Are you looking for a suitable and efficient finish for your DIY projects? If you are, then you just clicked on the right article!
Making a decision on which sealant to use for indoor and outdoor furniture and surfaces can be confusing, especially when you don’t have the slightest clue about them. Worry no more, as I have the solution to your problem in this article. In this article, I compare polycrylic and polyurethane sealants and their pros, cons, and specifications. Read on, so you make an informed decision while making purchases.
What are the differences?
| Polycrylic | Polyurethane | |
| Suitability | Used in indoor projects like cabinets and indoor furniture | Used in exterior projects like outdoor furniture and floors |
| Toxicity | Is environment friendly | Has toxic fumes |
| Drying time | Takes a short time to dry, usually 2 hours | Dries after a long time, usually 4 hours |
| Durability | Does not last long | serves for a long time |
| Composition | Is water-based | Available in both water-based and oil-based forms |
| Price | check price here | check price here |
Polycrylic vs. polyurethane: How do they compare?
- Durability
Polycrylic is a clear finish that is applied to cabinets and indoor furniture. It is water-based and environmentally friendly. However, it does not last for long as compared to polyurethane. It lasts long after application and is more adhesive to the surface. Also, it comes with both water-based and oil-based options.
In this category, polyurethane wins over polycrylic as it is more durable.
- Drying time
When you apply polycrylic on a surface, making a thin, even layer, it takes only 2 hours to dry up and be ready for the top coat completely. Also, it dries evenly and retains the original color of your wood. On the other hand, polyurethane is much thicker and takes longer to dry. It takes about 4 hours to dry and prepare for a second coat.
In this category, polycrylic takes the lead as it dries off more quickly than polyurethane.
Polycrylic vs. polyurethane: Comparison Overview
Polycrylic
- PROTECT WOOD SURFACES – Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish protects and adds beauty to your interior wood projects, including woodwork, furniture, doors and cabinets. The clear top coat protects against scratches, spills, dirt and more.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR FINISH THAT LASTS – The crystal clear finished offered in this protective coating is ideal for use over all Minwax Oil-Based and Water-Based Stains and colors, as well as all wood species including light woods like maple, ash and birch.
- SATIN SHEEN – Give your wood projects a sleek finish with a satin clear varnish. It not only protects the natural beauty of the wood, but offers an attractive, classic sheen for a modern and subtle look. It’s also non-yellowing, non-ambering and low odor.
If you are looking for a sealant for your cabinets and interior furniture, then polycrylic is the best choice. It is easily cleaned with water and soap, does not change the color of your wood, and is environmentally friendly.
Pros
- It dries off quickly
- It retains the woods original color
- Is environment friendly
Cons
- Only available in the water-based form
Polyurethane
- PROTECT WOOD SURFACES – Minwax Polyurethane Wood Finish protects interior projects like woodwork, furniture, floors and cabinets. The oil-based, clear top coat is one of the most durable coatings for wood protection against scratches, spills and more.
- OIL-BASED DURABLE FINISH – Clear finish provides long-lasting protection and warm beauty to both finished and unfinished wood projects. Protective coating is ideal for woodwork, furniture, doors, cabinets & floors, and is available in a variety of sheens.
- SATIN SHEEN – Give your wood projects a sleek finish with this satin clear varnish. It not only protects the natural beauty of the wood, but offers a soft, unique sheen for a modern, cozy and on-trend look.
Polyurethane sealant is the best for the best results in floors, outdoor furniture, and other outdoor DIY projects. It has high resilience to heat and water and lasts for a long. Also, you choose whether to buy an oil-based or water-based sealant, depending on your need.
Pros
- Is very durable
- Has multiple choices
- It has high heat and water resistance
Cons
- Has toxic fumes
Verdict; which one is the better sealant?
The better sealant is polyurethane, which lasts longer, and is available in both water-based and oil-based forms. Though polycrylic is also effective, it still has a long way to go before competing.
FAQs
Will polycrylic turn yellow over time?
Unlike polyurethane, polycrylic does not turn yellow with time. Since it is a clear coat, it retains the wood’s original color.