When it comes to resinous flooring systems, epoxy has long been the go-to choice for base coats. However, with the advancement of polyaspartic technology, this high-performance coating has emerged as an excellent alternative, offering unique benefits that make it a compelling option for both base coats and top coats.
What is a Polyaspartic?
Polyaspartic coatings are a type of aliphatic polyurea that combines the durability of epoxy with the fast-curing properties of polyurea and offering extra UV-stability. These coatings are known for their exceptional chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, including industrial floors, garage floors, and even decorative concrete surfaces.
Advantages of Using a Polyaspartic as a Base Coat
1. Working and Curing Times
One of the standout features of some polyaspartic coatings, such as RESINUS' US85POLY, is their extended working time compared to polyurea or other traditional fast-setting polyaspartic coatings. This allows for user-friendly application and better workability, especially in larger project areas, while still providing a faster-curing base coat in comparison to most epoxy systems.
2. Versatility
US85POLY can be used as both a base coat and a top coat, simplifying the application process and allowing you to stock only one product instead of separate epoxy base and polyaspartic top coat products. This versatility reduces the need for frequent reordering and streamlines your inventory management.
3. Color Customization
When using US85POLY as a base coat, you can easily customize the color on-site by tinting the base with Solid Color Universal Pigment Pods before broadcasting flake or quartz. This flexibility enables you to carry one product that can be used for both base and top coats, while allowing you to customize the base coat color per job, eliminating the need to stock multiple pre-tinted base coat products.
4. Improved Coverage and Adhesion
Polyaspartic coatings like US85POLY typically offer better coverage per gallon compared to epoxy systems. Additionally, US85POLY boasts superior adhesion to concrete substrates, ensuring a long-lasting bond and minimizing the risk of delamination or peeling.
5. Flexibility and Impact Resistance
Unlike rigid epoxy coatings, polyaspartic systems are more flexible and better able to withstand impact and thermal cycling, making them suitable for applications where movement or temperature fluctuations are expected.
The Future of Resinous Flooring
Polyaspartic coatings like US85POLY offer a compelling alternative to traditional epoxy systems for use as base coats in resinous flooring applications. With their unique combination of working times, versatility, color customization options, improved coverage and adhesion, and enhanced flexibility and impact resistance, these coatings provide contractors with a high-performance solution that streamlines the installation process and delivers long-lasting durability. As the demand for efficient and robust flooring solutions continues to grow, polyaspartic coatings are poised to become an increasingly popular choice in the resinous flooring industry.