Self-Levelling Epoxy and Polyurethane Resin Floor — When Should You Choose It?

A self-levelling resin floor is a system that creates a more uniform and thicker layer than standard roller-applied concrete coating. It is used where aesthetics, an even surface, greater layer thickness and better functional performance are important.

A self-levelling system can be made with epoxy or polyurethane resin. The right choice depends on the place of application, substrate condition, expected resistance and whether the floor will be used indoors or in more demanding conditions.

How is a self-levelling floor different from a roller-applied system?

A roller-applied system creates a thinner layer and is easier to apply. It works well for protecting concrete, reducing dusting and giving the surface an aesthetic finish.

A self-levelling floor creates a thicker and more uniform layer. However, it requires more precise substrate preparation, careful mixing of the material and the right tools for application.

A self-levelling floor usually requires:

  • - primer resin,
  • - epoxy or polyurethane resin,
  • - a trowel for spreading the material,
  • - spike shoes,
  • - a spike roller,
  • - rollers for priming and, if needed, lacquering.
  •  

When should you choose a self-levelling epoxy floor?

A self-levelling epoxy floor works well indoors, for example in garages, technical rooms, workshops, warehouses and other utility areas.

It is a good choice when you want a smooth, compact and more resistant layer than a simple roller-applied coating. An epoxy system is hard and durable in everyday use, but it is generally not the best solution as an outdoor wearing layer exposed to UV radiation and temperature changes.

For self-levelling epoxy floors, a spike roller is required. It helps release air from the material and reduces the risk of bubbles.

 

When should you choose a self-levelling polyurethane floor?

A self-levelling polyurethane floor is more flexible than a typical epoxy system. It may be a good choice where the substrate works or where greater resistance to changing conditions is needed.

Polyurethane systems are often used where flexibility and UV resistance are important. In many cases, they require a lacquer or sealing layer.

For a polyurethane floor, a spike roller may be recommended, but it is not always required. With a well-prepared, sealed substrate and correctly applied layers, the risk of air bubbles may be lower than in epoxy systems.

 

Substrate preparation for a self-levelling floor

The substrate for a self-levelling floor should be stable, dry, clean and properly prepared mechanically. It should not be greasy, dusty, weak or loose.

Weak concrete areas, cracks and defects should be repaired before starting work. Priming is very important because it improves system adhesion, strengthens the concrete surface and reduces substrate absorbency.

The better the substrate is prepared, the lower the risk of problems during application of the next layers.

 

What tools will be needed?

To apply a self-levelling floor, you may need:

  • - trowel for self-levelling floors,
  • - spike shoes,
  • - a spike roller,
  • - 25 cm resin roller for priming,
  • - a 10 cm roller for edges and details,
  • - low-speed mixer,
  • - mixing containers,
  • - gloves and basic protective accessories.

For a self-levelling epoxy system, the spike roller is treated as a required tool. For a polyurethane system, it may be optional depending on the substrate and preparation method.

 

Is a self-levelling floor suitable for everyone?

A self-levelling floor gives a very good finish, but it requires more precision than a roller-applied system. The substrate must be properly prepared, the components must be mixed correctly, the proportions must be followed and the material must be spread within the correct working time. 

If you want a simpler solution, a roller-applied system or a quartz broadcast system may be sufficient for many garages and technical rooms. A self-levelling floor is worth choosing when you expect a more uniform, thicker and more aesthetic layer.

 

Calculate materials in the calculator

You do not need to select all layers and packages manually. In the calculator, you choose the type of system, area and substrate condition, and the calculator selects the products and full packages.

 

See all resin flooring systems and choose the solution that best fits your application.

      See all resin flooring systems →