Whether it's for commercial or residential use, polyurethane flooring in Coquitlam has been popping up in more and more residences and businesses. If you have been considering a new flooring system for an area that needs to withstand heavy traffic and harsh environments, like a manufacturing facility, commercial kitchen, or garage, chances are polyurethane flooring is high on your list of potential candidates.
So, let's dive in. What are the benefits of polyurethane flooring, and why are more Coquitlam residents and business owners opting to use this resin over other products?
What is Polyurethane Flooring?
From a technical standpoint, polyurethane flooring is part of a larger group of thermosetting polymers. These polymers' molecular structure and density make them uniquely resistant to things like moisture, heat, bacteria, chemicals, and impacts. This inherent durability is why polymer resin floors are so widely used in commercial, industrial, and even residential applications where the environment is a concern.
What Makes Polyurethane Flooring a Good Choice?
Polyurethane flooring offers some distinct advantages over other resin floorings systems that are commonly used in residential and commercial spaces; however, it is also more expensive. Compared to epoxy or polished concrete, polyurethane is more durable, more tolerant of extreme temperatures, and offers better chemical and stain resistance. It is also less prone to surface imperfections like scuffs, scratches, and yellowing.
Also check out: Epoxy Flooring Vs Polyurethane Flooring: Which Is Better?
Temperature Tolerant
Polyurethane flooring can withstand temperatures as high as 120°C and as low as -62°C. Polyurethane offers more flexibility than other resins like epoxy, which allows it to expand and contract during temperature fluctuations, making cracks less likely.
UV Resistant
For areas that receive prolonged direct sun exposure, polyurethane flooring may be a better option than other types of resin, either for the entire floor or used as a protective topcoat. Unlike epoxy, which can sometimes yellow, polyurethane will maintain its appearance, even after years of sun exposure.
Chemical and Stain Resistant
Polyurethane flooring offers exceptional protection against stains, corrosion, and fading. It can withstand a broad range of chemicals and solvents, including natural chemicals like lactic acid, which can corrode and yellow epoxy.
Seamless Surface
Like all resin flooring, polyurethane flooring is poured, resulting in a smooth, seamless finish. This makes cleaning much simpler and is a huge advantage in spaces where bacteria is a concern, as in medical facilities, kitchens, or gyms. An important point to consider with polyurethane flooring is that while it is poured, it rests and dries on the surface of the concrete like a film. This isn't a problem for spaces where the concrete slab is in good condition; however, if there are imperfections or small cracks in the concrete slab, a multi-layer system with an epoxy base may be a better choice.
Moisture Resistant
A big problem with unfinished concrete is that concrete, while very strong, is also very porous. To ensure longevity, concrete should at the very least be sealed. However, in addition to the benefits already covered, polyurethane flooring provides robust protection against humidity and moisture, which can help increase the lifespan of your concrete, protecting against cracks, chips, and buckling.
Durable
Polyurethane flooring is exceptionally durable. It can easily withstand the type of heavy traffic you might see in a warehouse, airport hanger, or food processing plant, with minimal maintenance. Customers opting for polyurethane flooring in Coquitlam will pay more for the initial application, but it has a longer expected lifespan.
Polyurethane flooring offers businesses and residential consumers a highly customizable product that is both durable and functional. It costs more than some of the other available options; however, with the ability to incorporate polyurethane with less expensive resin systems like epoxy, it can be made to fit into almost any budget.
