Best Finish For Concrete Floors (2024 Update)
Choosing the best finish for concrete floors is an important decision that can dramatically impact the look and feel of your space. With so many options available, it’s crucial to consider factors like cost, durability, maintenance requirements, and desired aesthetic before selecting a concrete floor finish. Carefully examining the traffic your floors will receive, whether you prefer a matte or glossy look, and your budget will help narrow your choices. This decision deserves ample research and thought as the finish will need to withstand daily wear and tear. Some key questions to ask yourself are: What type of space is this – residential, commercial, industrial? What level of durability do I need? Is slip resistance important? How often do I want to reapply finishes or sealers? Does the look of stained, polished or painted concrete appeal to me? Answering questions like these will lead you to the ideal concrete floor finish for your unique needs and preferences. With the right finish choice, your concrete floors can become a functional and decorative focal point that stands the test of time.
10 Best Finish For Concrete Floors
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Ideal for protecting and enhancing the appearance of decorative concrete, stone, and other masonry surfaces.
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The product is ideal for creating a non-slip surface on floors, decking, and ramps made of concrete, wood, tile, or metal.
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The product is ideal for sealing concrete surfaces with a quick-drying, safe and easy-to-use water-based acrylic sealer, offering a satin finish.
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This product is ideal for sealing and protecting concrete surfaces such as driveways, patios, and walkways.
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This product is ideal for providing a high-gloss, acrylic seal on showroom floors, concrete surfaces or automotive paint finishes.
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Ideal for coating and sealing concrete floors with a glossy finish, providing protection and durability.
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This product is ideal for enhancing the color and gloss of surfaces while also acting as a sealer.
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Ideal for enhancing the shine and appearance of concrete, stone, and painted surfaces.
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The product is ideal for providing durable gloss and protection to various types of natural and man-made surfaces.
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This product is ideal for sealing and protecting concrete surfaces such as driveways, garages, patios, pool decks, brick, and pavers.
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1. Clear-Seal High Gloss Sealer For Masonry Surfaces
RainguardPro CLEAR-SEAL is a professional-grade acrylic sealer that offers high-quality protection for masonry and wood surfaces. This single-component, self-cross-linking sealer and finish coat is water-based, low-VOC, and low-odor, making it a safe and eco-friendly option. It is designed to protect against chemical spills, staining, UV light, and wear due to heavy foot traffic.
This sealer is formulated with Acrylic Urethane, making it tough and durable, and providing a long-lasting barrier against impacts, heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic, weathering, and UV damage. It is resistant to acids, bases, gasoline, alcohol, oil, and hot tire pickup, making it ideal for use on commercial garages, warehouses, industrial floors, residential driveways, decks, and patios.
RainguardPro CLEAR-SEAL is premixed for easy and convenient applications. It comes ready to use right out of the bottle, and can be applied to porous, dense, and painted masonry and wood surfaces. One gallon of this high-gloss acrylic waterproofer coats, seals, and protects up to 400 square feet, depending on substrate. For those who prefer less sheen, RainguardPro also offers a low-gloss formulation that provides the same enhancing, waterproof protection.
This sealer is easy to apply, and can be used to seamlessly seal wood and masonry surfaces. Before application, it is recommended to protect anything that is not to be sealed by moving or covering it with a tarp. The surface should be prepped by removing dirt, debris, oil, stains, etc., and filling any cracks for best results. Using a lambswood applicator, pump-up sprayer, or airless sprayer, apply the sealer to a dry surface (less than 25% moisture) and wait for at least one hour between coats. After applying to the surface, let the acrylic sealer cure.
RainguardPro is a company that has been manufacturing architectural and industrial coatings since 1969. They are committed to innovation and sustainability, and their products are designed to "wrap" the exterior of buildings and structures. RainguardPro CLEAR-SEAL is just one of their many high-performance sealers that are available for businesses. All of their pro-grade waterproofing solutions are eco-friendly and safe for the applicator, end-user, and environment.
2. Dura Grip Clear Non-Slip Coating.
Dura Grip is a top-quality anti-slip floor paint that provides effective traction on a variety of surfaces such as steel, fiberglass, aluminum, concrete, asphalt, painted surfaces, wood, sports courts, and wood decks. This non-slip epoxy paint coating is incredibly durable and can resist abrasion, fading, and chipping, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
The weather-resistant formula of Dura Grip's anti-slip floor and step paint ensures safe foot traffic in both wet and dry conditions. The synthetic grip texture of the paint is gentle on shoes, bare feet, and paws, making it a safe choice for use in residential or commercial areas. The application of this non-slip paint is easy with a roller, making it ideal for DIY projects.
Dura Grip is a low-maintenance paint that is perfect for use on diamond-plate, metal ramps, garages, boats, decking, trailers, stairs, locker rooms, pools, laundry rooms, and other areas where anti-slip protection is needed. This anti-slip paint is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use in commercial or residential areas. Additionally, the non-skid paint coating is chemical-resistant and durable enough to withstand heavy traffic.
Dura Grip anti-slip textured grip paint is available in a range of colors, including black, clear, dark brown, light gray, medium gray, safety blue, safety yellow, safety red, sand, and white. This gives customers the flexibility to choose a color that complements their decor and meets their requirements.
3. Superseal Water-Based Acrylic Sealer – Satin Finish.
Concrete Coatings SuperSeal 20WB is a water-based sealer that offers a safer alternative to solvent-based sealers. It is perfect for those who are sensitive to strong chemical smells. The low VOC content of this sealer makes it an eco-friendly choice.
The sealer is highly resistant to chemicals and stains, making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as driveways, garages, and warehouses. Its chemical-resistant properties make it perfect for industrial use. The stain-resistant properties of the sealer make it an excellent choice for homes and commercial spaces.
Concrete Coatings SuperSeal 20WB is versatile and can be applied to many porous surfaces. It is perfect for surfaces such as stone, brick, manufactured stone, overlays, and various types of tile. The sealer is designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions and protect your surfaces from damage.
The sealer is easy to apply, and no primer is required. You can use a low-pressure sprayer, short nap roller, or lamb's wool applicator to apply the sealer. Its ease of application makes it perfect for DIY projects.
The sealer dries quickly, allowing you to use your newly sealed surfaces in as fast as 4 hours. Its quick-drying properties make it an excellent choice for those who want to complete their projects quickly.
4. 5 Gal Armor Ar500 High Gloss Solvent Based Acrylic Concrete Sealer And Paver Sealer
The solvent-based acrylic coating is an excellent solution for those seeking a long-lasting and durable finish. It offers unparalleled bonding characteristics, making it perfect for high solids and breathable surfaces. It can withstand abrasion, UV rays, hot tire pick-up, and hot and cold temperatures, making it ideal for a range of outdoor applications.
The coating features a high gloss finish that provides up to 2-5 years of life on a two-coat application before the need for a recoat. It is perfect for bringing out the colors in dull and faded surfaces, making them look brand new.
The versatile coating can be used on various surfaces, including poured concrete, stamped concrete, concrete pavers, aggregate, and more. It is suitable for use on unsealed surfaces or surfaces previously sealed with a solvent-based acrylic.
5. Showroom Finish Hi-Gloss Acrylic Sealer 1-Gallon
This product is designed to provide excellent protection and extend the life of both interior and exterior surfaces, whether coated or uncoated. It boasts superior chemical resistance, waterproofing, and durability. The low odor formula is fortified with urethane, providing a non-yellowing acrylic seal that is highly resistant to wear and tear.
With its fast-drying formula, this product can be applied and will be dry to the touch in just one hour, covering up to 300 sq. ft./gal. depending on surface porosity. Its penetrating properties allow it to deeply penetrate concrete, providing protection against moisture, salt, chlorine, oil, and hot tire pickup.
While it applies as a milky-white substance, it dries to a clear, glossy finish that enhances the natural character of the surface it is applied to. This product is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect and extend the life of their surfaces while maintaining their natural beauty.
6. Clear Solvent Polyaspartic Floor Coating Dk-120 (1galkit). Concrete Floor. Gloss Finish Sealer
The Clear Solvent Polyaspartic Sealer DK-120 (1GalKit) is an excellent choice for those who want to enhance their concrete or cement-based overlayment flooring. This hybrid solvent-based polyaspartic coating is specifically formulated to provide a penetrating, film forming, and color enhancing high gloss wear surface.
DK-120 has a low VOC content of 330 g/L, making it an eco-friendly option for both commercial and residential settings. This sealer is ideal for a wide range of applications, including aircraft hangars, clean room floors, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, bars, clubs, retail stores, automotive showrooms, residential interiors, garage floors, and stadiums. It is perfect for any high traffic area where a resilient floor is desired.
The coverage of DK-120 varies depending on the substrate, but it can cover approximately 300-400 ft² per gallon (28-37 m² per 3.8 liters) with 4-5 mils wet and 2.7-3.5 mils cured. This sealer is a great investment for those who want to protect and enhance their concrete floors with a long-lasting, high gloss finish.
7. Miracle Sealants Hgfs6qt High Gloss Finish Sealer Color & Gloss Enhancers, Quart, Clear, 32 Fl Oz
The interior floor surfaces can now be enhanced with the help of this specially designed product. This product is formulated to accentuate the natural color of the floor surfaces and provide them with a high-quality finish.
The formula used in this product is low in VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) and is entirely water-based, making it safe for use in enclosed spaces. This product is also odorless, which means that there will be no unpleasant smells during or after application. This formula offers superior scuff and wear resistance, ensuring that the floor surfaces remain protected from daily wear and tear.
With a coverage of up to 200 sq. ft. per quart, this product is efficient and cost-effective. It dries to the touch in 1-5 hours, allowing for quick and easy application. This product is also easy to use, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to do their own home repairs or maintenance.
This protective coating is UV transparent, which means that it is resistant to the damaging effects of the sun's rays. It also resists stains, making it easy to maintain the floor surfaces' cleanliness. The high gloss sealer provides a beautiful, low maintenance shine that will not yellow over time.
8. Zep Zuwlff5g Wet Look
The Zep Wet Look Floor Polish is a top-performing product that is perfect for use in high-traffic areas such as supermarkets, lobbies, schools, retail stores, and other commercial spaces. This remarkable polish is designed to provide superior resistance to slips, scuffs, black heel marks, and other common floor damage, while also restoring floors to their former glory.
This product is especially suited for frequently buffed floors, and its clear finish ensures a lasting shine that is sure to impress. To apply, simply use a rayon or microfiber mop to apply four thin coats in a figure 8 motion, and allow the polish to dry for 30 minutes.
The Zep Wet Look Floor Polish is safe for use on a wide variety of interior floors, including rubber, asphalt tile, vinyl composition, sealed concrete, terrazzo, and no-wax vinyl. However, it is important to note that this product is not suitable for use on wood, marble, granite, natural stone, painted or stained concrete, glazed ceramic tile, or newer no-wax vinyl floors.
9. Glossguard Natural Stone Sealer: All-Surface Protection
Introducing a Beautiful Gloss Sealer, specially designed to enhance the appearance and durability of your exposed aggregate, stamped, colored or decorative surfaces. This sealer can be applied with ease by spraying, brushing or rolling on concrete, pavers, slate, driveways, garage floors, patios, masonry, and brick walls.
Unlike other sealers that darken most surfaces, this Beautiful Gloss Sealer will not alter the appearance of your surfaces once it dries. It does not leave any water-like residue that can make your surfaces look unappealing. This sealer is also resistant to chemicals, ensuring that your surfaces maintain their beauty and strength for longer periods.
Before purchasing the Wet Look Sealer, it is recommended that you read the complete product description to understand its features and benefits. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the right product for your needs.
This water-based sealer is VOC compliant, making it environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. It comes with a 100% money-back guarantee, giving you peace of mind knowing that you are investing in a high-quality product that is Made in the USA.
10. Ultimate Concrete Protection: Dryway Water Sealer
This Water-Based Silane & Siloxane solution is specifically designed for porous masonry surfaces such as concrete, brick, block, and pavers. With a clear and matte finish, it provides excellent water-repellency and prevents damage caused by salts and de-icing chemicals.
This non-film forming solution is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, making it versatile and convenient for a range of surfaces. It also boasts an unbeatable service life of up to 7 years, providing long-lasting protection for your surfaces.
This solution is perfect for use on patios, driveways, pool decks, garages, shop floors, sidewalks, and walkways. It ensures a non-slip surface, ensuring safety for all who use it.
Best Finish For Concrete Floors FAQs
Can I apply a finish to outdoor concrete floors?
Yes, you can definitely apply a finish to outdoor concrete floors. In fact, applying a finish to your outdoor concrete floors not only enhances their appearance but also protects them from weather elements such as sun, rain, and snow. There are several types of finishes available for concrete floors, such as sealers, stains, and paints.
Sealers are the most commonly used finish for outdoor concrete floors. They penetrate the concrete surface and create a protective layer that helps prevent water and other substances from penetrating the concrete. Stains are another option that can enhance the appearance of the concrete by adding color and texture. Paints, on the other hand, provide a more durable finish and can be used to create a variety of designs and patterns.
Before applying any type of finish to your outdoor concrete floors, it is important to properly prepare the surface by cleaning and repairing any cracks or damage. It is also important to choose the right type of finish for your specific needs and climate conditions. You may want to consult with a professional or do your own research before applying any finish to your outdoor concrete floors.
Can I use a stain or dye to add color to my concrete floors?
Yes, you can use a stain or dye to add color to your concrete floors. Stains and dyes penetrate the surface of the concrete and create a permanent color that won't fade or peel. They are available in a variety of colors and can be combined to create custom hues.
Stains are usually acid-based and create a marbled or variegated effect on the surface of the concrete. They react with the minerals in the concrete to create a unique color pattern. Dyes, on the other hand, are water-based and create a more consistent color throughout the concrete. They are available in a wider range of colors than stains.
Before applying a stain or dye, it's important to prepare the surface of the concrete by cleaning it thoroughly and removing any existing coatings or sealers. It's also a good idea to test the color on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that it's the desired shade.
Overall, staining or dyeing your concrete floors is a great way to add color and personality to your space. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and take proper safety precautions when working with these products.
How can I achieve a glossy finish on my concrete floors?
Achieving a glossy finish on concrete floors requires proper preparation and the use of the right products and tools. First, you need to ensure that the concrete surface is clean and free from any debris, stains, or imperfections. Use a concrete cleaner and a pressure washer to thoroughly clean the surface. Once the surface is clean, you can apply a concrete densifier to strengthen the surface and increase its durability.
After the densifier has cured, you can start the process of polishing the surface using diamond polishing pads. Start with coarse grit pads and work your way up to finer grits until you achieve the desired level of glossiness. During the polishing process, it's essential to keep the surface wet to prevent dust from accumulating. Once you have achieved the desired level of gloss, you can apply a concrete sealer to protect the surface from stains and damage.
It's important to note that achieving a glossy finish on concrete floors requires skills and expertise. If you're not experienced in concrete polishing, it's best to hire a professional to do the job for you. This will ensure that your concrete floors are polished to perfection and will last for years to come.
How do I prepare my concrete floors for a finish?
Preparing concrete floors for a finish requires some basic steps to ensure that the final product is smooth and long-lasting. Firstly, start by cleaning the floor to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Use a vacuum, broom or pressure washer to get rid of any unwanted material. Secondly, inspect the floor for any cracks, holes, or unevenness. Fill the cracks and holes with a concrete patching compound or epoxy filler. Use a trowel to smooth out the surface and let it dry completely. Thirdly, grind the surface of the floor using a diamond grinder or shot blaster to remove any stains, roughness, or previous coatings. This step helps to create a smooth surface for the finish to adhere to. Fourthly, apply a concrete sealer to the floor to protect it from moisture, stains, and other damage. Finally, apply the finish of your choice, such as epoxy, stain, or paint, following the manufacturer's instructions. By following these steps, you will be able to prepare your concrete floors for a finish that enhances its durability, appearance, and functionality.
How long does a finish typically last on concrete floors?
The lifespan of a finish on a concrete floor depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of finish, the amount of foot traffic, and the level of maintenance. Generally, a well-applied finish can last anywhere from 2-5 years on a concrete floor. However, some types of finishes, such as epoxy coatings, can last up to 10 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
To ensure the longevity of a concrete floor finish, it's important to keep the surface clean and free from abrasive materials. Regular sweeping and mopping can help prevent scratches and other damage that can shorten the life of the finish. Additionally, it's important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that can strip away the protective layer of the finish.
Ultimately, the lifespan of a finish on a concrete floor will depend on the specific circumstances of the environment it's in. By taking proper care and maintenance, you can help extend the life of the finish and keep your concrete floor looking great for years to come.
What are the benefits of using an epoxy coating on concrete floors?
Epoxy coating is a popular choice for concrete floor coating due to its numerous benefits. Firstly, epoxy coating is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear caused by heavy foot traffic, machinery, and chemicals. It also provides a seamless and smooth surface that is easy to clean and maintain, making it suitable for use in a wide range of industrial and commercial settings.
Another advantage of epoxy coating is its ability to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a concrete floor. Epoxy coatings come in a variety of colors and finishes, and they can be used to create unique patterns and designs, adding an element of style to the floor.
Moreover, epoxy coatings are environmentally friendly and can be used to improve the energy efficiency of a building. They have excellent insulating properties and can help to reduce the energy consumption of HVAC systems.
In summary, the benefits of using an epoxy coating on concrete floors include durability, resistance to wear and tear, ease of maintenance, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency.
What is the best way to maintain a finish on concrete floors?
Maintaining the finish on concrete floors is essential to ensure that they remain durable and aesthetically pleasing. The best way to maintain the finish on concrete floors is to clean them regularly and apply a protective coating. Regular cleaning involves removing dirt, dust, and debris that can scratch or damage the surface. To clean the floors, use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
Applying a protective coating is also crucial to maintain the finish on concrete floors. There are several types of coatings available, including sealers, waxes, and polishes. Sealers are the most popular and effective type of coating for concrete floors. They provide a protective barrier that prevents stains, scratches, and moisture from penetrating the surface. Waxes and polishes can also be used to enhance the shine and protect the surface from wear and tear.
In summary, maintaining the finish on concrete floors requires regular cleaning and the application of a protective coating. It is essential to choose the right type of coating based on the level of traffic and usage of the floor. With proper maintenance, concrete floors can remain durable and beautiful for many years.
What is the cost of different finishes for concrete floors?
The cost of different finishes for concrete floors can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the type of finish, the condition of the concrete, the size of the area, and the location of the project.
Some of the popular finishes for concrete floors include stained, polished, sealed, and epoxy coating. Stained concrete floors typically cost between $2 and $4 per square foot, while polished concrete floors can cost between $3 and $8 per square foot. Sealed concrete floors, on the other hand, can cost between $2 and $5 per square foot, and epoxy coating can range from $3 to $12 per square foot.
It's worth noting that the cost of concrete floor finishes can also depend on the level of customization desired. For instance, intricate designs or patterns may require more labor and materials, resulting in a higher cost. Additionally, the cost may also vary depending on the contractor or company hired to do the job.
Overall, it's best to consult with a professional concrete contractor to get a more accurate estimate of the cost of different finishes for concrete floors based on the specific needs of your project.
What is the most durable finish for concrete floors?
When it comes to durability, there are several finishes that can work well for concrete floors. However, one of the most popular and effective options is epoxy coating. Epoxy is a thermosetting resin that creates a strong, durable, and chemical-resistant surface when applied to concrete. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, impacts, and spills without chipping or cracking.
Epoxy coating is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas such as commercial and industrial facilities. It can be customized with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look that enhances the overall design of the space.
Other durable finishes for concrete floors include polyurethane, polyaspartic, and acrylic coatings. Each of these options has its own unique properties and benefits, so it's important to consult with a professional to determine the best choice for your specific needs and budget.
What type of sealant is best for concrete floors?
When it comes to selecting the best type of sealant for concrete floors, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the type of concrete floor you have, as well as the level of traffic it receives.
For high-traffic areas, a penetrating sealant is often the best choice. These sealants penetrate deep into the pores of the concrete, creating a strong barrier against water, stains, and other contaminants. They are also resistant to UV rays and do not require frequent reapplication.
For decorative concrete floors, such as those with stamped or stained finishes, a topical sealant is typically recommended. These sealants sit on top of the concrete surface, providing a glossy finish and enhancing the color of the floor. They are also resistant to abrasion and chemicals.
Ultimately, the best type of sealant for your concrete floor will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is recommended to consult with a professional to determine the most suitable sealant for your concrete floor.
