If you're planning to coat your commercial or industrial concrete floors, it's natural to wonder what kind of odors the process might involve. Will there be a strong chemical smell? Could it affect people in the space? Will it linger for days?
The short answer: some concrete coatings can produce noticeable odors during application, but not all do. Understanding what causes the smell and how to manage it will help you plan your project more effectively and maintain a safe, comfortable environment.
At CustomCrete, we use low-odor and no-odor products whenever possible—especially in active or sensitive work environments. Here’s what you should know.
What Causes the Smell in Concrete Coatings?
Many traditional concrete coating systems—such as some epoxy, polyurethane, or acrylics—contain solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As these chemicals evaporate during application and curing, they release fumes into the air, often producing a strong or unpleasant odor.
Common causes of odor include:
- Solvent-based formulas with high VOC content
- Poor ventilation in enclosed or underground areas
- High temperatures, which can increase evaporation and intensify smells
The level of odor varies significantly depending on the type of coating used, the environment where it's applied, and the experience of the installer.
Do All Concrete Coatings Smell?
Not necessarily. There are many low-odor and odor-free products on the market today.
Coatings with noticeable smell:
- Solvent-based epoxy
- Polyurethane coatings (especially in high-performance systems)
- Fast-cure systems that require accelerators or catalysts
Coatings with little to no smell:
- Water-based epoxy or polyurethane
- 100% solids epoxy (very low VOC)
- UV- or moisture-cured coatings designed for interior use
At CustomCrete, we work with systems that are engineered for minimal disruption—including products that meet low-VOC standards and reduce odors significantly.
How Long Does the Smell Last?
When present, the odor typically occurs during application and curing. Depending on the coating type and environmental conditions, it may linger for a few hours to a few days. Good ventilation can drastically reduce the duration and intensity of the smell.
Factors that influence odor duration:
- Type of coating used
- Temperature and humidity
- Size of the space and air circulation
- Drying/curing time required
For example, a high-VOC polyurethane coating applied in a poorly ventilated warehouse may leave a noticeable odor for 24–72 hours. In contrast, a low-VOC water-based epoxy might be nearly odorless within an hour.
Managing Odors During Concrete Coating Installation
If your facility is concerned about smells, there are several strategies to manage them effectively:
- Choose low-odor products: CustomCrete will recommend coatings specifically designed for sensitive environments like offices, retail stores, healthcare settings, or production lines.
- Improve ventilation: Use fans, open doors, or HVAC systems to increase air circulation during and after installation.
- Schedule strategically: Apply coatings during off-hours or weekends to minimize exposure to occupants.
- Use temporary barriers: Plastic sheeting or mobile walls can help isolate the work area and contain fumes.
Where Odor Matters Most
Some spaces are more sensitive to concrete coating smells than others. These include:
- Food processing areas
- Healthcare facilities and labs
- Schools and universities
- Retail spaces with walk-in traffic
- Office environments with shared air systems
CustomCrete frequently works in these types of environments. We prioritize safety and comfort by selecting products that minimize odors and ensuring proper air quality control during installation.
Final Thoughts
While some concrete coatings do produce noticeable smells, it’s entirely possible to complete your flooring project with little to no disruption. By choosing low-VOC products and working with experienced contractors like CustomCrete, you can protect your space without sacrificing indoor air quality.
Whether you're coating a warehouse, healthcare facility, or customer-facing space, we'll help you select the best solution with minimal odor, high durability, and excellent performance.
Want to learn more about installing concrete coating? Visit our next blog, “How Loud is the Sealed Concrete Application Process”?
