Polyaspartic and polyurethane floors are, on the surface, very similar topcoats. However, there are significant differences between the two options. They differ, especially in cure time and downtime from installation. Knowing those differences can help you get the most out of your flooring. Nobody knows your needs better than you, but knowing how to best meet them can be a challenge.
At CustomCrete, we’ve spent over 20 years helping businesses like yours select the best flooring solutions for their needs. From industrial settings to commercial spaces, we know which coating will deliver the best results for your situation.
In this article, we will cover:
- What are polyaspartic topcoats, and when are they the best option?
- What are polyurethane topcoats, and when are they the best option?
- When should you choose polyaspartic topcoats?
- When should you choose polyurethane topcoats?
- Polyaspartic vs. Polyurethane Topcoats: A Quick Comparison
- How to choose the right flooring for your business.
what are polyaspartic topcoats and where are they the best option?
Polyaspartic topcoats are durable coatings that are used to protect floors in spaces that face heavy traffic, oils or chemical spills, or temperature fluctuations. These coatings cure quickly, within 2-6 hours, which cuts downtime during installation. This quick curing time makes polyaspartic an excellent option for businesses that can’t afford long closures or downtime.
Polyaspartic coatings are UV-resistant. (They won't turn yellow or degrade when exposed to ultraviolet light.) This makes them perfect for areas with windows or garage doors. They also offer spill and chemical resistance, ensuring that floors remain protected in challenging environments.
However, polyaspartic topcoats are somewhat limited in texture options, as they do not hold broadcast as well as other options. This means that if you want to add a texture it will appear diffuse and you will have less control over the final outcome than you would have with other options.
What Are Polyurethane Topcoats and Where Are They the Best Option?
Polyurethane topcoats are known for their superior scratch resistance and color retention/uv stability. They take 12-24 hours to cure, meaning they require more downtime compared to polyaspartic coatings. This longer curing time allows for more flexibility in texture. Resulting in a range of finishes from smooth to rough for better slip resistance and aesthetic appeal.
Like polyaspartic coatings, polyurethane also offers chemical resistance making it a great option for high-traffic industrial areas or refrigerated spaces. While polyurethane coatings are highly durable, their longer curing time may not be ideal if downtime is a critical factor for your business.
Polyurethane is a thinner coating (around 2-3 milometers), if going over a heavily textured floor will require an epoxy grout coat to help cover the aggregate texture.
Pros of Polyaspartic Topcoats
Cure Time: Polyaspartic coatings cure fast, usually within 2-6 hours, allowing for less downtime and getting your business back up and running faster.
UV Resistance: Polyaspartic coatings are resistant to UV damage, so they won’t yellow or degrade when exposed to sunlight. This makes them a great option for spaces with natural light or outdoor areas.
Durability in Harsh Environments: These coatings are durable and resistant to oil and chemical spills. They also stand up to heavy foot traffic and impacts.
Cons of Polyaspartic Topcoats
Installation Challenges: Polyaspartic coatings cure rapidly, which makes their correct application challenging. Professional installation is recommended to avoid issues with adhesion, bubbling, cracking, or failure.
Pros of Polyurethane Topcoats
Texture Versatility: Polyurethane coatings offer excellent flexibility when it comes to texture. Whether you need a smooth finish or a rougher texture for slip resistance, polyurethane can meet those needs.
Gloss: Polyurethane is available in gloss or satin finishes. This gives you more options on the look of your floors when you choose a polyurethane finish.
Chemical and Moisture Protection: These coatings are also resistant to oil and chemical spills. It also stands up to general wet conditions.
Cons of Polyurethane Topcoats
Long Cure Time: Polyurethane coatings take 12-24 hours to fully cure, which means more downtime for your business. This could be an issue if you need to cut disruptions in your operations.
Slower Installation: Because of the longer cure time, the installation for polyurethane coatings is slower compared to polyaspartic. This will mean more downtime.
When Should You Choose Polyaspartic Topcoats?
Polyaspartic topcoats are the best choice when downtime is a major concern. If your business needs to get back to operation fast, polyaspartic coatings, which cure in just 2-6 hours, will allow you to return to service sooner. They are also a great option for spaces that are subject to lots of sunlight, as they won’t yellow over time.
When Should You Choose Polyurethane Topcoats?
Polyurethane coatings are ideal for businesses that need more texture options and can handle a longer downtime. These coatings are perfect if you need a specific texture finish or more rugged surface for slip resistance. Polyurethane is highly scratch-resistant and comes in a satin finish. Its fine texture adds slip resistance and durability, while also being easy to clean.
Polyaspartic vs. Polyurethane Topcoats: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Polyaspartic Topcoats | Polyurethane Topcoats |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Very High | Very High |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Curing Time | Fast (2-6 hours) | Moderate (12-24 hours) |
| Cost | High Initial Cost | High Initial Cost |
| Texture Options | Fewer Options (Diffuse, Textured) | More Options (Smooth to Coarse) |
Making the Right Flooring Decision for Your Needs
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Choosing between polyaspartic and polyurethane topcoats depends on your business’s specific needs. If you need a thicker, more durable coating, UV resistance, and low m aintenance, and a faster installation with less downtime, polyaspartic is the better choice. But, if you need a textured solution with excellent chemical and moisture resistance, and you can handle a little more downtime, polyurethane would be the right option for you instead.
Now that you understand the differences between polyurethane and polyaspartic topcoats, think about your business's needs and consider how quickly you need the job done. Think about your texture needs. Once you know your priorities, your next step is to take a look at price ranges and see what solution best fits your budget.
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