A concrete coating is a resin floor system, such as epoxy or polyaspartic, that bonds to a prepared concrete slab. It creates a hard, wipeable surface that can be a solid color or decorated with flakes.
Types of Concrete Coating, Indoors and Out
“Concrete coating” is the broad label. Contractors and stores use it for almost anything that goes on a slab, from garage floor systems to patio products to clear sealers. A few points sort it out:
- Film coatings vs. penetrating sealers. Resin coatings sit on top as a visible layer. A penetrating sealer soaks in and bonds with the concrete and doesn’t alter the surface appearance, so there’s nothing to peel.
- Outdoor concrete has different needs. Driveways and patios face sun, snow, and road salt. Sun matters because plain epoxy can yellow, while polyaspartic resists color and gloss changes from UV light.
- Indoor floors usually get a full system. In basements, garages, and shops, that’s a primer, color or flake, and a clear topcoat. That’s covered on our concrete floor coating page.
For help choosing between epoxy, polyaspartic, and other finishes, see our guide to concrete floor coatings.
Concrete Coating FAQ
What’s the best coating for concrete?
It depends on where the concrete is and what it faces. Indoors, an epoxy base with a polyaspartic or polyurethane topcoat is common. Outdoors, a penetrating sealer or a UV-stable coating holds up better than plain epoxy.
How long do concrete coatings last?
A professional resin floor system built for its traffic should last ten years or more. Thin DIY paints wear out much sooner. Good prep and a sound, dry slab matter as much as the product.