Urethane coating
From Floor Coverings
Contents |
What is a urethane coating?
What are the two types of coatings for flooring?
Urethanes for floor applications come in two basic types -- water and oil based. Water based urethane is newer and has proven to be quite long lasting. Heavy foot traffic such as in athletic indoor gyms etc. usually require the commercial oil based urethane finishes. If you are in the mood for these glossy and heavy duty types, contact a hardwood flooring manufacturer as they know where to get them. Many sources on the web will provide information also. If you just can't find these heavy duty urethanes, go with a major brand from a quality paint store. You have to make sure that it's for floors and not just for furniture or other light duty application uses. There is such a variance in uses for urethane that if you pick the wrong type it could be a waste of money. Sound advice may be needed in order to make a wise choice.
Concrete flooring and urethane coating.
Concrete floor paints that are urethane may fade less from sunlight or chemicals than epoxy. An epoxy primer should be laid down over concrete first, then the urethane applied. The urethane is used as a top coat over everything else. Floor sealers (solvent type) made from urethane come in many shapes and forms, so do research before you purchase, or consider. The higher the solids percentage, the better the wear ability of the urethane. The high solids type is extremely flammable when wet so always use caution. Water based urethane sealers look great but they do not wear as well as the solvent ones. They may need replenishing in about a year with moderate foot traffic. Again, judge your use for the urethane and seek advice from a good site on the web in order to make a good decision.
Epoxy coating and the two part system.
When you have an epoxy floor sealer it is the usual two part system. Its wear ability is about the same as the solvent based urethane. Solvent based urethane floor coverings can go up to 100% solids. They are usually low in VOCs and don't have much odor. Life expectancy is about four or five years and they, too, are flammable. Watch put on the flammability of these and other sealers and floor coatings. When wet, and like a lot of other similar products, the chances of the product catching fire are increased so much caution is needed when applying.
Safety precautions for urethane coatings.
Instructions for every type of product are out there -- make sure you notice what safety cautions are advised and if a mask is recommended for those who are chemically sensitive or allergic. When you are doing research on the product it may be a good idea to see what you can do if you get some on your shoes or similar. Bone up on precautions, and all will go well.
