14 decisions, both sides argued
Every decision, both sides
Each comparison gives the verdict first, then a full table, then the honest case for the option we did not pick. Including the ones where the cheaper answer is the right one.
- Epoxy vs PolyasparticUse both. Epoxy underneath, polyaspartic on top. Go full polyaspartic only for one-day, cold-weather or outdoor work.
- Epoxy coating vs Polished concreteThe condition of your slab decides this more than your preference does.
- Flake vs MetallicFlake for rooms you use. Metallic for rooms you look at.
- Flake vs Solid colourFlake for almost every residential floor. Solid colour where an exact colour or safety zoning is the point.
- DIY kit vs Professional installDIY only for a floor you do not intend to keep. Otherwise the kit is a detour that costs more.
- Full coating vs Densifier onlyDusting alone is a densifier job. Anything beyond that needs a coating.
- Seamless epoxy or quartz vs Quarry tileResin, in almost every case. The tile usually outlives the grout by a decade.
- Diamond grinding vs Acid etchingNot close. Etching is why coatings lift, and it is the single most useful question to ask a contractor.
- Coating vs Interlocking tilesCoating, unless you are renting or the slab is too damaged to bond to. Tiles are a floor covering, not a floor.
- Epoxy coating system vs One-part floor paintNot a fair fight. Paint is a colour change, not a floor. The only honest comparison is against doing nothing.
- Polyaspartic vs PolyureaThey are the same family, and the marketing distinction is mostly a branding exercise. Ask about film build and warranty instead.
- Quartz broadcast vs Flake epoxyFlake for anything residential. Quartz wherever the floor gets wet, hot or washed down with chemistry.
- Repair and coat vs Replace the slabRepair and coat, unless the slab is moving, structurally cracked or drains the wrong way.
- Polished concrete vs Luxury vinyl plankVinyl plank for comfort. Polished concrete for a basement that has ever been damp, or ever might be.
Still deciding?
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