What is PU Paint?

PU paint, or polyurethane paint, is a high-performance coating. It delivers exceptional protection and durability across various surfaces. PU stands for Polyurethane, a material renowned for its flexibility, abrasion resistance, and UV stability. This versatile coating is commonly used in areas where resilience against weathering, wear, and chemicals is required. From here on in, we will be referring to PU paint as Polyurethane.

So, why choose Polyurethane over other coatings? One key factor is its ability to withstand harsh conditions better than many alternatives, including epoxy paints. While epoxies are incredibly tough, they tend to lack the flexibility and UV resistance that Polyurethane offers. This makes Polyurethane a popular choice for outdoor and high-traffic environments.

When to Use Polyurethane Over Epoxy

When Rawlins’ technical team evaluates a project, they often recommend two-pack Polyurethane coatings for surfaces requiring extra protection from UV exposure and abrasion. Unlike epoxies, which can become brittle or discoloured when exposed to sunlight, Polyurethane remains flexible and colour-stable. This makes it ideal for wood applications, where natural expansion and contraction occur, or for surfaces constantly exposed to the elements.

Two-pack Polyurethane systems, such as Jotun Hardtop XP, Sherwin Williams Acrolon 7300, and Rust-Oleum 9200 Rust-O-Thane, are often used as a final, protective layer over epoxies. These products ensure that surfaces remain protected from UV damage while maintaining their structural integrity and appearance.

Polyurethane in Flooring and Industrial Applications

Polyurethane is not just limited to wood or outdoor applications. It is also commonly used in self-levelling floor systems, where chemical resistance and custom colours are essential. These systems are applied in millimetres of thickness rather than microns. This ensures a smooth, durable surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic and industrial use.

For example, the Teamac High Performance Polyurethane Topcoat is a popular product for both wood and industrial applications. Its versatility allows it to be applied to various surfaces, from floors to machinery, where flexibility and abrasion resistance are crucial.

For industrial areas like machinery, car parks, or anti-corrosion applications, Rawlins’ team typically suggests epoxy coatings due to their strength. However, when UV resistance or additional flexibility is required, Polyurethane coatings become the preferred choice. In environments where both durability and aesthetic longevity are needed, Polyurethane delivers superior performance.

Why Choose Polyurethane?

Polyurethane coatings provide a combination of flexibility, toughness, and UV stability. This makes them stand out from traditional coatings like epoxies. Whether you’re working on a wooden deck, an industrial floor, or a piece of machinery exposed to the elements, Polyurethane offers long-lasting protection and excellent performance.

By choosing the right two-pack Polyurethane system, like those recommended by Rawlins, you ensure that your surfaces not only look great but also stand up to the challenges of time, weather, and wear. Got a question about polyurethane or epoxy coatings? Leave a comment below for one of Rawlins’ technical experts to answer, or give contact them directly on 0113 2455450 (option 2) or send a message to [email protected].