Selecting the proper concrete coatings for indoor and outdoor projects demands a keen understanding of the environmental impacts on these surfaces. 

Outdoor areas face challenges from UV rays, moisture, and temperature variations, whereas indoor environments require attention to ventilation and stable temperatures. These conditions influence the performance and choice of coatings, guiding professionals toward solutions that best suit each scenario.

Find out which coatings best suit your interior and exterior projects.

WHAT CONCRETE COATING IS BEST FOR INDOOR VS. OUTDOOR SURFACE PREP?

Moisture and temperature significantly impact the choice of concrete coatings, with indoor environments offering a broader range of options due to fewer external constraints. 

While epoxy floor coatings are favored for their durability and aesthetic flexibility, their suitability for outdoor applications is limited. Epoxy struggles in moist environments and experiences extended drying and curing times under varying climate conditions.

For outdoor projects, polyaspartic coatings are highly recommended. They provide quick drying times, excellent UV resistance, and minimal odor, making them well-suited for the unpredictable outdoors. 

These coatings share many advantages with epoxy, such as diverse design options and strong durability, but with the added benefits suited for exterior conditions.

MOST COMMON CONCRETE COATING

Epoxy coatings are the most common concrete coating for indoor environments due to their robustness, extensive design options, and cost-effectiveness. 

Renowned for their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, chemical spills, and abrasions, epoxy coatings are a staple in garages, warehouses, and industrial settings. 

Their wide range of colors and finishes, including metallic and flake designs, also allows customization to fit any aesthetic requirement. 

To further enhance epoxy’s performance, consider using a primer to improve adhesion and a topcoat to increase resistance to UV light and staining, particularly in areas with significant exposure to sunlight or chemicals.

BEST CONCRETE COATING FOR EXTERIOR

For exterior surfaces, polyaspartic coatings stand out as the best option. Their exceptional UV resistance ensures that the coating maintains its color and integrity even under constant exposure to sunlight. 

In addition, polyaspartic coatings can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, making them suitable for various climates. Their quick curing time minimizes downtime, which is crucial for commercial spaces and busy residential areas. 

Polyaspartic coatings are also compatible with decorative chips and quartz, offering additional design flexibility for aesthetically appealing yet functional outdoor spaces.

BEST CONCRETE COATING FOR EXTERIOR CONCRETE STEPS

Acrylic sealers are often recommended for exterior concrete steps due to their excellent UV resistance and ability to repel water, reducing slip hazards in wet conditions. These sealers enhance the natural appearance of concrete while providing a protective layer against wear and tear. 

Adding a non-slip additive to the acrylic sealer for increased durability and traction can improve safety and longevity, making it an ideal choice for steps exposed to the elements.

Regular maintenance of the sealed surface, such as cleaning and reapplication of the sealer every few years, will help maintain its protective qualities and appearance over time.

INDOOR MUST-HAVE EQUIPMENT

Working indoors may limit your options and affect your set-up in some respects, but you still need help. While working indoors, we must understand the unique challenges of indoor environments, such as space constraints and the need for proper air quality management. 

Equip yourself with compact yet efficient machines designed for tight spaces to ensure maneuverability and effectiveness. Investing in air scrubbers or purifiers can significantly improve indoor projects’ air quality, safeguarding the workforce’s health and maintaining compliance with indoor air quality regulations. 

This strategic approach addresses the limitations and turns them into optimized performance and safety opportunities.

WHEN IN DOUBT, STICK TO ELECTRICITY

An underappreciated beauty of modern industrial equipment is the choice of power source. There are numerous benefits between gas, electric, and propane-powered equipment. Each type shares its unique qualities and brings perks to every job.

While space and ventilation play a big part in this discussion, you may want to err on the side of electric-powered surface prep equipment when working indoors. 

Using a device independent of a power cord can be tempting, but electricity is simply the safest option between carbon monoxide poisoning and other potential hazards. Besides, you may be surprised by how much movement you get from these modern machines.

DUST EXTRACTORS

Especially if you’re dry polishing concrete floors, you’ll want an efficient dust collection (complete with HEPA filters) to ensure you and your workers are safe from inhaling crystalline silica and other harmful particles. Whether you go with a heavy-duty continuous extractor or a portable industrial vacuum will likely depend on the size of your space and the extent of the project.

A large warehouse job using multiple onsite workers around the clock will likely require purchasing or renting an industrial dust extractor and, sometimes, acquiring additional extraction methods to complement it.

Of course, outdoor dust extraction is equally essential. Proper safety measures should be taken when producing hazardous dust, whether the job is inside or outside. Refer to your industry standards and CDC guidelines for additional information.

OUTDOOR MUST-HAVE EQUIPMENT

As you may expect, outdoor surface prep work has fewer limitations and provides ample opportunity for personal preference – especially regarding power sources. Recognizing the broad spectrum of outdoor surface prep work, let’s consider the power and versatility provided by propane-powered equipment.

LIQUID GAS OR PROPANE: VERSATILITY MATTERS

At Runyon, we pride ourselves on our propane-powered products. Some significant machines available with propane-powered motors include (but aren’t limited to) grinders, burnishers, dust extractors, power trowels, and floor scrapers.

Whether you’re working on an outdoor or public recreation space or preparing the exterior of a commercial property, gas propane equipment gives you the versatility you need to cover the surface work quickly. 

Moreover, when you go with one of these power options, you limit your need for setting up and are more likely to get started upon arrival. In other words, there’s no need to find the necessary power source or track down an electrician.

And if you want to get working quickly, covering vast amounts of space in the quickest time, ride-on machines like the propane-powered trowel are your best bet.

DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS AND SOLUTIONS

We invite you to explore additional resources to further your understanding and selection of concrete coatings for your projects. Our FAQs answer common questions, and our technical guide offers in-depth information on choosing the correct application coatings.