For floors that take a beating — heavy traffic, impact, chemicals and temperature swings — polyurethane floor coatings deliver extra toughness and flexibility that a standard epoxy alone cannot. Goliath Coatings installs polyurethane (PU) floor systems across Auckland for demanding commercial and industrial environments.
Why polyurethane floor coatings are tougher
Polyurethane floor coatings are prized for abrasion resistance, flexibility and the ability to handle thermal movement and chemical exposure without cracking. Because PU flexes slightly, it tolerates the expansion and contraction that rigid coatings struggle with — which is why it is the go-to topcoat over an epoxy build, combining epoxy bond strength with PU durability and UV stability.
Where PU floors suit
We use polyurethane systems for warehouses, factories and workshops with heavy traffic; areas exposed to chemicals, oils or solvents; floors that see impact, abrasion or temperature change such as coolstores and wash-down zones; commercial kitchens and processing areas; and anywhere a durable, UV-stable topcoat is needed over an epoxy base.
Choosing the right resin system
PU is one of several resin systems we work with — alongside epoxy, polyaspartic and cementitious urethane. We assess how your floor is actually used, the temperatures and chemicals it sees, and the downtime you can afford, then specify the system or combination that will hold up. Then we prepare the concrete properly so the coating bonds and lasts.
The products and systems we use
Polyurethane floor coatings flex and resist abrasion and UV where epoxy alone would chalk or crack. We use high-solids systems such as Mapei Mapefloor Finish 57 and flexible Mapefloor Finish 415 for high-traffic aisles and loading docks, and gloss two-pack Altex Carbothane 134 HG where a tough, colour-stable topcoat is needed (AS/NZS 3750.6, food-area approved). PU is the right call for thermal movement, wheeled traffic and exterior-exposed floors.
Why choose Goliath Coatings
Industrial floor coatings are a specialty. We own our prep and application equipment, specify premium systems matched to the job, and back every project with genuine 5-star Auckland reviews. You get a free on-site assessment and a one-business-day response.
Polyurethane floor coating FAQs
Q: Epoxy or polyurethane — which do I need?
A: Often both: an epoxy build for bond and thickness, with a polyurethane topcoat for abrasion, flexibility and UV resistance. We use the right combination for your floor.
Q: Can polyurethane floor coatings handle chemical spills?
A: Yes — polyurethane has strong chemical and abrasion resistance, which is why it suits workshops, coolstores and processing areas.
Q: Will a PU floor yellow in sunlight?
A: No — unlike many epoxies, polyurethane is UV-stable and holds its colour, so it suits floors that see daylight.
Q: When is polyurethane better than epoxy?
A: When the floor sees UV, thermal movement, heavy wheeled traffic or needs a more flexible, colour-stable finish — PU topcoats like Mapefloor Finish 57 or Carbothane 134 HG handle that better than epoxy alone.
