What Is Urethane Cement?

Urethane cement (also called polyurethane concrete or urethane mortar) combines cement, aggregate, and urethane resin into one seamless, high-strength system.
Unlike traditional epoxy, which bonds to the surface of a slab, urethane cement chemically fuses with it — creating a dense, thermal shock–resistant surface built to withstand constant abuse.

It’s this hybrid composition that gives urethane cement its unique performance edge.

The Limitations of Epoxy in Harsh Environments

Epoxy remains one of the most popular flooring systems on the market, but it has limits. When exposed to constant temperature swings, high-moisture environments, or chemical washdowns, epoxy can:

  • Crack or delaminate under thermal shock

  • Discolor or soften when exposed to acids and alkalis

  • Lose traction in wet zones

  • Require downtime for maintenance and recoating

In contrast, urethane cement thrives under these same conditions.

Why Urethane Cement Is Surging in Popularity

1. Thermal Shock Resistance

Urethane cement expands and contracts with the substrate, making it ideal for spaces that experience temperature swings — like freezers, dishwashing areas, and breweries.

While epoxy often fails at around 130°F, urethane cement can withstand hot washdowns exceeding 250°F without peeling or cracking.

2. Chemical and Impact Resistance

Acids, alkalis, fats, and oils can eat through epoxy over time. The dense matrix of urethane cement resists chemical corrosion while also absorbing impact from heavy equipment, carts, and forklifts.

3. Moisture Tolerance

Urethane cement can be applied directly to green or damp concrete, unlike epoxy, which requires perfectly dry conditions. This allows projects to move forward even when schedules are tight or environments are humid.

4. Slip Resistance and Hygiene

When broadcast with quartz or aluminum oxide, urethane cement provides long-lasting traction and meets USDA and FDA hygiene standards, making it ideal for food and beverage environments.

5. Low Odor and Rapid Cure

Because urethane cement is low in VOCs and cures quickly, it’s often installed in active facilities with minimal disruption.

Typical Environments Where Urethane Cement Excels

  • Food & Beverage Facilities: Withstands steam cleaning and sanitation chemicals

  • Pharmaceutical & Biotech Labs: Maintains sterility under high foot traffic

  • Cold Storage & Freezers: Handles freeze/thaw cycles and washdowns

  • Commercial Kitchens & Breweries: Combines safety, durability, and hygiene

  • Chemical Manufacturing: Resists acids, solvents, and aggressive cleaners

Installation Process

  1. Surface Preparation: Achieve correct Concrete Surface Profile (CSP 4–6).

  2. Priming: Some systems use epoxy primer for extra adhesion, others apply directly.

  3. Base Application: Mix and trowel urethane cement to desired thickness (1/4"–3/8").

  4. Broadcast / Topcoat: Add anti-slip aggregate or urethane seal for added protection.

  5. Cure: Ready for light use within 12–24 hours, full cure within 72 hours.

This fast turnaround allows facilities to return to production without lengthy shutdowns.

Cost vs. Longevity

While the upfront cost of urethane cement is slightly higher than epoxy, the return on investment is significant. Over a 10-year span, it often outperforms other systems due to:

  • Fewer repairs and recoats

  • Lower downtime costs

  • Improved compliance and safety metrics

In many cases, it’s the last floor a facility will ever need.

Surface Solutions’ Approach

Our team evaluates each facility’s environment before recommending a system. We consider:

  • Temperature cycles

  • Chemical exposure

  • Cleanliness and sanitation standards

  • Downtime tolerance

  • Budget and lifecycle expectations

Then we design and install a system engineered to last—often combining urethane cement with epoxy or polished concrete for hybrid results.

The Future of Industrial Flooring

As sustainability and long-term value become priorities, urethane cement’s combination of strength, flexibility, and compliance positions it as the next industry default.
For clients who need a floor that performs where others fail, this hybrid system delivers both peace of mind and measurable ROI.

📞 Call 877-CSTM-FLR
 📧 Email carolina@cstmflr.com 🌐 Visit www.cstmflr.com

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