Choosing the right concrete floor coatings is critical for industrial and commercial applications. High-quality coatings protect floors from wear, chemicals and impact damage while ensuring safety and longevity. But beyond product performance, where your coatings come from matters a great deal.
Buying American-made concrete floor coatings offers numerous advantages. You support American jobs and strengthen the economy, for one thing. You ensure quality and reduce supply chain risks, too. Read on as we explore five key benefits of choosing US-manufactured coatings for your facility.
1. Supporting American Jobs & the Economy
Keeping manufacturing jobs in the US. Purchasing domestically produced coatings helps sustain and grow American manufacturing jobs. The US manufacturing sector employs nearly 12.8 million workers (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Manufacturing jobs also tend to offer higher wages and better benefits than many other industries, contributing to economic stability for workers and their families (National Association of Manufacturers, 2023).
Strengthening local communities. When you buy American-made products, your dollars stay within the US economy, supporting local businesses and communities. Manufacturing is a significant economic driver, with every $1 spent in manufacturing contributing $2.60 to the economy (NAM, 2023). Plus, taxes from US manufacturers help fund essential public services, such as infrastructure, education and emergency response.
2. Enhancing Supply Chain Reliability & Reducing Disruptions
Shorter lead times & faster delivery. Supply chain disruptions have become a major concern in recent years. Events like the COVID-19 pandemic, port congestion, and international shipping delays have highlighted the risks of relying on foreign-made goods (McKinsey & Company, 2022). Domestic manufacturing ensures shorter shipping distances, reduces (or eliminates) customs delays, and enables faster delivery times.
Lower dependence on foreign suppliers. Many foreign suppliers face geopolitical risks, labor shortages and transportation bottlenecks that cause unpredictable delays (US Chamber of Commerce, 2023). By choosing US-made coatings, you gain more control over your supply chain, ensuring consistent availability of raw materials and timely order fulfillment.
Fewer price fluctuations & tariff concerns. Importing coatings from overseas leads to additional costs related to international shipping, import duties and trade tariffs. Buying American-made coatings helps you avoid these expenses while benefiting from more-stable pricing.
3. Ensuring High Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Strict US manufacturing standards. US-made coatings adhere to strict manufacturing regulations, ensuring safety and environmental responsibility. American manufacturers comply with EPA regulations for emissions and chemical usage (Environmental Protection Agency, 2023) and follow OSHA safety standards to protect workers and product integrity (OSHA, 2023).
Better performance & longevity. American-made coatings are designed to meet rigorous performance standards for durability, chemical resistance and adhesion. Unlike some imported alternatives, these coatings undergo extensive testing to ensure consistency and longevity.
Transparent labeling & testing. US manufacturers provide clear ingredient lists, safety data sheets, and compliance certifications, such as LEED and Green Seal. This transparency reduces the risk of undisclosed chemicals or substandard materials, which are sometimes found in imported coatings.
4. Strengthening US Supplier Networks
Supporting local raw material suppliers. American manufacturers often source raw materials—such as resins, pigments and additives—from domestic suppliers. This strengthens entire industries, reduces dependency on imports, and supports local economies.
Boosting American innovation & technology. Manufacturing in the US drives investment in research and development, leading to innovations like low-VOC coatings, antimicrobial finishes, and enhanced durability formulas. Domestic production also supports technical jobs in R&D and engineering, fostering continued advancements in floor coating technology.
5. Environmental Benefits of Buying American-Made Concrete Floor Coatings
Lower carbon footprint. Importing coatings from overseas involves long shipping distances, which contribute to higher carbon emissions. By purchasing domestically produced coatings, you significantly reduce your environmental impact. Additionally, US manufacturers operate under strict environmental regulations, minimizing pollution and waste.
Compliance with sustainability standards. Many American manufacturers follow sustainability initiatives, such as LEED, Energy Star, and low-VOC requirements. Some imported coatings contain chemicals that are banned in the US due to environmental and health concerns, making domestic products a safer and more responsible choice.
Conclusion
Choosing American-made concrete floor coatings isn’t just about product quality—it’s about supporting the economy, ensuring supply chain stability, and reducing your environmental impact. By investing in US-manufactured coatings, you benefit from shorter lead times, superior durability, and compliance with strict safety and environmental standards.
Looking for high-performance, American-made concrete floor coatings? Contact RIO Flooring Systems today to learn more about our durable and environmentally responsible solutions.