Polycrylic vs. polyurethane: what’s the difference?

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

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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

 

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Polyurethane

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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

 

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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.