FAQ: Epoxies and Urethanes

It is first necessary to explore the differences between epoxies and urethanes. Epoxies are compounds that are composed of two different kinds of chemical components. These are resins and hardeners. These two chemical components are liquids separately but, turn into a solid when they are combined. Epoxies are durable and resistant to degradation from many types of chemicals. They are also highly adhesive as they make the transition from liquid to solid.

Urethanes have similar properties to epoxies. However, they are more durable, have better gloss and colour retention abilities. They are also more resistant to UV rays so they are better for areas that are exposed to direct sunlight. Urathanes also tend to have superior resistance to engine fluids, acids and alkalies. All of these benefits can be achieved with a top coat of urethane.

There are a number of factors that need to be considered when using epoxies and urethanes. This is particularly true when it comes to their use in flooring systems. When installing an epoxy floor coating system it is necessary to prepare the surface. Floor surface preparation is important for cleaning, etching and degreasing concrete floors. The use of a diamond grinder or shot blaster will remove a fine layer of concrete substrate. This removes a lot of the contaminants from the floor surface. A clean floor with few contaminants allows epoxies to adhere to the surface better.

There are some properties of the finished floor that need to be considered. The first is that Neoseal does use a UV inhibitor. However, it does not provide complete UV protection. For a higher level of UV protection it is recommended that you use Neoseal High Performance Clear UV Top Coat.

There are always concerns about the surface being slippery. These surfaces are not more slippery then regular concrete surfaces. A slip resistant additive can be added to the top coat to create a more slip resistant surface. The non-skid surface will last about 5 years.