Unveiling the Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Polyurethane and Urethane Sealants

When it comes to sealants, polyurethane and urethane are often the top two choices. It is important to know the different effects of polyurethane and urethane sealants to make sure the right one is chosen for the job.

Polyurethane sealants are quick-drying and moisture-cured sealants that are used for sealing joints in walls and floors, and work well on concrete, wood, masonry, and metals. It also seals and bonds fiberglass panels and has a permanent elasticity in all weather conditions. When polyurethane sealant dries, it produces a tough elastic-type seal that is resistant to water and ultra-violet radiation.

Urethane sealant is a clear interior sealant mainly used on porous materials such as concrete, slate, and terracotta. It has high protective qualities in heavy traffic areas and is resistant to grease, oil, gasoline, and food splashes. Urethane sealants come in caulk form which will seal joints in bathrooms and kitchens and create a firm grip on most surfaces. Urethane is not recommended for use with glass or for joints where the movement is greater than 25%.

When it comes to drying time, urethane sealants need to be left to dry for almost three days while polyurethane sealant is usually dry within 24 hours. This can be a significant difference on projects with a tight deadline. Polyurethane is also a corrosion-resistant material that can emulate metal or plastic surface and it is normally a single component product, meaning it requires no mixing.

When selecting which sealant to use, it is important to consider the application and environment. Polyurethane sealant is recommended for outdoor and weathered decks and floors and serves as an excellent water and UV radiation resistance. Urethane sealant is suitable for indoor use, such as in kitchens and warehouses where industrial spills are more likely to occur.

Polyurethane and urethane sealants are both good options when it comes to choice of sealants; the key is to be aware of the effects of each and how it relates to the project or job you are working with. Polyurethane tend to dry faster and offer a tougher, longer lasting elastic seal, while urethane sealants are more suitable for indoor surfaces and protect better against heavy traffic. Both offer great protective qualities and can be an excellent choice for any sealing project.