The terms epoxy paint and epoxy coating are often used interchangeably, but they refer to very different products—especially in the commercial and industrial world.
At Crown Coatings, we’ve seen countless businesses waste time and money applying basic epoxy paint when a high-performance epoxy coating was needed. Here’s how to tell the difference and choose what’s right for your space.
What Is Epoxy Paint?
Epoxy paint is a latex- or oil-based paint with a small amount of epoxy resin added. It’s commonly sold in hardware stores and is marketed as a DIY garage floor solution.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and easy to apply
- Enhances appearance temporarily
- Suitable for light-use areas
Cons:
- Thin application (1-2 mils)
- Low abrasion and chemical resistance
- Peels or chips under heavy traffic
- Short lifespan (1-2 years)
What Is Epoxy Coating?
Epoxy coating is a professional-grade flooring solution made of 100% solids epoxy. Applied in multiple layers, it creates a thick, seamless, high-performance surface ideal for demanding environments.
Pros:
- Up to 10x thicker than paint (10+ mils)
- Long-lasting (10-20 years)
- Resists impact, heat, moisture, and chemicals
- Customizable with flakes, colors, and non-slip additives
Cons:
- Requires surface preparation
- Must be applied by trained professionals
Why the Confusion Matters?
Many businesses unknowingly choose epoxy paint thinking it will perform like a professional coating. The result? Cracked, stained, or worn-out floors within months.
Which One Should You Choose?
- For warehouses, manufacturing, and food processing areas: Use epoxy coating.
- For decorative home garages with light traffic: Epoxy paint might suffice.
Don’t compromise your investment. Work with Crown Coatings for long-lasting, professional-grade epoxy systems designed for your business needs.
Reach out now for a site assessment and tailored epoxy recommendations.
