Have you heard the terminologies polyurea and polyaspartic as floor coating? Most of the time, people often confuse these two. Though polyurea and polyaspartic are standard options for floor coating, there is a significant difference between them. Hopefully, this article will help you better understand them.
What are Polyurea and Polyaspartic?
Polyurea is an elastomer type formed when isocyanates react with amines or amides. It is a polymer with many applications, including coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers. Polyurea coatings are known for their exceptional abrasion resistance and toughness. They are also resistant to chemicals, UV rays, and extreme temperatures.
On the other hand, polyaspartic is a polymer made from aspartic acid. It is a thermoplastic elastomer that finds application in coatings and adhesives. Polyaspartic coatings are known for their excellent abrasion resistance and toughness. They are also resistant to chemicals, UV rays, and extreme temperatures.
So, what’s the difference between polyurea and polyaspartic? Here is a quick rundown of points that sets them apart:
Coating Materials Differ Physically
Polyurea is made from isocyanates, while polyaspartic comes from aspartic acid. Polyurea coatings are usually white or light-colored in color, whereas pigmented polyaspartics can be transparent or have color added to them. When it comes to flexibility, polyurea will win out every time against its counterpart; however, when it comes to preventing cracks and chips – both perform equally well.
Different Functions and Performance
Polyurea is typically a protective coating for surfaces exposed to high wear and tear, such as concrete floors in factories or warehouses. Polyaspartic, on the other hand, is often used as a decorative coating for surfaces such as garage floors. When it comes to performance, polyaspartic coatings offer better resistance to salt, oil, and gas than polyurea coatings.
Application Process Varies
The application process of polyurea is quite different from polyaspartic. Polyurea can be applied using plural-component spray equipment, whereas polyaspartic needs to be roll-on or trowel-on. When it comes to curing time, polyurea coatings cure quickly, whereas polyaspartic layers take a bit longer to heal.
Is it possible to use both Polyurea and Polyaspartic as floor coating solutions?
The answer is YES! They work best when combined. These pair of coatings will protect your floor from abrasion, wear and tear, chemical spills, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. If you are searching for a coating that will last for years, a polyurea and polyaspartic floor coating may be the right choice. These coatings are some of the most durable on the market and can work on garage floors, pool decks, sidewalks, and more.
For What Purposes Do People Use Polyurea and Polyaspartic?
You’ll see polyurea and polyaspartic coatings in many places because they work well for commercial and residential concrete flooring. Popular locations include the following:
- In-store Displays
High-traffic areas need a suitable coating to make an excellent first impression on visitors.
- Garages for professional and domestic use
These coatings won’t harm your floor with oil, chemicals, grease, and other destructive materials.
- Shops and commercial establishments
Store owners often use polyurea or polyaspartic coatings to keep their floors looking good. Additionally, you can find them in high-traffic commercial areas like malls.
- Beer and restaurant establishments
Due to their chemical resistance and stain-proofing properties, these coatings are famous for restaurants and breweries. While preserving intricate designs, they can protect flooring from spills, heavy foot traffic, and grease.
Key Takeaways
Polyurea and polyaspartic may have differences in a way, but they can complement each other, offering the best result for your floor coating project. It is best to explore this possibility with the experts like Epoxy Flooring Pros Pasco County, as they know how to apply these coatings properly. So, if you are searching for a coating that will last for years, a polyurea and polyaspartic floor coating may be the right choice.
