Coating Types
Four ways to finish a concrete floor. Here’s how they actually differ.
Epoxy, polyaspartic, polished concrete, and stained concrete solve different problems at different price points. Every system starts with the same first step — assessing the slab and grinding it to the depth it needs — but cure time, cost, and how the finish holds up long-term vary a lot. Pick a type below for the full breakdown, or call for help choosing.
Epoxy Coating
The affordable, well-proven base system. Flake and metallic decorative finishes are built on epoxy. Often paired with a polyaspartic topcoat for faster cure and better UV stability.
$5–$10/sq ft · 24–72hr foot traffic cure
See epoxy detailsPolyaspartic Coating
Cures in hours, not days — foot traffic in 4–6hrs, vehicles in about 24. Better UV stability than straight epoxy. Often applied as a topcoat over an epoxy base.
$5–$12/sq ft · 4–6hr foot traffic cure
See polyaspartic detailsPolished Concrete
Mechanical grind-and-polish, not an applied coating — the concrete itself is polished to a satin sheen. Permanent, with zero coating-failure risk. Popular for basements and flex rooms.
Priced by slab condition — ask for a fixed estimate
See polished concrete detailsStained Concrete
Acid or water-based stain sealed with a topcoat, for a mottled, variegated color effect without a thick applied coating. A strong fit for patios and interior spaces.
Priced by slab condition — ask for a fixed estimate
See stained concrete details