Concrete coatings have changed what people think of concrete flooring. They improve plain, unprotected concrete to a more visually aesthetic, durable, and safe floor. Whether it’s a garage, a patio, or a commercial facility, deciding to put a coating on concrete is a big decision. Understanding how costs are affected will allow for a more information based decision.
Not All Coatings are Equal
There are different types of coatings available, which means there are different prices for coating options. Each coating type has different features, performance, and prices.
- Epoxy coatings are the most common and most popular and affordable coating option at anywhere from $3 to $10 per an installed square foot. They are a very attractive, shiny coating that can have strong chemical resistance, and are suited for garages or manufacturing spaces that have foot traffic.
- Polyurea coatings are flexible, fast curing, and possess durability ranging in price from $6 to $8. They are great for temperature-changing environments such as automotive shops and warehouses.
- Polyaspartic coatings are a high-end finish coat with great UV stability and long-lasting protection. These coatings generally dependable range from $6 to $9 per square foot and are great for both indoor and outdoor applications. They never fail to provide a clean polished professional finish in outdoor conditions.
Whatever you decide to use, consider the application location and durability. Choose what works best for your budget and overall requirements.
Preparation is a Major Component
Before applying any coating, surface preparation of the concrete will be necessary and that can have a substantial financial burden. If your surface is cracked, stained or uneven, be prepared for added labor and materials in correcting these problems. Building a flat, long-lasting surface for the coating to adhere to will require grinding, cleaning, and patching. If you skip or rush this preparation phase, the application may fail, costing you more in the end.
The current state of your concrete is one of the biggest factors which drives up the cost of your project. A well-prepped surface simply lasts longer. It is an investment well worth making!
Customization and Complexity Bring Value
Lastly, the costs of your project can increase based on the look and functionality you desire with your new coating. For example, when you incorporate custom colors, textures, or patterns, it not only adds more time and skill into the process but it also creates a beautiful distinguishing characteristic of your floor. In conjunction, coating stairs, edges, or other difficult to reach areas will also drive up labor costs as those areas take additional work.
It should also be noted that while DIY kits for lower-grade epoxies or concrete paint may appear less expensive, they rarely provide a professional minimum product. With no surface preparation or appropriate tools, those coatings often begin to peel or fade within one year. On the contrary, a professionally applied coating can last 10 years or longer, which ultimately saves time, money, and frustration.
Bring Lasting Value to Your Space
Concrete coatings are not just about the visual aspect; they are also a protective product, related to performance, safety, and lifespan. Understanding what affects cost can assist you in making a confident decision toward your goals and budget.
If you are ready to take your floor and space to the next level with a high-quality installed, waterproof finish, reach out to Elite Coatings today. We specialize in professional concrete coating installation that is designed to look great and last for years.
Visit our website to schedule a consultation!
