For certain industries, especially for those dealing with heavy equipment, floors are one of the essential elements that they have to consider to ensure a smooth working process. It is certainly an integral part of an establishment that can easily make or break the space, being of help in its basic structure. The floors can also be vulnerable to different kinds of physical damage. With this, it is essential to install a strong and durable floor so those who handle the heavy equipment would not worry too much. Thus, one of the most effective solutions to make the floors hard-wearing and sturdy would be the installation of polyurethane flooring
Polyurethane: An Alternative to Epoxy
Polyurethane flooring has actually been popular as an alternative to epoxy flooring. They are commonly installed as a flooring finish for certain establishments over the years. Even on households as well, as a way of keeping their floors maintained well for a longer time. Polyurethane, also referred to as PU, is a type of plastic material or polymer, formed by combining poly with polymeric isocyanate, by using necessary additives. Given the properties combined in this flooring mixture, polyurethane flooring can be made to fit different needs and requirements. They offer several kinds of textures, and even ambiance, that is really a must-have for every industry.
PU is also considered to be an efficient type of flooring as well, as it does not contain any amount of highly harmful chemicals. Rather, it is made up of urethane polymers, chemical solvents, and curing agents, having the ability to protect surfaces of wooden furniture, and even concrete flooring at times.
This type of flooring finish has several benefits, which is why it is popular for most residences, buildings, and commercial establishments. Aside from being strong and durable, polyurethane flooring tends to be softer and has a higher elasticity. They are more flexible, and therefore, are resistant to scratches as well. Given that it is flexible, PU coatings can be able to act as a waterproofing layer too. It can prevent concrete cracks from moving through the coating and appearing on the surface. With these properties and elements, they have been highly recommended for most industrial usage. Especially for chemical and food industries, laboratories, and the like.
Strong and Durable
All floors must always be strong and durable. It is important as it will have to handle huge traffic, and a great deal of pressure from machinery and vehicles used in a certain industry. Also, there is the general wear and tear that occurs when used frequently. With this, it is essential to apply a flooring solution. A coating that will ensure your floors to be more hardwearing, as well as to last a lot longer. Thus, PU coating installation has been known to be an effective flooring solution for this.
Though polyurethane flooring gives off that odor and higher toxicity, oil-based ones tend to be slightly more durable. They can offer better protection from heat and moisture. This is more preferred to use, particularly in areas that get a lot of traffic. Water-based ones, on the other hand, are more expensive. But they can be an efficient alternative if you want the floors to dry quickly. It does not affect the wood’s color as well, in cases if it was applied on wood. It is a fast-drying solution that can be recoated without compromising the natural color of the floor. They are made up of synthetic resins and plasticizers, making it a durable finish that can resist the moisture well.
Though whatever type of polyurethane flooring you apply as a finish, they still both provide an extra level of strength and durability. This makes it indeed an ideal effective solution for high-traffic and damage-prone areas.
Versatility
Given the flexibility of polyurethane flooring, it is also considered to be a versatile type of flooring solution. It can be applied to several surface materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. They can easily adapt to environments at ease in this case. Thus, being considered to be a much more suitable choice in certain applications. This is one of the reasons that makes it one of the first choices among all the flooring finishes.
Elasticity
Polyurethane flooring is also deemed to hold elastic properties, having the ability to withstand such low temperatures. This makes it an ideal application for freezing chambers, as they work well at whatever temperature they are applied on. Whether the resin goes from hot to cold rapidly, or even vice-versa, it tends to be stronger rather than becoming brittle and breaking. Thus, when installed, PU creates a nice elastic surface. It allows the frequent movement of trucks and other heavy machinery as well, without any damage.
This type of flooring is also commonly applied in gyms, schools, and even in commercial spaces. Its elastic surface finish can be able to absorb some of the impact from foot traffic. Thus, making it a friendlier surface for people to walk on.
Key Takeaway
Being an effective flooring solution for most industrial applications, polyurethane flooring is an ideal coating, especially if you want your floors to be strong and durable, while providing resistance to common issues that floors experience. With this, it is no surprise that this has been considered to be a perfect alternative to apply on floors in areas with high-traffic.
