Epoxy vs. Polyurethane vs. Acrylic: Selecting the Right Paint

It is well known that epoxy is the “strongest” paint widely available on the market. But if you call us asking for an "Epoxy floor" for your outdoor patio, we will try to talk you out of it.

Why? Because while Epoxy is the thickest and strongest paint - it has weaknesses. Epoxy lacks flexibility, it is more challenging to apply and it generally comes at a premium price that you might not need to pay.

Due to these factors - epoxy is considered a specialist paint, not a “one size fits all” solution.

Here is the plain-English breakdown of the three big players - Epoxy, Polyurethane, and Acrylic - and which one you actually need.

Epoxy: The Toughest, Chemical Resistant Paint Epoxy is the workhorse of the industrial paint world. It is famous for depth and durability. It is thick, self-levelling, and bonds to concrete better than almost anything else. It fills the cracks and hides the imperfections. The Strength: It creates a smooth, glass-like surface that is incredibly hard, chemically resistant and capable of filling cracks in concrete. Designed to withstand constant heavy machinery traffic. Two-Pack Epoxy lives up to its reputation as a strong, reliable coating. The Weakness: It is difficult to apply, expensive and lacks flexibility required for some different applications. Best For: Industrial spaces that experience heavy traffic, internal garages, kitchens and areas that experience heavy chemical cleaners.

Polyurethane (PU): The Low-Impact Industrial Paint

Think of Polyurethane as the entry-level industrial paint. While it isn’t as strong as epoxy paints, not every floor needs that level of strength. Where it is weaker than epoxy in durability, it more than makes up for this in ease-of-use and affordability.

• The Strengths: Polyurethane paint is an industrial grade solution available at a much lower price point than two-pack epoxy paints. It is much easier to apply, since it is a single-pack solution there are no chemical curing time limits - you don't have to race against the clock when applying this product.
• The Weakness: It is thin. You won't get a "high build" finish with PU alone; it won't hide the texture of the concrete. It is also very sensitive to moisture during application.
• Best For: Low impact industrial spaces, residential garages.

Acrylic: Perfect for Outdoors

We always recommend acrylic paints for exterior applications. Its greatest strength is its flexibility and UV resistance - it is able to expand and contract with the changing climate. As this paint is water-based, it is generally considered to be much more environmentally friendly than oil-based solvent alternatives. Acrylic water-based paint also has minimal toxic fumes in comparison to alternatives.

• The Strengths: The flexibility and UV resistance make it ideal for outdoor applications. Low fumes. Eco-friendly.
• The Weakness: It lacks the industrial grade strength of PU and chemical resistance of epoxy paints.
• Best For: Exterior patios, block paving, residential storage spaces.

*Information is correct for Everest products - other manufacturers may vary.

The Cheat Sheet: Quick Comparison

Conclusion

Don't rely on one paint to do everything.

• If you need extreme thickness and strength -> Use Epoxy.
• If you need a cost effective, industrial grade solution -> Use Polyurethane.
• If you are painting outdoors -> Use Acrylic.

Not sure which product is right for your facility? Call our technical team to design your custom Flooring System today.