It’s easy to think of sealants and epoxy as the same thing, but they are actually quite different. Because these materials have many of the same applications, it can be difficult to know which one you need.
This article will help you understand the differences between these two materials so you can make an informed decision for your project.
Which is better epoxy or sealer?
- Sealants are generally less expensive and easier to use than epoxy.
- Sealants are designed to keep water out, while epoxies are meant to bond things together.
- Epoxies come in two parts, so you mix them during the application process. A sealant is a single-part chemical that you apply directly from the tube or bottle.
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Can you use epoxy as a sealer?
Yes, epoxy can be used as a sealer. But “epoxy” is such an ambiguous term that we have to clear some things up first.
Some sealers are called “epoxy sealers” and some are called “epoxy coatings.” Epoxy sealers are usually used to make a surface resistant to water and chemicals, but they don’t have the high gloss of epoxy coatings. Like all sealers, they function as a base for other materials—in this case, epoxy coatings which always go over top of epoxy sealer. It’s not just a matter of semantics—make sure you’re using the right product for your project!
Do you seal concrete before epoxy?
Let’s start with sealer. Concrete sealer is a liquid coat applied to the surface of concrete to protect it from the elements. Since concrete is naturally porous, it will soak up water, chlorides, stains, and other contaminants that damage the look and integrity of the surface.
You can use sealer on your basement floor or garage floor to prevent damage from oil spills, antifreeze drips, salt (if you live near a road), etc. Sealant is also useful for homes in cold climates that get de-icers spread on the roads. If your car leaks any fluids onto your garage floor or if you park outside on the street and walk into your home with de-icer on your shoes or tires, you can suffer significant damage to your concrete floors over time if they aren’t sealed!
Does epoxy seal need to be sealed?
Epoxy sealer, like epoxy paint, needs to be sealed. It is porous and will easily absorb any liquids dropped onto it. Sealers can be applied with a roller or a brush. A paint sprayer can also be used in an indoor environment. Don’t forget to keep the spray gun moving at all times to avoid piling up too much of the sealer on your floor
How long does epoxy sealer last?
Epoxy sealers can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. The exact amount of time the sealer will last depends on the conditions and your location.
Can you put epoxy over sealed concrete?
Yes, you can put epoxy over sealed concrete. However, it is imperative that you wait the appropriate amount of time for the sealer to fully cure before applying epoxy coatings. Otherwise, your epoxy will not adhere properly and could begin peeling off prematurely. When in doubt, always check the sealer manufacturer’s recommendations and follow them to a T! You’ll be happy you did later on down the road.
- A Note About Outdoor Concrete:
If you’re applying a new coating to an outdoor surface, opt for an epoxy-based sealer rather than acrylic or latex. Epoxies will give you long-lasting protection against UV rays and water damage (a common problem with outdoor concrete), while acrylics and latexes are more susceptible to these elements.
What is epoxy sealer?
Epoxy is a strong adhesive traditionally used for bonding two surfaces together. It’s a clear or light-tinted liquid plastic that, once applied, dries into a hard coating that won’t pull away from the surface beneath it. Epoxy doesn’t always remain shiny and glass-like after it has dried; sometimes it takes on the same matte appearance as the surface you’ve applied it to, and becomes difficult to distinguish from its surroundings.
Sealant is a flexible chemical coating used to keep water out of an area by filling in gaps and covering cracks. Sealants have more give than epoxies do—they flex with their surroundings rather than drying into an inflexible solid—so they’re particularly useful in situations where movement between parts is likely.
Epoxy sealer is not any one thing: rather, it’s a term used to describe several different kinds of durable coatings that are both adhesive and water-resistant (or waterproof). Usually these coatings are made primarily of epoxy along with fillers and additives that make them more adaptable to use as sealers.
How do you apply epoxy seal coat?
The process of applying an epoxy seal coat is similar to applying other types of coatings: first, the surface must be cleaned and allowed to dry. Next, the epoxy is mixed thoroughly, then poured onto the surface in a thin layer. The sealant is spread evenly over the floor before being allowed to harden and cure.
It’s important that this process be done correctly. Improperly applied epoxy can lead to discoloration or bubbling on your concrete surface. When an epoxy seal coating isn’t applied correctly, it will not last as long as it should and could need replacing more often than expected.
Conclusion
Epoxy is a two-part resin that is mixed and applied as a liquid.
Epoxy is a permanent solution to protect concrete surfaces and is typically used to seal concrete floors.
Sealers are usually single-part products, though some are two-part sealers.
So, what’s the difference between choosing epoxy or a sealer? It depends on the job you need it to do.
