Tips for Installing High Traffic Urethanes
by Daniel Owen - R&D Leader, Specialty Flooring
Over the last five years, high traffic urethanes have become increasingly popular. They are typically 90% solids or higher, moisture curing and filled with finely ground aluminum oxide partials. This combination creates a coating that is extremely abrasion and chemical resistant.
While high traffic urethanes have great performance, there can be a bit of a learning curve for contractors who are installing them for the first time. The method of application and film thickness is very important. If not installed properly, the final finish will be less than desirable.
Dip & Roll
Unlike standard epoxies and urethanes, you do not want to pour the material onto the floor, and then squeegee and back roll. Installing the coating in this manner could cause the film to be too thick, which creates numerous problems. In my opinion, the best way to install these coatings is to use 18-inch rollers and pans. Dip and role, and then cross roll the floor. For a floor that’s 20 to 25 feet wide, you would need three installers using the dip-and-roll method to apply the material, with one installer cross rolling the entire floor. The process makes the installation go very quickly and minimizes the likelihood of roller marks.
Think Thin
It’s also crucial to pay attention to the thickness of the application. High traffic urethanes must be applied thinly. The typical application rate is 400 to 450 square-feet-per-gallon. If you apply them too thickly, the coating will get micro bubbles in the film. If you really overdo it, you could get large blisters – forcing you to refinish the entire project. Sanding these coatings down is not easy due to the presence of aluminum oxide.
When it is all said and done, high traffic urethanes aren’t anything to be afraid of. Just follow these simple steps and pay attention to your coverage. Don’t hesitate to contact us for additional application tips.
- ›› Commercial & Industrial Coating
- ›› high traffic urethanes
- ›› application methods