Concrete Coating Curing Time: What to Expect

“What is the concrete coating curing time?” is a question many business and homeowners ask when researching the epoxy coating process. Once you’ve decided that an epoxy finish is a change you need to make to improve your concrete surface, you might be wondering how long it will take. Will you need to wait days, weeks, months? We have answers!

concrete curing time

Multiple Steps in the Process

Full disclosure: Getting a new epoxy finish on your concrete isn’t as simple as dumping a bucket of the mixture on the concrete and calling it a day. There are many intricate steps that require time and skill to complete, some of which need to take place before the actual coating is applied.

First, it’s essential to prepare the surface properly. At Packman’s Coatings, we use diamond-grinding techniques to remove old paint or coatings and to even out bumps and rifts. After this, the floor must be cleaned thoroughly and swept of all debris and dust.

Finally, it’s time to start layering the coats. Depending on the finish you are going for, we will lay down multiple coats, including a primer.

Curing Time Is Essential for Good Results

As a general rule of thumb, we typically suggest waiting a full 24 hours before you try to walk on the surface. However, when it comes to driving on it, it will be about a week.

If you’ve just poured new cement and you’d like to install a coating, keep in mind that you will have to wait 30 to 90 days before doing so. The concrete coating curing time could be extended for new concrete.

Follow Instructions Closely

The guidelines for your epoxy coating might vary from your neighbors’, for various reasons. First, the type of coating you choose will dictate its total curing time, depending on the coatings’ chemical makeup. Temperature may also play a factor. Any glossy or nonslip finishes can also change the expected time it takes before your floor is ready to use.

What Can You Expect from Us?

At Packman’s Coatings, we realize many home and business owners want a quick fix to their less-than-desirable concrete surfaces. While we can commiserate, we want our customers to understand that concrete coating curing time plays a pivotal role in the durability of their finished product. We will walk you through every step of the finishing process to ensure you know when it’s safe to start using your new floor! Contact us today to get a free quote for your epoxy coating.