Industrial flooring: What is the difference between Epoxy and Polyurethane

Epoxy (EP) and Polyurethane (PU) flooring are mostly used for industrial flooring around the world.

Both systems are commonly used in heavy-duty industries, warehouses, logistics and heavy-duty general manufacturing. Whenever there are operations that involve heavy vehicle movements, for instance, forklifts, PU coatings are considered.

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Epoxy floor coating have higher compressive strength as compared to polyurethane floor coating. Polyurethane floor coatings, on the other hand, are typically “softer”. They are more flexible and more scratch resistant. PU flooring in general can also absorb impact much better than epoxy flooring.

Due to the fact that, in general PU flooring is more flexible, they are a good choice for substrates which relates to building movement such as multi-store carparks. The flexibility of PU floor coating can also act as a waterproofing layer in order to prevent concrete (substrate) cracks to move through the coating and appear on the top surface.

When it comes to chemical exposure, Polyurethane flooring, such as Cementitious Polyurethane is the better option especially in the food industries like dairy, milk and beverage production where the floor is exposed to lactic acids and other fruit acids. 
 
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An important note on chemical exposure is that it can change the color of the coating. Any chemical leakage or exposure on the floor need to be removed as soon as possible to avoid penetration and damage which could result in danger to the environment. The right flooring system can be recommended by understanding the kind of chemicals used in the facility beforehand.

Epoxy based material flooring are sensitive to moisture presence, while the Concrete Polyurethane products having less sensitivity in terms of moisture presence.

Any condensation, floor moisture or extreme high humidity during the application of a  flooring material can cause heavy damage in terms of bubbles, blisters, pinholes and wrinkles on the top surface as well as debonding issues from the concrete substrate.
 
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Concrete Polyurethane flooring materials are usually faster curing than epoxy flooring materials. If a project need to be handed over in a short amount of time, Concrete Polyurethane flooring could be a consideration. However, applying Concrete Polyurethane flooring materials require experienced applicators due to its faster pot life.

There are many industrial flooring products in the market. It is important to understand that price is not always the only factor, more so about considering the right kind of material for the facility and/or intended purpose.
 

 
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