Polymer flooring is a group of high-tech coatings based on synthetic resins, which are used in industry, logistics, shopping malls, parking lots, as well as in private interiors and garages. They are chosen for their durability, seamlessness, chemical resistance and ability to operate under high mechanical loads. Despite the popularity of the technology, the approach to the choice of polymer coating remains unobvious for many customers. It is important to understand what systems exist, how they differ and what requirements are imposed on the concrete substrate
Determination
What is a polymer floor
Polymer flooring is a coating formed from epoxy, polyurethane or cement-polymer compositions. After application, the material polymerizes, creating a monolithic protective layer on the surface of the concrete floor.
Key Features:
seamlessness - no joints or seams;
high strength - works well under machinery loads;
resistance to chemical attack;
hygienic - easy to clean, dust-free;
Durability - service life up to 20 years with proper preparation;
aesthetics - possibility of decorative solutions.
Polymer floor coating has the ability to penetrate the pores of concrete to form a strong adhesion and protected substrate.
Types
Main types of polymer floors
The systems differ in chemical composition, performance properties and applications.
1. epoxy polymer coatings
These are strong and rigid systems formed with epoxy resins.
Features:
high mechanical resistance;
resistance to chemicals and oils;
low elasticity.
Used in:
production facilities;
logistics centers;
pharmaceutical and chemical plants;
High-load warehouses
Epoxy poured flooring is suitable for sites with high requirements for wear resistance and cleanliness.
2. Polyurethane polymer coatings
Polyurethane floors are more resilient and can withstand shock, vibration and temperature fluctuations well.
Features:
resiliency;
high resistance to vibration;
resistance to temperature fluctuations;
comfortable feeling underfoot.
Recommended for:
parking lots;
high-traffic areas;
objects with vibration loads;
rooms where impact and dynamic effects are required.
Polyurethane polymer floors are suitable where a balance between strength and elasticity is important.
3. Cement-polymer and concrete-polymer systems
The combination of cement and polymer compounds creates durable coatings with increased thickness.
Benefits:
high durability;
good moisture resistance;
the possibility of restoring unevenness of the substrate.
Applied to:
industrial premises with high loads;
repair work;
wet areas.
4. Polymer-stone coatings
These are decorative and wear-resistant coatings filled with stone chips.
Benefits:
good mechanical resistance;
expressive texture;
decorativeness.
Used in retail spaces, offices, showrooms.
5. SPC Floors (Stone Polymer Composite)
Composite coatings based on stone flour and polymers.
Features:
stable geometry;
moisture resistance;
durability and wear resistance;
decorative possibilities.
SPC flooring is used in commercial and residential interiors.
Features
Installation of polymer poured flooring
The system of polymer floor coating includes several mandatory steps:
1. Preparation of the base
This is the most important stage. It includes:
concrete grinding;
dedusting;
crack repair;
seam repair.
According to tConcrete's practice, most polymer flooring defects are due to substrate preparation errors, not the composition.
2. Priming
It is necessary to strengthen the surface and ensure adhesion.
3. Leveling layer (if necessary)
It is used to remove small irregularities.
4. Application of base coat
Epoxy or polyurethane material forms the base of the coating.
5. Decorative or protective layer
For example:
polyurethane varnishes,
antistatic systems,
anti-slip coating,
decorative chip.
Thickness of polymer floors
Norms and operational requirements
The thickness of the coating affects its durability and ability to perform under loads. Typical values:
0.2-0.5 mm - thin layer coatings;
0,5-1 mm - surface coloring;
1-2 mm - standard pouring systems;
2-4 mm - heavy duty coatings;
5 mm and above - reinforced industrial solutions.
Properly selected thickness allows for an optimum ratio of cost and service life of the coating.
Application
Polymer flooring in industry
Industrial polymer flooring is chosen wherever it is required:
high durability;
chemical resistance;
Hygiene;
wear and tear under machinery;
minimal dusting.
Requirements for production coatings include:
ability to withstand forklift traffic;
no slipping;
resistance to aggressive environments;
quick cleanup capability.
Polymer manufacturing floors are part of the infrastructure that affects the economics of operation.
Application
Polymer flooring for the home and garage
For household tasks choose:
polyurethane coatings - for garages;
decorative systems - for interiors;
SPC floors are for residential areas.
Benefits:
resistance to oils and chemicals (in the garage);
moisture resistance;
durability;
Aesthetics.
Polymer poured garage flooring is a popular solution that provides concrete protection and a pleasing appearance.
Materials
Materials for polymer flooring
The practical system includes:
primers;
epoxy and polyurethane bases;
silica sand for reinforcement;
finishing varnishes;
antistatic additives;
decorative components.
The selection of materials depends on the load, thickness requirements and operating conditions.
Cost
Cost of polymer flooring
Usually calculated per square meter and depends on:
of the coating thickness;
type of material (epoxy, polyurethane, cement-polymer system);
the condition of the foundation;
chemical resistance requirements;
of the work area.
Specific values depend on the project: polymer floors differ in composition, purpose and complexity of installation.
Main points
Advantages of polymer flooring
Polymer floors are designed for long-term operation and retain their properties even under high mechanical loads.
The coating penetrates the pores of concrete, reduces dusting and prevents deterioration of the substrate by moisture and chemicals.
Polymer systems withstand forklift traffic, cart traffic and heavy traffic without cracking or chipping.
The floors are resistant to oils, acids, alkalis and water, which is especially important for production and storage areas.
The absence of seams simplifies cleaning, eliminates dirt accumulation and meets sanitary requirements.
The type of polymer, thickness and additional layers are tailored to the specific site - from a garage to an industrial workshop.
The high durability reduces future repair costs and downtime.
If you are looking for ways to reduce costs in the construction and operation of your facilities, contact the tConcrete team
We look forward to receiving your application. You can share your resume, portfolio and cover letter at hr@tconcrete.ru or send your project to hello@tconcrete.ru
