Epoxy Coatings: Popular But Problematic — Here's Why

When it comes to durable and attractive floor coatings, epoxy has been a popular option for years. However, homeowners and business owners alike are starting to ask important questions about its long-term performance and reliability. While epoxy coatings offer some benefits, there are several drawbacks that can impact their overall value.

In this blog, we’ll explore the disadvantages of epoxy floor coatings, address common concerns and explain why polyaspartic coatings are a superior epoxy alternative for those looking for a stronger, more efficient solution.

Let’s get started!

Common Questions About Epoxy

What is epoxy?

Epoxy coatings are composed of two parts: a resin and a hardener.

Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is epoxy? While the term might sound familiar, not everyone knows what this coating really is or how it's used. In simple terms, epoxy is made by blending resins with a hardener. When mixed, they create a chemical reaction that produces a glossy, durable finish that sits on the surface.

One of the appealing aspects of epoxy coatings is their versatility. They come in a variety of colors and textures, so you can easily personalize your space. Whether you prefer a smooth, modern look or a more decorative, textured design, epoxy offers plenty of options to match your style.

How long does an epoxy floor coating last?

The lifespan of an epoxy floor can vary quite a bit depending on factors like how well it's installed, the type of epoxy used and the amount of foot or vehicle traffic it gets. In most residential settings, a well-installed and maintained epoxy floor can last anywhere from five to ten years. However, in busy commercial or industrial spaces, where the floor takes a lot more wear and tear, it usually only lasts about two to five years.

Over the years, we’ve come across plenty of failed epoxy floors — whether from poor installation, damage from dropped items or issues like hot tire pickup. Many homeowners also find themselves needing to perform regular maintenance on their epoxy floors to keep them in good shape.

Should I epoxy my concrete floors?

We have a confession to make: We are not the biggest fans of it. Epoxy can give the illusion of a glossy and protective floor, but the drawbacks outweigh the aesthetics. If you want a stunning and equally protective floor, it's time to look elsewhere.

What are the cons of epoxy floor coatings?

If you have been following along so far, we have touched on some disadvantages of epoxy, but let's lay them out.

Failure to bond properly to the concrete can cause epoxy to delaminate and peel away.

Epoxy is vulnerable to cracking, flaking, chipping and hot tire pickup.

1. Epoxy floors are not UV resistant. When UV rays from the sun hit the cured epoxy, it will turn yellow. This natural occurrence may not bother some aesthetically, but this is a sign of your floor degrading and weakening. After yellowing, epoxy floors are prone to delamination, cracking and losing that new shiny top coat look.
2. Epoxy floors are weather-sensitive. It is natural for concrete to expand and contract due to fluctuations in temperature. Epoxy has little flexibility, so when concrete experiences these changes, it can cause the floor coating to crack or delaminate.
3. Epoxy floors have a long curing time. Getting your belongings off the floor and out of the space you want to coat is already a lot of work. Finding a place to store your stuff while epoxy floors cure is another can of worms. Epoxy floors can take up to 7 days until you are allowed to use them as usual.
4. Epoxy floors don't prevent surface scratches. If you have an epoxy floor in a high-traffic area or in a space like a garage where you might occasionally drop a heavy tool, epoxy is prone to scratch and chip over time.
5. Epoxy floors can be slippery. Epoxy flooring typically does not have slip-resistance technology when installed. This could lead to slips and falls when the area is wet or dirty.

Is there a better coating than epoxy?

Yes! While epoxy floor coatings can be suitable for specific spaces, epoxy has limitations, from installation to lifelong maintenance. If you want your concrete coating to last, it is beneficial to look at other options — especially for high-traffic areas and spaces exposed to Iowa's diverse weather and natural elements. At Hello Garage of Des Moines, we have just the thing: our polyaspartic floor coating.

Polyaspartic: The Best Epoxy Alternative

Our engineers tested many floor coating alternatives until we got it right. We use a 100% polyaspartic blend, a product we believe in and trust so much that we offer a lifetime industry-leading warranty.

Polyaspartic Benefits

1. Polyaspartic bonds with the concrete. When our polyaspartic blend is installed on your concrete, there is a chemical reaction that happens — the polyaspartic bonds into the top layer of concrete, protecting it for the long run.
2. Polyaspartic floors are UV resistant. Our polyaspartic blends protect against UV rays. When the sun shines, you don't have to worry about your floor coating breaking down or yellowing.
3. Polyaspartic floors are protective through all weather. When polyaspartic bonds to the concrete, it stays flexible, allowing it to expand and contract with your concrete through the changing weather.
4. Polyaspartic floors have a short curing time. Unlike epoxy floors, polyaspartic floor installation time is very short. Installation takes about a day, and 24 hours later, you can use it like normal.
5. Polyaspartic protects against all damage. If you have ever dropped a hammer and saw a chip or crack in your floor afterward, you won't have to worry about this happening with polyaspartic flooring. It protects against all types of damage from high-traffic areas, drop-impact and hot tire pick-up.
6. Polyaspartic is slip-resistant and easy to clean. Just as it says, polyaspartic has a slip grip, so even if there are spills, you don't need to worry about slipping while cleaning it up. Polyaspartic floors are also effortless to clean. Just use a bit of simple green, let it sit and wipe it up.
7. Polyaspartic comes in a wide range of unique colors: Our polyaspartic coating features a granite-like finish and is available in an array of colors to complement all styles and tastes.

From peeling epoxy...

...to stunning polyaspartic.

Reliable Floor Coating Installation by Hello Garage of Des Moines

Considering upgrading your boring concrete with a polyaspartic coating? Leave it to the pros at Hello Garage of Des Moines! Call us today at 1-844-431-1700 or contact us online to get started with a free consultation and estimate! We proudly serve Iowa homeowners and businesses in Des Moines, Ames, Ankeny and the surrounding area.