When it comes to hangar flooring, durability and performance are non-negotiable. Heavy aircraft, fuel spills, maintenance activities, and constant foot traffic all put immense strain on the floor. Selecting the right surface is about more than appearance—it’s about safety, efficiency, and long-term cost savings.
At CustomCrete, we’ve spent nearly 20 years installing high-performance floors for aviation facilities across the Chicago area and beyond. From private hangars to large commercial operations, we’ve seen firsthand how flooring choice impacts both day-to-day operations and long-term maintenance costs. Two of the most popular options we install for hangars are epoxy and polished concrete, but deciding between them requires understanding their strengths and limitations.
This guide will compare polished concrete vs epoxy for hangars so you can choose the best solution for your facility.
Polished Concrete for Hangars
Polished concrete is created by mechanically grinding and polishing the existing concrete slab to a smooth, reflective finish. Densifiers and optional sealers are applied to harden the surface and improve resistance to staining.
Benefits of Polished Concrete
- Low Maintenance: No waxes or coatings to reapply—just regular sweeping and occasional wet mopping.
- High Durability: Resists abrasion from foot traffic, wheeled equipment, and light aircraft movement.
- Slip Resistance: Can be finished with varying levels of traction to meet safety requirements.
- Sustainable: Uses the existing slab, minimizing material waste.
Limitations of Polished Concrete
- Chemical Sensitivity: While sealers help, polished concrete is more vulnerable to chemical and fuel stains than epoxy.
- Moisture Sensitivity: Spills should be cleaned promptly to prevent penetration.
- Surface Reflectivity: While the shine is attractive, glare could be an issue in certain lighting conditions.
Epoxy Flooring for Hangars
Epoxy flooring is a resin-based coating applied over prepared concrete. It cures into a seamless, chemical-resistant surface that can be customized for safety and aesthetics.
Benefits of Epoxy Flooring
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent protection against fuels, oils, and cleaning agents.
- Customizable Safety Features: Can include color-coded zones, line striping, and non-slip textures.
Seamless Surface: No grout lines or joints where debris and moisture can collect. - High Load Tolerance: Can withstand the weight of aircraft without peeling or cracking when properly installed.
Limitations of Epoxy Flooring
- Periodic Maintenance: May require re-coating or touch-ups over the years, depending on traffic and exposure.
- Longer Installation Downtime: Needs curing time before the hangar can be used again.
- Moisture Testing Required: Excess slab moisture can cause adhesion failure if not addressed beforehand.
Comparing Polished Concrete vs Epoxy
Both options perform well in hangar environments, but the right choice depends on your priorities.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Hangar
- If chemical resistance and safety customization are top priorities—especially for hangars dealing with frequent fuel and oil spills—epoxy may be the better choice.
- If you want a low-maintenance, long-lasting floor that uses your existing slab and minimizes material usage, polished concrete is a strong contender.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose polished concrete vs epoxy, both offer the durability and professional look needed for demanding aviation environments. The best decision comes from evaluating your hangar’s daily operations, exposure to chemicals, downtime allowances, and budget.
Want to explore how flooring appearance can impact safety and efficiency in your hangar? Read our blog, “Why Color and Gloss Matter in Aviation Flooring”.
