The most common synthetic floors are made on the basis of polyurethane and epoxy. But what exactly is the difference between these floors? We explain the main differences for making a well-considered choice.
The differences between PU and epoxy resin floors
Below we list the biggest differences between a PU and an epoxy resin floor for you:
- PU resin floors are slightly elastic. The flexible character ensures the necessary walking comfort. For this reason, PU floors are often applied in homes and office buildings;
- Crack-bridging character. Thanks to their slightly elastic character, PU resin floors are somewhat crack-bridging. This property also makes polyurethane resin floors resistant to shrinkage and expansion stresses;
- Chemical resistance. Epoxy resin floors are generally better resistant to exposure to chemical substances than PU resin floors. The floor will therefore not easily be damaged in contact with acids and other aggressive substances;
- Epoxy floors are made of a harder type of synthetic resin than polyurethane floors. This property makes epoxy resin floors suitable for heavy use in, for example, workshops and warehouses.
In the table below, we share the most important characteristics of polyurethane and epoxy resin floors:
| PU resin floor | Epoxy resin floor | |
| Seamless | +++ | +++ |
| Hardness | ++ | +++ |
| Elasticity | ++ | – |
| Crack-bridging character | ++ | – |
| Scratch resistance | ++ | + |
| Walking comfort | +++ | + |
| Feasibility with underfloor heating | ++ | + |
| Chemical resistance | ++ | +++ |
| Load-bearing capacity | ++ | +++ |
What PU and epoxy resin floor share with each other
Besides differences, both synthetic floors also share many similarities. For instance, both PU and epoxy resin floors are very hygienic, user-friendly and wear-resistant. Thanks to their sleek appearance, both fit excellently in a modern interior. They can be executed in all RAL and NCS colors. In terms of color versions, you can go in any direction: from uni-color version to concrete look and scattered with flakes.
Always a suitable resin floor
Are you looking for a synthetic resin floor, but doubting between an epoxy or a PU floor? TREU interior specials is happy to advise you!
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