Polyurethane flooring is a common and functional application used in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Though sharing some similarities to epoxy flooring, polyurethane has a higher resistance to UV and other chemicals and is softer and more flexible. Because of its flexibility, polyurethane floors expand and contract under intense temperature pressures, making cracks and breaks less likely.
What is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a manufactured plastic material, created by fusing two chemicals called polyol and diisocyanate. This flexible foam material (think of it as a liquid plastic) has been used for many different things since its discovery. Polyurethane has been used for:
- Furniture and bedding to make it more comfortable
- Insulation of industrial freezers and refrigerators
- Carpet underlay
- Apparel and footwear to make it more flexible
- Medical equipment
- Vehicle seats
Polyurethane flooring is more challenging to apply than epoxy and should be done professionally and is most commonly applied through a roller and squeegee. There are several different colors and finishes that polyurethane flooring available in, making it suitable for commercial and residential spaces of any kind. Highly likely, you are walking on polyurethane many times during your day-to-day without even knowing it. Here are four common places you will find polyurethane flooring.
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Multi-Story Car Parks
Polyurethane flooring is becoming increasingly common in multi-story car parks and underground parkades. Car parks are subject to a lot of physical stresses from heavy vehicles exiting and entering, such as dirt and gas fumes, and require a durable flooring system that will not scratch and break over time. The flexibility of polyurethane flooring makes it a perfect candidate for car park flooring. It’s waterproof and made to withstand UV rays, so whether a car park is underground or exposed to outdoor elements, the flooring will last and not fade or yellow.
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Sports Institutions
If you are an avid-gym goer, you know how important safety and comfort are when it comes to exercise. What you might not be thinking about is how the floor beneath you can affect your overall safety while you work out. Polyurethane flooring is waterproof, soft, anti-slip, and impact resistant, making it an ideal material for sports institution floors. The rubbery layer that polyurethane provides is ideal for weight rooms, indoor basketball courts, and running tracks. The components in the plastic material provide extra traction and buoyancy that can aid in the overall performance of an athlete in addition to their safety.
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Outdoor Spaces
Thanks to its UV and moisture resistance, polyurethane is a great candidate for outdoor flooring spaces, both residential and commercial. The durability of polyurethane makes it multifunctional and ideal for garages, patios, or bar areas, while giving it a smooth, sleek look in any color or finish you desire.
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Office Flooring
Polyurethane flooring can improve any office space! The design of an office; from the walls to the floors, contributes to the overall vibe and energy of the space. Make your office space more inviting by customizing the flooring any way you like with polyurethane. Investing in high-quality flooring for your office space will protect it from damage from prolonged foot traffic and save you money over time.
Looking for flooring for your commercial or residential space? Get a free quote today.
Canadian Floor Coatings has been in business for over 7 years and will provide you with the expertise and knowledge you need to find a flooring service that is right for you.
