Polyurethane Screeds are high-performance, thin-layer flooring systems made from polyurethane resins. They are used as a wear-resistant topping or smoothing layer over concrete substrates to provide a durable, seamless, and chemically resistant surface for industrial environments.

Key Features of Polyurethane Screeds:

1. Durability – Resistant to heavy traffic, impact, abrasion, and mechanical stress, making them ideal for warehouses, factories, and logistics centres.

2. Chemical Resistance – Withstands oils, fuels, acids, and cleaning agents, suitable for food processing plants, automotive facilities, and chemical storage areas.

3. Fast Installation & Curing – Can be applied in thin layers (3–6 mm typically) and cure quickly, minimising downtime in industrial settings.

4. Seamless & Hygienic – Joint-free surface prevents dirt accumulation, making it easy to clean and compliant with hygiene standards (e.g., FDA, BRC, or HACCP in food industries).

5. Thermal Stability – Performs well under temperature fluctuations, reducing cracking risks compared to traditional cementitious screeds.

6. Slip Resistance – Can be formulated with anti-slip additives for safer working environments.

Comparison to Other Screeds:

• Cementitious Screeds: Thicker, slower curing, and prone to cracking.

• Epoxy Screeds: Hard but less flexible; polyurethane offers better thermal movement resistance.

• Polymer-Modified Screeds: Polyurethane versions are more elastic and chemical-resistant.

Applications in UK Industrial Floors:

• Manufacturing & Warehousing – High-load areas with forklift traffic.

• Food & Beverage Facilities – Hygienic, easy-to-sanitise floors.

• Pharmaceutical & Cleanrooms – Dust-free, non-porous surfaces.

• Automotive & Aviation Hangars – Resistant to fuels and hydraulic fluids.

• Retail & Logistics – Smooth, aesthetically pleasing floors with high durability.

Installation Process:

1. Substrate Preparation – Concrete must be clean, dry, and sound (may require priming).

2. Mixing & Application – Polyurethane resin is mixed with fillers and applied via trowel or pump.

3. Finishing – Smoothed or textured depending on slip resistance needs.

4. Curing – Typically walkable in hours, fully cured in 24–72 hours.

Leading UK Brands/Suppliers:

• Flowcrete (Polyurethane flooring systems)

• Sika (Sikagard-700 PU)

• BASF (MasterTop polyurethane solutions)

• Fosroc (Nitotop PU screeds)

Polyurethane screeds are increasingly popular in the UK due to their longevity, low maintenance, and adaptability to harsh industrial conditions.