Coating Selection Tool
Answer a few questions about your project to get personalized coating recommendations. Takes about 2 minutes.
What surface are you coating?
Select the primary substrate for your project.
Coating Types Quick Reference
| Coating Type | Best For | Durability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Latex | Interior walls, standard commercial | ★★★☆☆ | $ |
| Alkyd/Oil-Based | Trim, metal, high-wear areas | ★★★★☆ | $$ |
| Epoxy | Floors, industrial, chemical resistance | ★★★★★ | $$$ |
| Polyurethane | Exterior, UV exposure, topcoats | ★★★★★ | $$$ |
| Elastomeric | Exterior walls, crack bridging | ★★★★☆ | $$ |
| Zinc-Rich Primer | Steel corrosion protection | ★★★★★ | $$$ |
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Tool"></iframe>
Coating Selection FAQ
Q1: How do I choose the right coating for my commercial project?
The right coating depends on four key factors: 1) Environment - chemical exposure, UV, moisture, temperature extremes; 2) Substrate - what surface you're coating (concrete, steel, drywall); 3) Performance requirements - durability, antimicrobial, fire rating; 4) Budget and lifecycle cost. This tool guides you through each factor to recommend optimal systems.
Q2: What's the difference between epoxy and polyurethane coatings?
Epoxy coatings offer excellent adhesion, chemical resistance, and hardness - ideal for floors and industrial environments. Polyurethane provides superior UV resistance, flexibility, and abrasion resistance - better for exterior applications and topcoats. Many industrial systems use epoxy as a base with polyurethane topcoat for best performance.
Q3: When should I use antimicrobial coatings?
Antimicrobial coatings are recommended for healthcare facilities, food processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratories, schools, and any space requiring infection control. These coatings contain EPA-registered antimicrobial agents that inhibit bacteria, mold, and mildew growth on painted surfaces.
Q4: Do I need a fire-retardant coating?
Fire-retardant coatings are required by building codes for certain occupancies (assembly, healthcare, high-rise) and construction types. They're also recommended for data centers, industrial facilities, and historic buildings. Intumescent coatings expand when heated to form an insulating char that protects structural steel.
Q5: How long do industrial coatings last?
Coating lifespan depends on the system and environment. Standard commercial paints: 5-7 years. High-performance acrylics: 7-10 years. Epoxy systems: 10-15 years. Polyurethane topcoats: 15-20 years. Proper surface preparation is the biggest factor in coating longevity - 80% of coating failures are due to inadequate prep.
Q6: What certifications should I look for in industrial coatings?
Key certifications include: USDA approval for food contact areas, FDA compliance for pharmaceutical facilities, NFPA fire ratings, VOC compliance (varies by state), LEED/Green certification for sustainability, and SSPC/NACE standards for corrosion protection. Our tool factors in these requirements when making recommendations.
Have more questions? Contact our experts or call (855) 666-2628
Need Expert Coating Advice?
Our NACE-certified inspectors can evaluate your project and recommend the optimal coating system for maximum performance and value.