Polished concrete vs. epoxy floor: What’s the best choice?

Polished concrete (left) vs. epoxy floor (right) – what’s the best choice for your residential or commercial space? Both flooring options offer a sleek finish, require little to no maintenance, and last years and years, so the decision will most likely come down to two influential factors: budget and how your space is used.

If budget is a top priority, you may be inclined to opt for polished concrete. Do keep in mind, however, that while concrete finishes may require a smaller upfront investment, they don’t deliver the durability of an expertly installed epoxy floor.

If toughness, safety, and longevity are chief concerns, or your space receives a lot of wear and tear from foot, vehicle, or machine traffic, epoxy flooring is for you. Epoxy flooring also offers a whole host of unique, customisable finishes that you just cannot achieve with concrete alone.

Let’s take a look at the benefits of each flooring option in a little more detail so that you can make an informed decision that benefits you and those that live, work, and play in your space for years to come.

Polished concrete flooring

Polished concrete flooring is economical, attractive, and environmentally-friendly, making it popular among businesses and style-savvy homeowners alike. The smooth, lustrous look is achieved by grinding the surface of the concrete and using a polishing machine to create the desired finish, whether that be matte or a mirror-like gloss.

There are several benefits of polished concrete flooring, including:

• Low maintenance and easy care
• Reduced allergens
• Affordable

Polished concrete doesn’t come without drawbacks. Here is a couple to keep in mind:

• If it is not installed and sealed correctly, it will be extremely susceptible to penetration by moisture. If liquid does make its way into the pores of the concrete, it can quickly lead to mould and mildew.
• It can become extremely slippery when wet, making it a potentially risky choice for commercial and industrial premises.
• Concrete flooring can be loud like ceramic tiles and natural stone.

Epoxy flooring

Concrete floors professionally finished with an epoxy coating are a fantastic choice for those looking for an attractive solution that is durable, low-cost, and, most importantly, safe. Epoxy floors are topped with a specially engineered coating that consists of a hardener and resin. When applied to concrete, the mixture forms a tough, chemical-resistant surface that’s strong enough to withstand just about any set of demands.

Because epoxy is so durable, it’s the ideal solution for spaces that are likely to endure water or chemical spills, heavy foot traffic, machinery traffic, and other activities that would break down less sturdy flooring options.

Beyond its unparalleled durability, epoxy offers the following benefits:

• Reduced allergens and mould
• High aesthetic appeal with ample opportunity for customisation
• Extremely versatile and suitable for use both inside and outside
• Increased light reflectivity by up to 300 per cent
• Environmentally-friendly
• Long lifespan
• Next to no maintenance aside from basic regular cleaning
• Slip-resistant