STRIZO: manufacturer of PU binder for flooring systems

With decorative resin floors, it is not only the aggregate that is decisive. The PU binder also plays an important role. The binder bonds decorative gravel, marble granules or other suitable granules into a single strong, seamless floor finish. In addition, it influences the adhesion, flexibility, application and durability of the complete flooring system.

STRIZO develops and manufactures resin-bound products for professional flooring systems. We supply PU binders used in, among other things, decorative gravel floors, marble stone floors and other decorative floor finishes. These products are suitable for sole traders, small businesses and private individuals looking for a suitable binder for their floor project.

What is PU binder?

PU binder is a binder based on polyurethane resin. It is mixed with decorative gravel, marble granules or other suitable aggregates. After curing, it holds the granules together to create a seamless, decorative floor.

A transparent PU binder is particularly suitable for floors where the colour and structure of the aggregate need to remain visible. That makes the binder an important component of decorative gravel and marble stone floors.

A good PU binder contributes to:

• good adhesion to a properly prepared substrate;
• sufficient flexibility in the event of temperature variations;
• a sustainable flooring finish;
• resistance to normal mechanical stress;
• preservation of the natural appearance of decorative gravel or marble.

What is PU binder used for?

PU binder is widely used for decorative flooring systems with loose aggregates. The granulate provides the desired colour, texture and appearance. The binder forms the connection between the granules and turns them into one cohesive floor finish.

Common applications include:

• decorative gravel carpets;
• marble stone floors;
• patios;
• balconies;
• galleries;
• starters;
• living spaces;
• light commercial spaces.

The correct application always depends on the substrate, the load, the desired appearance and the conditions during processing.

PU binder for decorative gravel flooring

A decorative gravel floor consists of decorative gravel and a transparent binder. This gives the floor a decorative and natural appearance. Decorative gravel floors are used in homes, entrances, hallways, showrooms, on balconies and on terraces. The chosen PU binder must match the grain size, layer thickness and application well. Proper substrate preparation and a consistent mixing method are also important for the final result.

STRIZO supplies various granulates for synthetic resin floors. By properly matching the granulate and binder, a reliable basis for a decorative flooring system is created.

PU binder for marble and marble stone

Marble granules give floors a luxurious and natural appearance. In combination with a transparent PU binder, the colour and grain structure remain visible. This creates a marble stone floor with a seamless finish. Marble stone is used, among other things, on patios, balconies, walkways, in hallways, and in living spaces. For exterior work, it is important that the chosen binder is suitable for the conditions and that the system is carefully applied.

Why choose a PU binder?

PU binder is often chosen when lasting flexibility is desired. This property is relevant in applications where temperature fluctuations or limited movement of the substrate may occur, such as on balconies, terraces and walkways. In addition, transparency and UV resistance are important properties for decorative systems. The binder must support the appearance of the granulate and be suitable for the conditions in which the floor is used.

Which PU binder is suitable depends, among other things, on:

• the chosen grain type and grain size;
• the application indoors or outdoors;
• the floor loading;
• the required layer thickness;
• the subsoil;
• the processing temperature and humidity;
• the desired finish, for example with a topcoat.

PU binder or epoxy binder?

PU and epoxy are both resins used in flooring systems, but they have different properties. PU binder is generally permanently more flexible. Therefore, it is often used in decorative flooring systems for terraces, balconies and walkways, among other things. Epoxy is generally harder and is often chosen when different requirements are placed on the floor. Which binder fits best depends not only on the material, but above all on the complete system structure, the substrate and the ultimate load.

If in doubt, always ask for advice on the correct binder and flooring structure for your project.

Substrate and preparation: the basis for a good result

A good bonding agent only works well on a properly prepared substrate. Concrete, sand-cement and other mineral substrates must be load-bearing, clean, dry and free of dust, grease and loose particles. The substrate is usually prepared mechanically, for example by blasting or sanding. Damage and larger cracks must be repaired beforehand. Expansion joints must also always be respected.

For good adhesion, a suitable primer with quartz sand can be applied. The preparation required depends on the substrate and the chosen flooring system.

Applying PU binder with granules

PU binders often consist of two components which are carefully mixed together before application. After that, the binder is evenly distributed through the decorative gravel, marble or other granulate.

During processing, please pay attention to the following points:

• mix the components thoroughly and carefully;
• use the same mixing time for each batch;
• work on a dry, well-prepared surface;
• process within the specified processing time;
• take temperature and humidity into account;
• protect exterior work against rain and moisture during application and curing.

PU binder can react to moisture. Contact with water or rain during application and curing can cause foaming, among other things. Good protection against the weather is therefore essential for outdoor work.

Strizo polyurethane binder for decorative floor systems

STRIZO develops and supplies PU binders for various decorative applications. Within the range is Strizo PU 260 an example of a transparent, two-component PU binder for decorative gravel and marble. This product is suitable for interior and exterior applications under normal traffic, such as patios, balconies and walkways. Which product variant is most appropriate depends on the granulate, the substrate, the application and the desired finish. Therefore, we always advise looking at the complete flooring system, and not just the binder.

When is PU binder less suitable?

Not every surface requires the same system. For heavily loaded applications, such as garages, driveways and car parks, a decorative PU binder system is not always the right solution. Higher demands may apply there regarding mechanical load, build-up and finishing. Technical advice is also advisable if there is any doubt about substrate moisture, cracking or the load. This prevents a product that is good in itself from being used in a system that does not suit the situation.