There are a wide range of resin flooring solutions available on the market and one type that is growing in popularity is polyurethane. The reason is that it offers superior chemical resistance and abrasion-resistance making it perfect for harsher industrial environments where there are lots of people or machinery moving around. This makes it a great option for warehouses, factories and any other type of production or manufacturing facility.
It is also highly customisable for specific industrial requirements such as slip or electrical resistance and this can be achieved by mixing different chemicals into the base material. It is possible to achieve an anti-slip surface, for instance, without compromising on durability by adding a finely ground aggregate into the mix which gives it extra bite and grip.
This type of flooring polyurethane screeds and coatings can also be installed very quickly and is usually ready for use within a weekend, which means minimal downtime for the facility. It is also highly durable and can be used for heavy loads, including cars, trucks, and trailers as well as abrasion-resistance. The fact that it is poured means there are no joins, cracks or chips to cause problems later on, which is important for any kind of factory or industrial environment.
The other advantage of PU over epoxy is that it is less affected by chemicals like organic acids. For example, the lactic acid experience in milk and cheese production can corrode or yellow an epoxy floor, whereas this won’t happen with a PU floor. Similarly, sulfuric acids will also damage an epoxy floor but aren’t a problem for a PU floor.
While both PU and epoxy have many benefits, it is important to consider the specific needs of each area. Epoxy floors are much more versatile and offer a wider range of designs than PU. This can make them more suitable for commercial spaces such as car showrooms and retail stores that want a stylish, modern look. However, they are not as hard-wearing and have a lower UV resistance than PU flooring, which can be an issue in areas where sunlight is present.
It is also worth noting that PU has a shorter lifespan than epoxy, so it is important to weigh up the pros and cons of each type before choosing which is best for your space. Overall, though, PU is the better choice for industrial environments where there are high levels of traffic and significant chemical spills. It is also a good option for environments that are particularly sensitive to humidity, as it holds up well against moisture and changes in temperature. While epoxy can be damaged by this as well, it takes longer to cure and doesn’t have the same level of flexibility or durability as PU. This can lead to the need for a higher level of maintenance and repair than with a PU floor. This is why we recommend always using a professional for any application of industrial flooring. They will be able to advise you on the best product for your unique needs.