Collection: Concrete Coatings

Test the slab's moisture vapor emission rate (MVER) using a calcium chloride test or an in-situ RH probe. If MVER is under 3 lbs/1000 sq ft/24 hrs, a standard epoxy primer is fine. Between 3–10 lbs, specify a moisture-tolerant primer like APF Epoxy 200. Above 10 lbs, you may need a vapor mitigation system before any coating is applied. Never skip this test on slabs on grade or below grade. Applying standard epoxy over a high-moisture slab causes delamination — usually within months of installation.

Most epoxy systems require ICRI CSP 2–4 for proper adhesion. CSP 2–3 (equivalent to light diamond grinding) is appropriate for thin-film systems under 6 mils DFT. CSP 3–4 (medium grind or shot blast) is required for 100% solids systems at 10+ mils. Never apply coating to a slab that has only been acid-etched — acid etching is not a reliable mechanical profile and most manufacturers' warranties exclude acid-etched substrates. We stock diamond tooling for surface prep — call us to spec the right prep process.

Both are UV-stable, abrasion-resistant topcoats used over epoxy base coats. The key differences: Polyaspartic cures significantly faster — most systems allow return to light foot traffic in 2–4 hours vs. 12–24 hours for standard polyurethane. This makes polyaspartic the spec for occupied buildings and tight-schedule retail buildouts. Polyurethane generally offers better long-term chemical resistance and is the standard for industrial and food-service environments. Polyaspartic can also be applied in a wider temperature range, making it viable in colder ambient conditions where standard PU won't cure reliably.

Yes, but the existing coating must be in good condition — no delamination, bubbling, or adhesion failure. Lightly diamond grind or sand the surface to CSP 1–2, clean thoroughly, and confirm there's no moisture infiltration from below. If the existing coating has failed areas, mechanically remove them before recoating. Applying new epoxy over a failing coating just traps the problem and accelerates total failure. Call us if you're not sure — we can help you evaluate whether regrind-and-recoat or full removal is the right call.

Pot life varies significantly by product and ambient temperature. Most APF 100% solids epoxy systems have a pot life of 20–40 minutes at 70°F. At 85°F, expect 30–40% shorter pot life. In hot conditions, mix smaller batches and work faster — you cannot extend pot life once components are mixed. In cold conditions (below 50°F), cure slows dramatically and some systems won't achieve full cross-link. Contact us before applying any coating in temperatures outside 50–90°F ambient — we'll advise on whether the product is suitable and what adjustments to make.

Yes. We stock Torginol decorative color chips and flake blends in multiple sizes and color blends for broadcast applications. The standard system: apply 100% solids epoxy base coat, broadcast chips to rejection (full broadcast) into wet epoxy, allow to cure, scrape and vacuum excess chips, then apply polyaspartic or polyurethane topcoat. Chip size and broadcast density affect the final look and the amount of topcoat required. Call us with your square footage and design spec — we'll calculate chip quantity and topcoat volume before you order.