GatorGuard Concrete Coatings: Two-Day Installation: Is the Extra Time Really Worth It?

Two-Day Installation: Is the Extra Time Really Worth It?

In today’s fast-paced world, the idea of a one-day polyurea-polyaspartic coating system is incredibly appealing. Who wouldn’t want a quick installation? However, as with many quick solutions, the reality often involves more headaches down the line.

Time and again, we’ve seen that rushing through critical processes typically results in repairs and unnecessary hassles, both of which cost more time and money. It begs the question: “If you don’t have the time to do it right, when will you have the time to do it over?”.

The Limitations of One-Day Systems

One-day systems often fail because they prioritize speed over thoroughness. These systems use fast-curing polyurea-polyaspartics for both the primer coat and topcoat in order to finish the application in the promised single day. But, as you will learn, this leads to insufficient concrete bonding and moisture management.

Why? Because when polyurea-polyaspartics are used as primer coats, these fast-cure coatings cure even faster in the presence of moisture in the concrete or air (well under an hour). This is insufficient time for the polyurea-polyaspartic primer to properly penetrate and bond with the concrete substrate. And the entire coating system is only as strong as its primer coat.

This rush application (and use of the wrong primer) can cause the coating to bubble, peel, or lift, especially over concrete with medium to high moisture levels. Without adequate time to let the primer cure properly, the overall durability of the coating is compromised.

The Comprehensive Two-Day Approach

A two-day installation process, while slower, ensures a much more robust and durable floor. On the first day, a slower-curing, moisture-mitigating 100%-solids epoxy primer is applied as a moisture vapor barrier. This high-build (read “thick”) coating deeply penetrates and bonds to the concrete slab below to create a solid, moisture-resistant foundation. This primer needs time to penetrate and cure correctly, we typically allow a full day, forming a strong bond with the concrete substrate.

The second day involves the application of two separate 100%-solids polyurea-polyaspartic top coats (one day applicators only apply a single coat of a less-than-100%-solids topcoat). While the epoxy primer protects against potential moisture-related issues, the polyurea-polyaspartic top coats provide the UV, stain and chemical resistance. Notice that we do use polyurea-polyaspartics…but as top coats only; never as direct-to-concrete primers. That is, we use the right coating types at the right step to produce the most durable coating.

This two-step process not only manages moisture effectively but also ensures the coating can withstand heavy use and environmental stress.

Warranty Considerations

A significant drawback of one-day systems is their warranty exclusions. Many of these systems do not cover moisture-related damages, which are the most common cause of failures. (They can’t due to the use of the polyurea-polyaspartic as a primer coat). This exclusion often leaves homeowners with unexpected repair costs. By contrast, two-day systems, which thoroughly address moisture management, offer more comprehensive warranties against moisture-related issues, giving homeowners peace of mind.

Weather Impacts and Long-Term Benefits

Louisville’s weather, with its hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters, adds an extra layer of challenge for concrete coatings. These extreme conditions can exacerbate the issues associated with one-day systems. By investing in a two-day installation by local pros, Louisville homeowners can ensure their floors remain durable and visually appealing despite the challenging climate. Taking the time for a thorough installation ultimately saves time and money, providing a long-lasting solution that withstands our diverse weather conditions.

About GatorGuard Concrete Coatings Louisville

”At GatorGuard, we set ourselves apart from other floor coating contractors by offering the highest quality products, comprehensive warranties, and the best installation and customer service. But we don’t stop there—all our epoxy floor coatings are installed with our GatorShield moisture mitigation barrier to help prevent delamination, which can occur from hydrostatic pressure. We also offer a White Glove service, where we will handle the removal, storage, and replacement of all your furniture and belongings, so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Contact GatorGuard today to learn more about our epoxy floor coating options and to schedule a consultation at your Louisville, KY home.”