they are less popular.

Highly filled polymer floors

After installation, this kind of coating creates an extremely sturdy base that can support heavy transport loads. It is not frightened of moisture, strong materials, or variations in temperature.

Both inside and outside the building, floors are installed. Typically, the coating’s thickness fluctuates between 4 and 10 mm. The mixture consists of quartz sand (corundum can be used in rare instances to replace quartz sand), a polymer fixer, and coloring pigments to add color to the floor if needed.

Device of a self-leveling polymer floor

You’ll need the following equipment to finish the job:

Detailed guidelines for installing a self-leveling floor:

  1. Preparation of the base.
  • If the polymer coating on concrete is to be applied to a freshly laid base, then at least 28 days must pass from the moment of pouring.
  • The surface should be cleaned of debris, dirt and dust.
  • Defects of the base (cracks, chips, potholes) are sealed with mortar.
  • The concrete surface is polished. The debris is collected with a vacuum cleaner.
  1. The concrete base is primed. For better adhesion, fine quartz sand can be added to the primer. After applying the primer, wait until it dries (about a day). Residual sand is removed with a vacuum cleaner.
  2. The base layer of the self-leveling floor is installed. The finished polymer solution is poured onto the surface. A squeegee is used to ensure uniform distribution. Air bubbles are removed with a needle roller (as seen in the photo).

  1. If desired, you can create a decor on this layer. The ideal temperature range for work: +5…+25 degrees.
  2. After the base layer has dried, a thin finishing layer of polymer is applied. The products of some manufacturers do not require the application of a finishing layer – it is enough to limit yourself to the base.

This article contains a video that you can watch.

Type Description
Epoxy Coating Durable and resistant to chemicals and stains. Ideal for heavy-duty areas.
Polyurethane Coating Flexible and UV-resistant. Good for areas with high foot traffic and varying temperatures.
Polyaspartic Coating Fast curing and resistant to abrasion. Works well in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Tips for Choosing Consider the level of traffic, exposure to chemicals, and temperature fluctuations. Choose a coating that fits your specific needs.
Installation Tips Ensure the surface is clean and dry before application. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and application. Allow adequate curing time before use.

Your concrete floors’ longevity and aesthetic can be greatly impacted by the polymer coating you choose. With so many coating options, it’s critical to comprehend each one’s special advantages and select the one that best suits your requirements. Understanding what each option offers can make a big difference, whether you’re thinking about polyurethane for its flexibility and resistance to UV rays or epoxy for its strong, durable finish.

Think about things like your budget, the intended use of the floor, and the surrounding environment when choosing a polymer coating. A more durable coating like epoxy might be better for high-traffic areas, while polyurethane’s UV resistance might be a better fit for areas that are exposed to sunlight. Remember to account for the ease of application and upkeep, as certain coatings may need more frequent maintenance than others.

The secret to optimizing the advantages of your selected coating is proper installation. It’s important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you want a smooth, durable finish. Peeling and bubbling can be avoided by thoroughly preparing the concrete surface and applying the coating under the right circumstances.

To sum up, polymer coatings have the power to completely change your concrete floors, improving both their look and longevity. Properly choosing and installing the type will guarantee that your floors look fantastic and continue to function well for many years to come. Your investment in polymer coatings will pay off with a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish if you take the time to plan and conduct research.

Video on the topic

Installation of a self-leveling polymer floor covering on an oiled base

Installation of polymer self-leveling floors in a garage near a private house. Polymer floor covering

Make a FLOOR Etalon – epoxy coating for a concrete floor. #makeafloor #justdoit #paintthefloor

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Anna Vasilieva

Journalist with a technical education, specializing in construction topics. I can explain complex technical topics in simple and accessible language.

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