Polished Concrete vs Resin Coating Systems: Which is the Best Solution for Commercial Businesses?

Lime Flooring

Which solution is right for your business?

As a commercial business owner, deciding the right flooring solution for your space can be challenging. Good news, you’ve arrived at the right place!

The decision to choose between polished concrete or resin coating systems depends on a variety of factors, including aesthetics, sustainability, maintenance, and durability. In our latest blog, we will examine the advantages and disadvantages of polished concrete and resin coating systems, and ultimately determine which is the best solution for a commercial business.

Looking to discuss this further before reading on? Head to our contact form HERE to book a consultation with our expert team!


Aesthetics

When it comes to aesthetics, both polished concrete and resin coating systems have their unique advantages.


Polished concrete floors offer an industrial, modern look that can add character and style to any commercial space. Polished concrete floors can be customised to suit your design preferences with options for different levels of shine, patterns, and colours. However, the installation process for polished concrete floors is labour-intensive and requires more time, effort, and expertise.

Resin coating systems offer a wide variety of design options and can be customised to suit any design preferences, including patterns, colours, and textures. Resin coating systems can mimic the look of other flooring materials, such as wood or stone. The installation process for resin coating systems is faster and requires less expertise compared to polished concrete floors. However, resin coating systems may be more prone to scratches and wear and tear over time.


Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly essential consideration when choosing flooring solutions. Polished concrete is considered a sustainable option because it avoids the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing, transporting, and installing additional materials. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standard includes guidelines on how using polished concrete flooring can help qualify for LEED credits. Polished concrete floors also require less energy to maintain and clean compared to resin coating systems.


Resin coating systems can also be sustainable, depending on the type of resin used. Epoxy resins, for example, are made from oil-based materials and are not environmentally friendly. However, there are now eco-friendly options available that use water-based resins, making them a sustainable option for commercial spaces.


Maintenance

Maintenance is a critical factor to consider when choosing a flooring solution for commercial spaces. Polished concrete floors require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for areas that need minimal levels of active maintenance over long periods. They can easily be cleaned using water and a low-pH cleaner, which can save time and money.


Resin coating systems require more maintenance compared to polished concrete floors. Epoxy resin floors require additional detergents and additives to prevent dust and debris buildup. When epoxy floors degrade, cleaning becomes even more challenging.


Durability

Durability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a flooring solution for commercial spaces. Polished concrete floors are highly durable and can withstand heavy traffic and footfall without chipping or cracking. They are resistant to water and moisture, making them ideal for areas that need protection against moisture damage or have a very high footfall.


Resin coating systems are also durable, but they may be more prone to scratches and wear and tear over time, making them less suitable for high-traffic areas.


When deciding between polished concrete and resin coating systems for commercial spaces, there are several factors to consider, such as aesthetics, sustainability, maintenance and the durability of the area. For high-traffic, large spaces, such as supermarkets, busy shops and commercial storage units and yards, a polished concrete finish is ideal. For a beautiful finish over a smaller space, with less footfall, a resin coating system is the way to go, often seen in showrooms, luxury stores and high-end offices.


Ready to find out more about which flooring solution would be best for your business? Click HERE to get in contact with us today!

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