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Polyurethane vs Polyaspartic For Your Floor
By TorontoConcreteRepair on December 9, 2022
Your concrete floor takes a lot of abuse, from heavy vehicles and foot traffic to spills and stains. That’s why it’s important to choose the right coating for your floor that can withstand all these challenges. Two of the most popular options are Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings.
How do you decide which one to choose?
In this article, we’ll compare Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings and help you make an informed decision about which one is best for your floor.
Differences and Similarities
Both Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings are popular options for garage floors, but they have some key differences and similarities.
Installation time: Polyaspartic coatings cure quickly, meaning your garage can be ready to use in just a day or two. Polyurethane coatings take longer to cure, typically around three days.
Durability: Both Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings are highly durable and resistant to chemicals, oil, and abrasion. However, Polyaspartic coatings are generally more resistant to UV light, which can cause fading or yellowing.
Appearance: Polyurethane coatings typically have a glossy finish that can enhance the appearance of your garage floor. Polyaspartic coatings can be customized with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look.
Cost: Polyurethane coatings are generally less expensive than Polyaspartic coatings. However, Polyaspartic coatings’ quick installation time may offset the higher cost for some homeowners.
Pros and Cons
Now that we’ve compared the differences and similarities between Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings, let’s take a closer look at their pros and cons.
Polyurethane Coatings
PROs
Affordable: Polyurethane coatings are typically less expensive than Polyaspartic coatings.
Glossy Finish: Polyurethane coatings have a glossy finish that can enhance the appearance of your garage floor.
Durable: Polyurethane coatings are highly durable and resistant to chemicals, oil, and abrasion.
CONs
Long Installation Time: Polyurethane coatings take longer to cure than Polyaspartic coatings, typically around three days.
Yellowing: Polyurethane coatings can yellow over time if exposed to UV light.
Polyaspartic Coatings
PROs
Quick Installation Time: Polyaspartic coatings cure quickly, meaning your garage can be ready to use in just a day or two.
UV Resistant: Polyaspartic coatings are more resistant to UV light than Polyurethane coatings, which can cause fading or yellowing.
Customizable: Polyaspartic coatings can be customized with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look.
CONs
More Expensive: Polyaspartic coatings are generally more expensive than Polyurethane coatings.
Matte Finish: Polyaspartic coatings typically have a matte finish, which may not be as visually appealing as a glossy finish.
FAQs
While it’s possible to apply these coatings yourself, it’s best to hire a professional for the job. Applying these coatings requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Both Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings can last for several years with proper care and maintenance. Polyaspartic coatings may have a slight advantage in terms of longevity due to their UV resistance.
Yes, both Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings are designed to withstand heavy vehicles and foot traffic.
Yes, these coatings are suitable for concrete garage floors and can help protect them from damage.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings for your floor, there are several factors to consider. Polyurethane coatings are affordable and have a glossy finish, but take longer to cure and may yellow over time. Polyaspartic coatings cure quickly, are more UV resistant, and can be customized with different colors and textures, but are more expensive and have a matte finish.
Ultimately, the choice between Polyurethane and Polyaspartic coatings comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a cost-effective option with a glossy finish, Polyurethane may be the way to go. If you’re willing to invest more for a customizable, UV-resistant coating with a quicker installation time, Polyaspartic may be the better choice.
No matter which option you choose, make sure to hire a professional to apply the coating and follow proper care and maintenance procedures to ensure the longevity and durability of your garage floor.