Epoxy vs Polyurethane Flooring: Understand the differences

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Epoxy and polyurethane (PU for short) floors are the two most commonly used types of resinous industrial floors. An age old question in our industry is what are the differences between the two types of floors? And when should we pick one over the other?
Epoxy floors are harder, more durable and have a much higher compression strength than polyurethanes. This is why they are the preferred choice for heavy duty industries, warehouses and logistics centers with heavy forklift traffic.
Polyurethane floors are usually softer and more elastic, which makes them more resistant to scratching as their elasticity tends to absorb some of the impact. The elasticity of PU floors also makes them a preferred choice in freezing chambers where the storage temperature can reach -30 degrees Celsius (-22 F). They are also a good choice for multideck car-parks since the elastic coating can act as a waterproofing and crack-bridging layer.
Epoxies and polyurethanes behave differently when exposed to certain chemicals. For example polyurethanes are the preferred choice in food industries that have exposure to lactic acids. This the reason why many food processing companies that work in milk, dairy, cheese production choose polyurethanes.
Epoxies under such conditions may experience corrosion and yellowing. However when working in industries with sulfuric acids (like battery manufacturing etc) epoxy floors are much more resistant than polyurethanes. If you are working in a facility with heavy exposure to chemicals, check with the manufacturer to see which product is better suited.
Epoxy resins are also sensitive to moisture, but the damage done by humidity will be far more limited. Therefore when working in environments where the presence of humidity could be an issue, epoxy is always the much better choice.
Polyurethane floors can be easily modified to extend or limit their pot life, re-coat time as well as the total curing time. This flexibility enables contractors to complete PU floors in a much shorter space of time .With PU you could effectively start a multicoat project on Friday and hand it over on Monday. Epoxy floors are much less flexible in this respect in the sense that they usually require 7 days to fully cure.
In general polyurethanes are harder to work with. Their limited pot life and sensitivity to humidity require very well trained and experienced staff. Personally I refuse to supply inexperienced teams with PU floor resins. Too many things can go wrong.
Finally if you are wondering which one of the two resins is cheaper, I do not really have an answer to that. There are quite a few varieties of products out there. Comparing epoxies to PUs is like comparing apples to oranges. Ultimately your choice of floor should not be based on which one of the two is cheaper, but which one of the two suits your needs.
This video is narrated by Akis Apostolopoulos. Akis has been involved in the manufacturing and application of industrial floor coatings for the past ten years. He runs learncoatings which is an online resource training professionals on the use of epoxy floors. He is also General Manager of Ktisis, a manufacturer of flooring and waterproofing coatings.

[@Mr.Nefarioussness]

I work for res stone flooring, helped me understand the floors better

[@youssefyouss2130]

Very nice video. I'am not fluent in english but your english is very easynto understande..very nice site to learn english...thank youn👍👍👍🇩🇿🇩🇿🇩🇿

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

It's my pleasure!

[@hassanmb5674]

Many thanks for your well explained video.. i was in stage of decision for my car parking floor coating, and your video was very helpful to me for selecting Epoxy over the Polyurethane due to high humidity.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Glad it helped!

[@CrisRodpon]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 thank you for your video. I have one question: Whats would you do when concrete floor was expose or in contact with oil, and you need to apply an epoxi coating?

[@josesegura2090]

Videos like these are the reason I use KZbin! Thank you for posting!

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

thank you for your kind words!

[@PressurenFlames]

A comparison between epoxy vs. polyurea would be great. As I understand polyurea and polyurethane are not the same materials.

[@stratulatus]

Thanks for this post. I did epoxy on my old garage and got many scratches just from dragging stuff around and now that we moved to a new place definitely I will use PU coating. ( in fact PU caulking tubes are my most preferred glues vs PL900, for example)

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Glad it helped

[@VimMitt]

Thanks

[@FirstLast-tx3yj]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 My application is not a floor but I cannot use resin because it has to be in the sun for 10 hours and I cannot use acrylic because it is going to scratch so PolyU is my only option... do you think if I waterproof then cover with a protective film like the one used on cars... will I be safe from water? and PolyU is no problem in the sun what do you think?

[@makinnewcounts6676]

@@FirstLast-tx3yj spar urethane for the uv properties. 3 coats foam brush don't press hard at all or you'll get air bubbles, silicone squeegee type brush can help as a final stroke, move it quickly

[@JohnWicksPencil14]

I just put down an epoxy floor in my garage and it came out great. I also got a urethane sealant that will go on in a couple days when the epoxy is cured

[@yeslinda]

Can you share what brand you used? I’m clearing out my garage this week so I can do my floors I’m still deciding on what to use

[@JohnWicksPencil14]

@@yeslinda rustoleum, you can find it at Home Depot

[@fumomeats1141]

You mentioned Polyurethane is better with freezer condition, but also not good with humidity. Can you please explain more detail on this ? Say if we want to have a cold room or freezer room floor paint, what is the better flooring ? Epoxy or Polyurethane ?

[@thegazman53]

Well done Akis. Appreciate your depth of knowledge and willingness to share your expertise. Cheers Gary

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thank you Gary for your kind words. I'm glad I could help

[@randytellez2451]

Here's a tip for end users of coated garage floors who this may apply to. I'm sort of retired and work a couple of days a week at Walmart. When their product stockers roll out pallets of pack water bottles the pallets generally have a sheet of cardboard under the 2nd or 3rd top layer. Generally They will let you have one or two if you ask. Those cardboard sheets are quite handy to place under a gas powered lawnmower or yard tool to keep oil/gas/paint drippings off your nicely coated floor.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Great tip! Yes you are absolutely right, dripping oil can leave long term stains on the floor. I see car mechanics always place PVC sheets in areas that get messy with oils

[@llw53one]

Awesome! Great presentation, you’re very knowledgeable and you explained everything! Thanks for sharing!

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

thanks for your feedback, you're welcome!

[@johanbreytenbach3137]

We manufacture and apply Polyurethane coatings to a varied market on numerous substrates from steel, fiberglass, aluminium, wood and even areas such as gym floors with huge success. it offers a much wider versatility than epoxy in low to medium traffic applications with costs almost half that of epoxy

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thank you Johan for your input. I agree with you PU resin based coatings have a much broader range of applications than epoxies

[@jillabrams34990]

I live in Florida with a lot of humidity, in a condo. I want to change out my floors with new tile but before I do that, I want a coat of Epoxy down cause the slab is 45 years old and has not water vapor. I have had small amounts of water come up from the grout and NO it is not a pipe leak. We had a water inspector out and said Epoxy will stop future water leak's coming from the slab and through the grout. Do you think the epoxy will do it?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

No I am not a fan of using epoxy to stop any rising dampness. Epoxy cannot breathe as a product. I would much rather apply some cementitious based rising dampness blocker. I mean there are some epoxy primers that block humidity but cement based products are much better for such a purpose

[@jillabrams34990]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 Thank you for your recommendation. Can that Cementitious based rising dampness blocker be spread throughout my whole condo floor (1200 sq ft) , then apply my new tile down on that?

[@oliverthemechanic8532]

Thanks mate for the video 😉 any advice for what i gonna use for my mechanic garage with a car hoist cheers

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

You are welcome, epoxy is better than polyurethane for mechanic garages. You need something that's tougher like epoxy. Also I have noticed that some types of chemicals used in mechanic shops leave stains on polyurethane

[@yousefdehghani2050]

thank you so much for this great clarification

[@jessesifuma7900]

Enlightening article there. The hardness of epoxies lends from its closely spaced 2 different functional groups-hydroxyl and oxirane ring-, affording dense packing, but at the cost of flexibility.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

thank you Jesse for your chemical insights!

[@sylviefeghali7310]

hello i have a damaged terrace in a building due to humidity and water. do i va to wait till summer to pose the PU or if i heat the floor it should work? thank you

[@muhsinbaradia251]

Thanks for the great video. I am doing a swimming pool that am finished with tarrazzo (stone+white cement). It will be subjected to pool chemicals. What do you recommend as a top clear vanish polyurethane or epoxy?

[@nivanthamuthukumarana7510]

Thanking you for shearing your good knowledge . Appreciate Nivantha - Sri Lanka..

[@bossroilileg743]

What is the best water proofing paint for polyurethane paints can you recomend please

[@susansinclair4914]

Well explained and willing to admit and learn from past mistakes- The sign of an excellent teacher. Regarding epoxy requiring 7 days to fully cure, can you please tell me how long does it take to harden enough to walk on it with bare feet or socks? This would be in a home environment and the only reason I'd want to walk on it earlier is to check it's actually gone off or hardened.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thanks for your kind words! Under normal room temperature conditions epoxy can be walked on in 24 hours. If it is colder it may take a little longer for the epoxy to be walkable

[@davejookhuu5041]

I was trying to do my garage floor and pretty much every store I go to suggests one over another... This helped me to understand what exactly I need.. Thank you very much for you time and effort!

[@chelo3510]

you can still do both, lay the epoxy first and lay polyurethane as a coating after.. this will protect the epoxy from scratches

[@bailey9r]

Dave, most of the time they are just telling you which product they make more money on. ;

[@jefferycarter1791]

What is your Technique for a metallic floor, how do you make your swirls and it to look like marble??? With your roller???

[@calebwiebe7826]

I work with epoxy, mma, polyurethane out in Canada, B. C. I was wondering if you guys ‘walk the dog’ in the drive isle of polyurethane floors on the top coat?

[@ayodeleobasanya5624]

What a comparison This is nice and very educative..I prefer to use polyurethane than epoxy. Thanks for sharing

[@TsetsiStoyanova]

You are very well versed my man

[@manjunathsheshagirirao1246]

Really very useful information I got from your explanation. It helps in deciding what type flooring required.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

thank you, I'm glad it was useful!

[@robertpkindzia4071]

is a plyurithane coating waterfoof once it is curd

[@levicornelio3049]

What kind of Epoxy is uvray for outdoors and waterproof for rain?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

The best floor coating for waterproofing and that is also UV resistant is aliphatic polyurethane. You can watch this video for more information kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3qZY4Shpq6Dbtk

[@dreamcatcher2557]

I have a hardwood floor but I'm considering changing it to epoxy or polyurethane. Can I do epoxy on top of the hardwood and coat it with polyurethane? Which one would feel warmer epoxy or polyurethane?

[@magicaltiffy]

Same reason I'm here

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Polyurethane is definitely softer and warmer on the feet than epoxy. Also it is more elastic which will help with the expansion and contractions of the wood

[@dreamcatcher2557]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 thank you for your reply. That was great help! 👍

[@JulesKaestner]

good spoken informativ and understandable and interessting enough to listen the video and nice voice ty

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thank you kindly!

[@utubeyash99]

HAPPY TO WATCH THIS VIDEO PRESENTATION, THANKS FOR SHARING GOOD INFORMATION....

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

thank you for your support!

[@johnsmithzock7435]

hello sir! is it possible to use the too product together? polyurethane and epoxy. thank you.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Good question, it is common to apply a polyurethane topcoat over epoxy. However never do the opposite applying epoxy or PU. Polyurethane surfaces are very difficult for bonding and require priming first

[@karkorbng]

Very good insight... Well can you tell me how to get rid off moisture while application.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

During the application, avoid early times of the day where moisture seems to be higher. Try using a heater or a fan to bring down the moisture (although beware of any dust being carried)

[@HankerinForTheHomestead]

Well, I still don't know which would be best to use here, but this was very helpful! Thank you!

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

You are welcome. In almost all cases choosing between one or the other is never a 100% definite solution. You need to weigh the for and against and decide what's best

[@jessicapae9642]

Is it a good idea to coat the epoxy coated mini pebbled floor with a UV resistant polyurethane to prevent sun damage and the yellowing? How long does it take for epoxy coating to look bad?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

UV resistant polyurethane topcoats help protect, but in any case you shold not use epoxy coatings outdoors even if it is protected

[@palbheu]

Akis - thank you for the clear presentation on the two flooring materials. Since you focused the presentation primarily on commercial use, I'd like your opinion on using one or the other for a home basement. Sounds like PU is better because it resists cold temperatures but epoxy handles humidity better - which one would you recommend? Would also appreciate if you could weigh in on the aesthetics of the two products.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Polyurethane is necessary if the temperature drops below freezing. I doubt if your basement would get that cold so epoxy would be fine. From a humidity point epoxy would cure better. Aesthetically PU floors tend look a little softer and have a matte finish will epoxy tends to be glossier

[@benjaminherzog4710]

Thanks so much for the video. I am confused though. You said the PU floors are waterproof and then later on it is more sensitive to moisture. You are just referring to the time when its applied and cured right? What level of humidity would be too much for PU? Thank you

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Exactly Benjamin, when PU is still curing it is extremely sensitive to moisture. However once cured, because the final result is more elastic it will act as a better waterproofer than epoxy

[@ericelam5656]

What material has a better adhesion to steel? Epoxy? or Polyurethane? Which resist chipping bes?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Whether you apply epoxy or polyurethane, you need to apply a proper primer suitable for steel surfaces. Also epoxy & PU coatings used for steel surfaces are quite different to the ones used on floors.

[@manjoi7075]

Very good info. Well knowledgable. Tq

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Glad you liked it

[@sunnyking5116]

What about reaction of both to hot n humid conditions?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

It will cure faster under hot weather, but I am afraid that the humdity will affect the coating before it has fully cured

[@themist5486]

Namasthe! Which one is more suitable for shipping container floor in a very hot place?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I recommend polyurethane for container floors. They are subject to major temperature fluctuations because of the metal so you want something elastic on your floor

[@dennisgallagher7036]

Great video.. question.. we are moving into a 10 year old home with a 440 sf garage. I don't want to do a clear application to the floor... what is the best product... clear epoxy or clear polyurethane?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I find epoxy works best on bare concrete, expecially if the concrete contains moisture

[@emmanuelmarchie8911]

Hi, please whats the difference between epoxy floor paint and synthetic floor paint in an area with a lot of foot traffic?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Synthetic floor paint is a generic term that can mean any type of paint like acrylic epoxy, alkyd ,Pu or something else

[@JeffS-my5eq]

Great video sir. I have a franchise business that the sidewalks have rust stains. I was told to paint them or totally redo all of my concrete walkways. It was suggested to use an epoxy 9100 series by Rust oleum. These are outside sidewalks and I do have them snow plowed in the winter. I'm looking for an answer as I don't want to be continuing to resurface the sidewalks every couple of years. Your thoughts and suggestions are surely appreciated. I live in the Wisconsin.

[@mericontechnologies989]

sir let me ask some doubts kindly please give me a reply.. 1) what kind of chemical or material should be applied as primer before applying polyurethane over concrete floor or on plywood 2) which chemical or material should select for design lines over the polyurethane garage floors 3)if we apply polyurethane putty over plywoods what should i select or what is the best material to make a finish coat .. for cabins..

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I usually use epoxy primers for polyurethane coatings. This is for concrete as I do not have experience on wood. For garage floors, you can either use PU based coating for the line, or I often use reflective alkyd traffic paints. For cabins I would recommend that you stick with wood paints

[@mericontechnologies989]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 thank you sir, sir, what about the usage of water based epoxy primer...is it a right choice before applying epoxy resin, pu, or polyurea ( means cold cure polyurea) sir, is it safe to apply epoxy and polyurea in new toilets or bathroom waterproofing..above concrete and under tiles...means wet area...

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

@@mericontechnologies989 Yes I used water based epoxies as primers and they tend to work very well, and unlike solvent based primers they do not contain VOCs. As for under tiles waterproofing, pu coatings are the best

[@mericontechnologies989]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 sir, thank u so much.

[@shammajuniour9267]

I’ve not used PU before. Whats the viscosity of PU? Whats the recommended thickness? And in a cold room, can I use Epoxy for the first two coats then use PU as a top coat? Will this work?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Viscosity of PU is similar to epoxy, it really depends on the formulation. Thickness for a coating is usually at 2 or 3mm, cement based PUs can go up to 1cm. For a cold room you want the entire system to be resistant to low temperature so I don't recommend using epoxy underneath

[@shammajuniour9267]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 noted. The lowest temperature of the cold room is about 3 degrees. Thats why I was thinking of epoxy underneath. Its not too cold to say -30 degrees

[@tomsikes9064]

How does one determine if a coating already down is either Epoxy or Urethane.Sometimes I and colleagues are asked to clean coated floors and we have no idea if it is epoxy resin or Urethane resin, unless the owner knows. We are working blind on these surfaces making a best guess on chemical then pressure adjustments on our "spinners"to avoid stripping materials along with the vacuum out. Thanks for your input.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

It is not that easy to tell the difference. Urethanes tend to have a more 'rubbery' texture while epoxies tend to have a more industrial texture. It's taken me years to be able to spot the differences

[@YouTubeNazi]

Mix up a solution (as much as you can dissolve in water) of LYE (drain cleaner - sodium hydroxide) and put a few drops on the floor. If it goes yellow and soft over night then its PU. If it doesnt, epoxy.

[@michaelconstantin5731]

Thank you for your reply The moisture is coming from the hill on the upper side of the house and it seeps under the Fundation I’m looking for a product that it will stop the water to get to the top of the cement floors because I am going to Epoxy all the basement floors Thank you very much

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

The best solution is always to attack the problem from the outside. If this is not possible then you may want to consider a water based epoxy system that will be breathable and will be able to handle moisture presence

[@fadhilz963]

Very very very helpfull content... 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🔥🔥🔥

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Glad you think so!

[@MrKakkoo]

Great presentation, Great work, you’re very knowledgeable and you explained everything! Pl. present such more informative videos in this regard. Thanks for sharing!

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thank you for your kind words

[@nedalgeorges3969]

Hi , if I want to apply a thin coat of urethane over epoxy flooring, does that protect epoxy from yellowing? And how long I have to Wait after epoxy the floor to apply urethane?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

If this is outdoors the urethane wont really be able to protect the epoxy. The sun will go right through and will eventually destroy the epoxy. If this floor is indoors a clear topcoat can definitely delay the onset of yellowing

[@nedalgeorges3969]

LearnCoatings - Epoxy Flooring Training thank you so much , it’s a house , I live in Caribbean , most of the work going to be inside but there is some areas around windows and doors will be effected by sunlight, any advice?

[@liljoe7171]

Good stuff...scouring YT for epoxy/poly info (for a mosaic floor piece I made)...doesnt necessarily apply to my project but at least got educated and got info...well done.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thanks much appreciated!

[@obisstuff6884]

my wife and I saw a blended color epoxy. We are thinking about doing our living room in epoxy. The living room was the garage converted over. Which one will be easier to clean after setting up. I remember in the barracks as a soldier, we used urethane and it got scuffed a lot from boot traffic.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

epoxy tends to scratch more. Once the dirt gets into the scratches it is very hard to clean it up. You want to go with a colour shade not too light so any dirt marks will blend in with the floor

[@goblue2708]

Do you recommend water-based or oil based polyurethane? Recommended any particular brand / product? Thx

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I do not have much experience with water based polyurethane. I feel that the technology is not quite there yet. I use solvent based polyurethane

[@ushakarthik8915]

Good presentation about polyurethane coating

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thanks, greatly appreciated!

[@rizannizar340]

Hi bro, I just want to know weather apoxy can applied on a new pack of tile before laying, pls let me know

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

What do you mean apply epoxy on tiles, before the tiles have been layed? Or apply epoxy and tiles on top?

[@christophermirkovich7290]

Here's an odd question would it be safer for a shower and tub to be polyurethaned or using epoxy let's say I painted it and then want a glazed over to the tiles what would be best for shower tiles not the bathtub

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

they would both be slippery so I am not fond of either solutions for showers

[@sanjaalfirevic7383]

Thank you very much for this video! Could you tell me which of these two floors would you recommend for dog kennels that would like to put on concrete floor in big garage. I run small dog and cat rescue and cleaning concrete from urin and poop is hard and wondered which of these two would be less affected by it. Thank you!

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I do not have any data on which would be less affected. I know that sometimes animals slip with their nails on epoxy because it tends to be quite glossy, so maybe PU would be a better solution since it is a bit more slip resistant

[@charnaipoole9592]

Very helpful awesome job explaining everything I was questioning

[@josefinamagallanes8451]

I enjoyed the presentation. But I would like to know your opinion, I love in humid area; Midwest; is epoxy better for my basement????

[@josefinamagallanes8451]

Live

[@oguntadeopeshina546]

Can i use vernis polyurethane as a finishing coat on a epoxy paint?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Yes polyurethane topcoat as a varnish is often used on top of epoxy. Always do your tests first

[@ihelpsed8em]

Awesome. Video. What’s your recommendation for a standard work home garage in Phoenix Arizona??? Depending on the product, when should or what time of year would be the best time?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thank you for your kind words. I take it gets quite hot in Phoenix at this time of the year. You may be faced with really fast potlife not allowing you to apply the products properly. The best time is maybe in September or early June. The weather is still warm and dry but not too hot

[@kaori-3882]

Thank you for videos, I have a trailer with wooden floor I was planning to turn in a shower, but now I understand that neither one of the coating types will be good for this, and its best to replace the wooden floor, I would love your thougts on this, Thanks

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Yeah I wouldn't recommend building a shower on a wooden floor or anything that can absorb moisture and humidity. I would look at some sort of cement mortar with tiles on top

[@21gonza21]

For a countertop, which of both will be more prone to scratches?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Epoxy is usually more prone to scratches. That is why it is common to apply a thin topcoat of polyurethane on top

[@MrTregTims]

Very good presentation. How do I test a floor to determine if it is a PU or a Epoxy before I re coat the floor?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thats a good question! PU tends to have a more rubbery texture while epoxy is a bit harder and glossier. You could dry using a screwdriver or a key to scratch the surface. If it leaves a visible scratch mark then it is probably epoxy. If the scratch has a tendency to disappear (or is very slightly visible) then I would assume that it is a PU

[@browneybako1918]

What are the stages for expoxy application and what are the composition ratio between solvent,hardener and expoxy material at the different stages thanks am waiting for your response the sooner you can

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

As I have mentioned in other videos there is no standard mixing ratio of resin and hardener. As for application steps have a look at the videos on my channel

[@YouTubeNazi]

There are definitely standard mixing ratios for epoxies but there are soooo many difderent systems. Some are 2:1 base to hardener, some 1:1 some 5:1.. Etc etc. And also epoxoes dont have 'solvents' thw correct term is 'reactive diluents' which present themselves in the form of various chain length versatic acid. In any case, ita not recommended to go above 10% for the "solvent" as this affects cure time and end result.

[@oneluv79]

Did he mention home use aside from industry use .. am purchasing a new home and I wanted to change the carpet it comes with.. what will be better for just everyday regular home use

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Polyurethane is better than epoxy for every day use in a house. It is a softer material and gives a warmer feel

[@H_B_R]

how about stain resistance? is it significant?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Difficult chemicals will tend to stain epoxy/ polyurethane in different ways. Some acids last longer on epoxy and others on polyurethane. Overall I would say that polyurethane does a better job of repelling marks from shoes etc

[@H_B_R]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 i couldnt find much info on this. At this point anything will help. So thanks!

[@suki8787]

Hello, I need help. We have a water refilling station and our tiles keeps on discoloring and it's not pleasant to see for a purified water company. I am just wondering if resin can withstand water for a long period of time? pls help

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

What kind of water is this? If it is deionized epoxy might also lose its colour

[@ninjip3460]

Hi, thanks for such an informative video, I’m in NJ USA and planning to do my garage, can you please suggest product and where can I purchase from, my plan is grinding the floor, epoxy coat, vinyl chips, and poly spar tic coat. So can you please suggest, which epoxy base coat and Polyspartic top coat product I should purchase?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Hi unfortunately I am not familiar with US products

[@ninjip3460]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 got it, thanks

[@yekutielbenheshel354]

Very useful information. Thanks!

[@CHILIPEPPERGOURD]

Thank you for well documented information

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

you are welcome, thank you for your kind words!

[@yousefdehghani2050]

Dear sir, do we have something called "Epoxy Crete"? I know we have Polyurthane Crete that we actually mix cement with Polyurthane, but I am not sure about Epoxy mixture with cement.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Yes there are some types of epoxy resins that can be mixed with cement, but I have not personally tried them out

[@agncpurchasing5119]

This video was very helpful! Thank you!

[@babunbhatia2790]

For diagnostic center which is the best flooring..

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

If it is a healthcare diagnostic center, I would go with polyurethane. It is friendlier for the customer

[@dharani312]

Hi sir can i use epoxy coating in concrete rooftops of buildings located close to equator regions which gets too hot in summer Or shall I choose damp proofs paints from some branded paint companies.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

No epoxy should never be used on roofs it is not UV resistant. Check out this video here kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3qZY4Shpq6Dbtk

[@dharani312]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 thank u

[@managingdirector573]

Very good video. Please tell for food processing facility that need to be washed daily, is PU more suitable than epoxy? Also, is is impossible to have sloped PU surface to a drain with no water ponding?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

For food processing the main question what types of foods, acids, chemicals will be exposed to the floor. And you should pick epoxy or PU based on the chemical resistance that you require. If you want a sloped surface, the slope will need to be constructed in the substrate. In other words make the concrete sloped and then you can use a roller to coat over the slope with PU

[@janemerrittmckenna2386]

LearnCoatings - Epoxy Flooring Training 81089.c

[@wanny3256]

Very helpful for my art project, thank you!

[@Jack-fs2im]

I want to know which is the safest to use in a domestic environment.As some say protective clothing is required?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

During the application you should have windows open, wear masks and gloves. Both types require equal measures, cant say that one is more dangerous than the other

[@Gozata1]

Very informative presentation. It helped me to make a decision. Thank you

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Great to hear!

[@nurmus5228]

cost comparison of these materials would be highly appreciated

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

there are so many factors and so many different systems that cost comparisons are not possible

[@pawandeepsinghkohli3669]

Hi. Nice video. Can you suggest which application is better for honey processing industry. PU or Epoxy

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I have used epoxy in honey processing facilities. I prefer it because epoxy has better bond strength on concrete. This can be an issue if the floor is sticky from honey residues

[@youtuber-452]

What would you advice for an epoxy desk/table, use polyurethane yes/no?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Polyurethane will definitely be softer and any scratches will not be as visible!

[@youtuber-452]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 Yes i used 2 coatings, black base coat and clear top coat. But it scratches way to easily. I want it more to behave like glass that can withstand a screwdriver or coin scratches. So with polyurethane i only need a base coat of epoxy? Clean, sand, clean, epoxy, clean/sand, polyurethane?

[@harshachittajallu5824]

How does this Polyuyrethane floor react so harshly with water when Polyurethane is widely accepted as a waterproofing product? Did the reaction happen when the membrane did not cure? Sorry if it seems silly but I'm a lil new to this.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

exactly when PU has not fully cured it is very sensitive to moisture and humidity. Once the floor has cured it forms a water impermeable membrane

[@chemkhan8148]

Sir! It was outstanding. But I need to know that which type of binder should I use to bind churshed tyres to make a shock pad?

[@YouTubeNazi]

30% MDI polyurethane. One example is a product by the name of 'Suprasec 2008' from huntsman. The 2008 is a product code and not a year or anything so dont worry about it being 'old' or something. Crosslink with castor oil. Ratio must be work out deoending on how rigid or flexible you want the cure. 16% Tin octoate catalyst for increased cure speed.

[@luisgcasiquet]

Great content!!!

[@charlesdaniels9087]

Can epoxy be used for waterproofing? I wanted to use it under my aquarium stand. What about in a humid environment ? (It will be humid long after the epoxy dries). Does it crack easily or does it flex a little? Thank you for your answers.

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

epoxy does not really flexible. It can act as a waterproofer as it does not absorb water but it does not have any flexible properties. This is why we prefer to use polyurethane coatings for wateproofing

[@charlesdaniels9087]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 thank you.

[@sunilkumararickattu1845]

Which is best for concrete Waterproofing Epoxy or PU resin? How Epoxy & PU can be thinning and pot life extend?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Waterproofing requires elasticity therefore polyurethane is always recommended compared to epoxy

[@shareefmirza8767]

Hi. Thanks for your videos, they're very informative. can you please advise if you have any information about PU coating over Epoxies?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

You are welcome. Have a look at this article for clear coats learncoatings.com/epoxy-disasters-working-with-clear-coats/

[@manealeonard]

Hi. Can you tell me how slippery a wet polyurethane floor is? Any special measures to increase safety?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

It depends on the texture. If you have a smooth self leveled polyurethane floor it can be quite slippery. One method is to apply a topcoat with a roller to give it some texture. Also you can mix in some quartz for an even grittier surface. And in food industries some companies opt for PU cement screeds that are less slippery

[@goblue2708]

Hello, which would you recommend for a shipping container wood floor that'll be used to store lawn equipment and tractor? Will be ssubjected to fuel, oil and turning the tractor tiresonce inside. Thanks!

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

I would recommend an elastic surface for a shipping container as the wood and the fluctuations in temperature will cause expansions and contractions. Therefore go with polyurethane!

[@goblue2708]

@@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448 Fantastic!! Thanks for the quick response and information. Picking up polyurethane today!!

[@jcpaintingdesign]

Good job, what you think I should use for my garage floor and what brand of product?? Thanks

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

go for epoxy in your garage. Don't know where you are based but I would recommend this ktisis.eu/product/epoxy-floor-coating/

[@YouTubeNazi]

Id recommend a 1K moisture cure Urethane actually. You dont need hectic chemical resistance and i dont think youd be getting excessive amounts of heavy traffic. Also PU are geberally better for hot tyre mark resistance. Also, the PU system might smell more but it will be cheaper. Try out Sapici's ucopol W708. Contact me if you need a formulation.

[@santamariamike]

thanks so much for putting this presentation together. Would you recommend using concrete sealer as a top coat to create a "waterproof" layer?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Thank you. Both epoxy and polyurethane are good waterproofers. A concrete sealer over such a surface would not add anything. In fact concrete sealers have been designed to bond with concrete and not synthetic resins

[@acikgorus1843]

Thank you for your video. I'm interested to apply Polyurethane flooring to a new office, what do you think about that? What about cleaning is it easy? and also if you have any information about acoustics. thank you

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

Polyurethane is suitable for an office since it is softer and less likely to scratch from furniture and chairs. Epoxy will leave more marks on an office floor

[@EleniFouskidouposts]

This might be totally irrelevant to your field but I was wondering if you know on what surfaces water based polyurethane can be applied. More specifically I'm interested to know if I can use PU on wood and canvas materials to create a similar glass looking result to the epoxy. 🤔

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

There are PU coatings specifically formulated for wood floors. So its best that you look at PU varnishes, and you ask for a high gloss one. However these varnishes tend to be applied in thin layers, they are not really suitable for thick layers

[@EleniFouskidouposts]

Thank you, I'll look into it!

[@mohaddismomin9443]

nice video. i want to know the price difference in application of both and what would you prefer for hospital walls and floors ?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

The application procedure is quite similar. Price wise it is hard to compare epoxy with PU because there are many different types of products out there, and some companies are selling waterproofing PU products as being suitable for floors as well. On a hospital floor I would specify PU. You want a more elastic and softer surface for all the foot traffic

[@karenwells6264]

Which one is best for a Recycled rubber mulch walk way?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

You would need to use a pu resin together with the rubber. Epoxy is way too rigid for rubber

[@johnquitas4716]

Is there a general price difference? Is epoxy cheaper?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

They are both in a similar price range. Certain types of PU may be cheaper and also certain types of epoxy coatings may be cheaper. But in general, I would put them in the same range..

[@mnrinteriors1092]

thank you. Video is helpful. what would be best flooring coating for power-loom industries?

[@learncoatings-epoxyfloorin9448]

As I imagine that you will have heavy machinery and also heavy materials to deal with I would recommend epoxy as it can deal better with heavy loads

[@YouTubeNazi]

Power loom? Whats that, care to explain?

[@kg4lod]

@@KZbinNazi Broadly, it's machinery that makes fabric or textile based products (clothing, bedding, drapery, carpets, etc...)