Understanding Concrete Coatings in Canada: A Complete Overview

Concrete coatings are a simple and effective way to protect and improve the look of your concrete floors. However, without proper protection, concrete can be damaged due to chemicals, moisture, and constant foot traffic. And, with extreme temperature fluctuations in Canada, your concrete floors need a durable coating to protect against both freeze-thaw cycles and sun damage.  

The challenge, however, is picking the right one. With so many options out there, it can be a bit tricky to choose the one that’s durable, protective, and long-lasting.  In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best concrete coating options in Canada, making it easy for you to find the perfect solution to meet your needs.

Types of Concrete Coatings 

Epoxy Floor Coating

Epoxy floor coatings are among the most durable, formed by combining epoxy resin and a hardener. They create a tough, chemical-resistant layer that is perfect for industrial and high-traffic areas like garages and warehouses. Comprising bisphenol-based resins, polyamine hardeners, and fillers like silica or quartz, epoxy coatings have a tensile strength of around 10,000 psi. 

Depending on the application, epoxy concrete floor coating in Canada comes in 100% solid or solvent-based formulations, with varying thicknesses ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm. 

Polyurethane Coating

Renowned for its flexibility and resistance to UV damage, Polyurethane coating is ideal for outdoor applications. They are commonly used on parking lots, outdoor decks and as a protective topcoat over epoxy, extending the lifespan of the underlying layer. 

These coatings are composed of polyols and isocyanates, which create a durable polymer that can withstand impacts and substrate movement. With a tensile strength of approximately 4,000 psi, polyurethane coatings are less rigid than epoxy but offer superior elasticity and gloss retention under sunlight.  Also, these coatings cure faster than epoxy, typically within 12 to 24 hours.

Acrylic Coating

Acrylic coatings comprise acrylic polymers derived from methacrylic acid and include fillers, pigments, and UV blockers. You can get them in solvent-based or water-based varieties, and the solids concentration can be anywhere from 30% to 50%. Their tensile strength is only about 2,000 psi, so they’re not very sturdy and should only be used in low-traffic areas. However, they dry rapidly, usually within one to three hours.

Patios, driveways, and ornamental flooring in homes can be coated with acrylic for an attractive and reasonably priced option. 

Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) Coating

These coatings are unique due to their rapid curing time, often drying within 30-60 minutes. Methyl Methacrylate coatings are composed of MMA resin and peroxide-based hardeners. They are highly resistant to extreme temperatures, chemicals, and wear. 

With a tensile strength of approximately 7,000 psi, MMA coatings are ideal for cold storage rooms, industrial kitchens, and outdoor applications where quick installation is crucial. Their solvent-free, 100% solids formulation ensures excellent durability and minimal downtime.

Polyaspartic Coating

Lastly, polyaspartic floor coatings combine the benefits of rapid curing and decorative versatility. Their ability to incorporate decorative elements like flakes and metallic pigments makes them a preferred choice for garage floors, outdoor patios, and commercial spaces.

These are derived from aliphatic polyurea and isocyanates, cure within 1 to 4 hours, and offer excellent UV stability and durability. With a thickness ranging from 2 to 15 mils, polyaspartic coatings are highly durable and have a tensile strength of about 5,000 psi. 

How to Choose the Right Coating for Your Needs

Here are some key points to consider when choosing the right concrete coating in Canada for your needs:

Assess Traffic and Usage

Determine the level of foot or vehicle traffic in the area where the coating will be applied. High-traffic zones such as warehouses or garages require coatings with higher durability and resistance to abrasion, while residential spaces might prioritize aesthetic appeal.

Chemical Resistance 

If you’re in an environment that deals with chemicals—like an industrial kitchen or garage—make sure you choose a coating with strong resistance to spills, stains, and wear. ​Commercial epoxy flooring is an excellent option, as it helps maintain the space’s appearance and functionality for a longer period.

Evaluate Cure Time

Cure time matters when you’re trying to minimize downtime. If you need to get the space back in use quickly, go for coatings that cure faster.

Aesthetic Preferences

You’ll want the coating to match the overall design of the space. Some coatings offer decorative options like custom colours, textures, or finishes, while others focus more on function. Decide what fits your style and the mood you want to create.

Budget Considerations

Coating products vary in cost, and it’s essential to balance your desired features with your budget. Keep in mind that while a higher upfront cost may be necessary for more durable or decorative options, it can save money on maintenance or replacements in the long run.

Safety Considerations

Some coatings offer non-slip finishes or enhanced safety features, which can be particularly useful in outdoor areas and workspaces that may become wet or slippery.

At Chromology, we specialize in supplying high-performance coatings and materials for a variety of flooring needs. We offer top-quality concrete floor coatings, industrial floor paints, polyurethane coatings for wood, and much more. As a trusted supplier and distributor, we provide all the materials and equipment necessary for epoxy flooring projects, ensuring you have everything you need for the best results. Contact us today!