Polyurethane in construction
Polyurethane (PUR or PU) is a polymer formed by the reaction of isocyanates and polyols. Fully cured polyurethane products are inert and non-toxic.
The properties of polyurethane are influenced by the types of isocyanates and polyols used to make them. They can range from tough or rigid materials, through to flexible materials.
Polyurethane can be used to make products that are both strong and lightweight, as well as being durable and highly versatile. It is a key ingredient in several types of high-efficiency insulation materials (such as rigid foam insulation panels), For more information, see Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures.
It is also used for paints and other coatings, microcellular foam seals and gaskets, wheels and tyres, sealants, binders and adhesives.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Composites.
- Cork flooring.
- Curtain wall systems.
- Expanding foam.
- Nylon.
- Plastic.
- Polycarbonate plastic.
- Polyethylene.
- Polymeric flooring.
- Polymers.
- Polystyrene.
- Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures.
- Polyvinyl chloride PVC.
- Rubber.
- Sealants.
- Using CO2 to make construction products and materials.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.




















