PU (Polyurethane Cement) Flooring vs. Ceramic Tiles

by | Jul 4, 2018 | Polished Concrete

Choosing the right floor for an industrial setting has always been a tricky endeavor. Contractors know that commercial grade carpets and hardwood floors aren’t going to be able to withstand the pressure,  friction and ability to be continuously cleaned aggressively. The two most common types of flooring that have been installed historically in food processing areas are Epoxy Flooring and ceramic tiles. Both have incredibly hard surfaces that can hold up well under machinery, heavy foot traffic, and more. Now, there’s an entirely new option known as polyurethane (PU) cement.

In relation to ceramic tiles, how does this type of resinous cement stand up to the pressure of daily business in processing area or industrial setting? Find out how the two areas compare and why PU cement is the obvious choice for your next project in this simple guide and comparison.

Resistant to Chemical Spills

Many industrial businesses work with dangerous chemicals that can quickly erode the flooring if spilled. Ceramic tiles (especially the grout lines) will eventually break down with continued exposure to these chemicals, causing an entire floor replacement to be necessary. On the other hand, PU cement was created with chemical spills in mind. No matter how many things your crew spills on this type of floor, it’s going to remain pristine for years to come without sacrificing any of its other amazing properties.

Slip-Resistant

Contractors often choose to tile floors because they are perceived to be fairly slip-resistant, an important safety feature to look for in an industrial floor. They don’t absorb any liquids that are spilled on them, making them less slick and easier to clean. The surface of the tile often has some degree of grip to allow people to walk over them while wet. However, none of these features compares to the slip-resistance found in PU cement. PU cement is extremely slip-resistant because you can vary the aggregate choice, allowing for extra traction in the workplace. Industrial warehouses can customize the degree of slip-resistance that works for them.

Cleanliness

Keeping everything clean should be a priority for any business, but can you really clean your tiles? The grout lines between them are rarely able to be thoroughly cleaned, allowing them to harbor harmful bacteria, germs, and residue from former spills. PU cement is the better option for a hygienic surface because it is all one seamless piece that doesn’t give bacteria a place to hide. Particularly when drains are installed, PU cement is going to be extremely easy to clean and help to keep your workplace safer.

Are you finally convinced that PU cement is going to be the perfect choice for your next project at work? You’ll uncover a number of important benefits that are inherent to this type of flooring. Allow TCF West to help you install your best investment yet. We offer a 10-year extended warranty on concrete floors installation so that you can have peace of mind that your business is protected. Contact us today to see how we can help you transform your industrial business into a safer and cleaner environment!

Michael-Rosenblat-

Technical Concrete Finishes

CEOMichael Rosenblat

With over 20 years in the field of technical concrete finishes, I offer a deep experience and precision in design and application of concrete floors. As founder of TCF West, I lead my team in crafting durable, aesthetically striking industrial floors. In this blog, I share industry insights to help elevate your space through quality flooring. Let’s connect to transform your environment with custom floors that meet your needs.