Polyurea & Polyaspartic

The Perils of Direct-to-Concrete Application of Polyaspartic or Polyurea Coatings

For those seeking to enhance both the aesthetics and durability of their garage floors, the application of concrete coatings presents an appealing solution. Among the array of options, “1-day polyaspartic” and “1-day polyurea” concrete coatings have garnered attention. These systems promise quick installation by utilizing fast-curing polyurea or polyaspartic coatings as both primer and top coats, all completed within a single day.

However, caution is warranted. There are notable drawbacks associated with applying these coatings directly to concrete, particularly in the presence of moisture.

Moisture Concerns

A primary issue with direct-to-concrete application of polyaspartic or polyurea coatings is their limited ability to address moisture-related challenges. Unlike moisture-mitigating coating systems (that use a moisture vapor barrier as the primer coat), which deeply penetrate into concrete substrates, polyaspartic and polyurea coatings struggle to achieve adequate penetration, especially under moist concrete conditions.

This limitation arises partly from their fast-curing nature. These coatings begin curing the minute they are poured on the concrete floor. A rapid cure rate and deep concrete penetration are fundamentally incompatible. For effective penetration and bonding, a slower curing process is necessary.

Chemistry 101

The chemical properties of polyurea-polyaspartics introduce a paradoxical dynamic. These coatings exhibit even faster cure rates in the presence of moisture, whether its moisture from the concrete itself or ambient humidity. Given concrete’s porous nature, moisture ascends by way of a process known as moisture vapor transmission (MVT), exerting upward pressure on the insufficiently penetrating primer. Over time, the thin coating becomes prone to delamination.

Experienced installers measure concrete moisture levels to determine appropriate coating choices. Elevated moisture levels necessitate a moisture vapor barrier…not a polyurea-polyaspartic primer. However, 1-day installers bypass this step altogether, employing quick-curing products for both primer and top coats to meet their promised timeframe (1 day), disregarding moisture considerations.

Here are some photos of delaminated 1-day polyurea-polyaspartic floors. Notice how the thin polyurea layer can be peeled back with only your fingers!

“Smoke and Mirrors” Warranties

Despite the acknowledged risks, 1-day installers offer warranties ranging from 15 years to a lifetime. However, a closer inspection reveals warranty exclusions that nullify coverage for moisture-related issues. Thus, when delamination occurs due to moisture, the warranty proves ineffectual, leaving homeowners burdened with costly repairs.

A Superior Coating Approach

At Garage Floor Coating of New York, we prioritize addressing moisture-related concerns to ensure the longevity and performance of garage floor coatings. Our comprehensive approach commences with a proprietary Moisture Vapor Barrier (MVB) system, designed to effectively counter moisture-related challenges.

This MVB system penetrates deep into the concrete substrate, forming a protective barrier against rising moisture, thereby enhancing penetration, adhesion, and durability. Additionally, we apply two 100%-solids polyaspartic clear coats (not just one like the 1-day guys) for unparalleled protection against wear, UV rays, and chemical spills.

A Two-Day Installation

Unlike 1-day companies, our method involves a slower-curing moisture-mitigating primer coat, allowing for deep concrete penetration and superior bonding. We allocate a full day for penetration, returning only on Day 2 to apply our dual 100%-solids polyaspartic topcoats. Our business model is to give quality precedence over speed.

Backing Our Promise with a Genuine Warranty

Garage Floor Coating of New York stands behind its products and installation process with a comprehensive warranty covering all moisture-related issues and staining from automotive fluids and hot-tire transfer. Our commitment to excellence ensures customer satisfaction and protects your garage floor investment.

In conclusion, while 1-day polyaspartic and polyurea coatings offer expedited installation, they entail significant risks when applied directly to concrete. They prioritize speed over quality; our 2-day coatings give precedence to quality over speed.

Choose Garage Floor Coating of New York and our proven Moisture Vapor Barrier system for superior protection against moisture-related damage, backed by our reliable warranty. Don’t settle for inferior coatings; safeguard your investment with us.