Epoxy vs PU Flooring: How to Choose the Right One for Your Space
When it comes to industrial or commercial flooring solutions, Epoxy and Polyurethane (PU) are two of the most popular choices in Malaysia. Both offer durability, chemical resistance, and a seamless finish — but each comes with its own set of advantages depending on your flooring requirements and environment.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the differences between Epoxy and PU flooring and decide which flooring system is right for your project.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the differences between Epoxy and PU flooring and decide which flooring system is right for your project.
1. Understanding the Basics
Epoxy Flooring
Epoxy flooring is created by mixing epoxy resin with a hardener, forming a rigid, strong, and highly adhesive surface. It is well-known for its hardness and wear resistance, making it ideal for heavy-duty industrial floors.
PU (Polyurethane) Flooring
PU flooring is a thermosetting polymer that is slightly softer and more elastic than epoxy. It offers excellent resistance to thermal shocks, UV light, and certain chemicals, making it ideal for food processing flooring and environments with temperature variations.
2. Key Differences Between Epoxy and PU Flooring
|
Feature
|
Epoxy Flooring
|
PU Flooring
|
|
Durability
|
Extremely hard and impact-resistant
|
Slightly more elastic, absorbs impacts better
|
|
Chemical Resistance
|
Excellent against most chemicals
|
Better resistance to organic acids
|
|
Thermal Resistance
|
Moderate – not ideal for extreme heat/cold fluctuations
|
Excellent – handles thermal shocks well
|
|
UV Resistance
|
May yellow or fade under sunlight
|
Excellent UV stability
|
|
Finish Options
|
High gloss, decorative flakes, coloured coatings
|
Satin/matt finish, also available in colours
|
|
Installation Time
|
Slightly longer curing time
|
Faster curing, depending on type
|
|
Cost
|
Generally more affordable
|
Slightly higher cost due to specialised properties
|
3. When to Choose Epoxy Flooring
Heavy traffic industrial facilities
Warehouses and distribution centres
Manufacturing plants in Malaysia
Warehouses and distribution centres
Manufacturing plants in Malaysia
Areas requiring high compressive strength
Decorative and high-gloss finishes for showrooms
Decorative and high-gloss finishes for showrooms
Why choose it?
Epoxy flooring is incredibly tough and resistant to heavy loads, making it perfect for factory floors, warehouse flooring, and commercial spaces with forklifts, heavy machinery, or constant traffic.
4. When to Choose PU Flooring
Food and beverage processing plants
Cold storage and freezer rooms
Outdoor areas exposed to sunlight
Environments with extreme temperature changes
Breweries, dairy factories, and commercial kitchens
Cold storage and freezer rooms
Outdoor areas exposed to sunlight
Environments with extreme temperature changes
Breweries, dairy factories, and commercial kitchens
Why choose it?
PU flooring handles thermal shock and chemical exposure (especially organic acids) much better than epoxy, making it ideal for industries with hot washes, refrigeration, and strict hygiene requirements.
5. Our Recommendation
If you need maximum strength and abrasion resistance for industrial flooring, Epoxy flooring is your go-to.
If your facility faces thermal shocks, organic acids, or outdoor exposure, PU flooring is the smarter choice.
Choosing between epoxy and PU flooring comes down to your specific industrial flooring requirements and performance needs. The right choice will save you money on repairs, reduce downtime, and keep your facility looking professional for years.
Need expert advice? Contact Polymer Applications (M) Sdn Bhd, a trusted industrial flooring contractor in Malaysia, to discuss the best solution for your project.
US 7159 
GB 7077 
CA 6612 
AU 6464 
IE 3989 
NZ 3180 
BR 970 
CN 875 
