How to Choose the Right Basement Floor Coating for Moisture Control
If you have a basement in your North Carolina home, you’ll know it can get very damp down there. Wilmington homes, in particular, tend to have damp basements because of the area’s high humidity and rainfall levels.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking for dampness control solutions for your basement or a business owner who wants to protect a commercial space, you need the right strategies.
These include investing in basement coatings for floors to manage moisture effectively and prevent mold or structural damage. The following guide will walk you through the different types of basement floor coatings. It will also help you determine whether you can DIY your basement floor coating or if you should hire a professional to do it.
Types of Basement Floor Coatings
Not all basement floor coatings are created equal, especially if your goal is to create a moisture-resistant barrier.
1. Epoxy Floors
Epoxy floors are popular with home and business owners. Epoxy creates a hard, impermeable surface, which is what you need to resist chemicals, water, and stains. This material bonds to concrete, resulting in a glossy finish. Epoxy coatings are available in various colors and finishes, making it easy to find the perfect balance between function and modern aesthetics.
2. Polyurethane Coatings
Epoxy is not the only good option for basement floors. Polyurethane offers excellent moisture control and is resistant to abrasion, water infiltration, and chemicals. Polyurethane is also more UV-stable than epoxy, making it a better option for basements with windows that receive direct sunlight. If you want to protect a commercial basement space, polyurethane can withstand foot traffic and equipment use.
3. Concrete Sealers
If you’re looking for a more affordable solution, concrete sealers will do the trick. Sealers penetrate the porous surface of a concrete basement floor. They work to reduce moisture absorption and prevent water from seeping through.
Keep in mind that sealers don’t necessarily provide the same level of durability as epoxy or polyurethane. Still, they are great for moisture prevention, and you can pair them with concrete staining (a decorative finish) for visual appeal.
What to Consider When Choosing a Basement Floor Coating
Choosing the best basement floor coating for your home or commercial space is about more than just moisture control. Consider the following.
Humidity Levels: In Wilmington, humidity is often a year-round challenge. If you have a basement with a history of water intrusion, you need a coating with exceptional moisture-blocking benefits. You also need to address underlying issues, such as leaks or poor drainage, for optimal results with a floor coating.
Durability: Commercial customers tend to prioritize durability more than residential customers. In a commercial space, there is foot traffic, equipment, and chemical exposure to contend with. In this instance, epoxy and polyurethane are your best options if you don’t want to reapply coatings frequently.
Maintenance: You don’t want to spend hours scrubbing a basement floor. This means you need a coating that resists stains and dirt. Epoxy coatings are known for being easy to clean, making them a popular choice for homes and businesses.
DIY Vs. Professional Application
Once you have chosen a basement floor coating and considered all the necessary factors, you must decide how you want to apply it. Do you want to do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional contractor for the project?
DIY: Pros and Cons
Tackling a basement floor coating project yourself can save on labor costs. You can also adjust your project schedule to suit your daily routine.
However, if you don’t know how to prepare the surface properly, the coating will peel or bubble. A DIY project can also quickly become overwhelming if the basement has existing moisture issues that need to be resolved first.
Professional Contractor: Pros and Cons
With a professional contractor, you get expertise and the guarantee of a high-quality finish. You will also receive a warranty on the work, offering peace of mind.
Hiring a contractor does cost more upfront, but the quality of the work will save you money over time.
Protect Your Basement Coating Investment With Anderson Painting
Anderson Painting is your local go-to for garage, basement, and commercial concrete floor coatings. With years of experience and a reputation for excellence, our team can help you choose and install the appropriate coating solution for your home or business. We recommend and install Penntek polyurea floor coatings for homes and businesses. Penntek floor coatings offer superior moisture control, durability, customization, and aesthetic appeal compared to other basement floor coating options.
No matter where you are in North Carolina, including Raleigh and Wilmington, we can come to you. Get in touch with us today for a free estimate, and let us overhaul your basement floor the right way.
