Polyurea is one of the most versatile, long-lasting, and durable protective coatings used in the building and construction industry. It was initially developed in the late 1980s and was used primarily in the automotive industry. Over the years the use of polyurea coatings has continued to expand across a variety of industrial, commercial, and residential applications.
What Is a Polyurea Coating?
Polyurea coatings are comprised of two basic components: a base and a hardener. They are derived from the chemical reaction that occurs when isocyanate and an amine resin are combined. This reaction occurs rapidly within a few seconds and, for that reason, polyurea must be quickly and expertly applied using state-of-the-art technology. Polyurea has an industry-leading tensile strength, making it one of the strongest protective materials on the market.
In the right environment and with proper maintenance, polyurea can last over 30 years before it needs touching up, repairs, or replacement.
What Are the Benefits of Polyurea Coatings?
There are a lot of time- and money-saving benefits to using polyurea to protect concrete floors, foundations, water and wastewater tanks, roofs, bridge decks, truck beds, primary or secondary containment tanks, mining equipment, etc.
Highly Durable and Flexible
Polyurea is a lot stronger than traditional coating materials like epoxy and polyurethane. It provides unmatched flexibility, can withstand high and low temperature variations, and can be applied year-round regardless of weather conditions. Polyurea also boasts high impact, chemical resistance, and abrasion resistance.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
When fully cured, polyurea provides a smooth, flexible, yet durable and solid surface that’s easy to clean and maintain. Polyurea is a low-maintenance protective coating that can withstand sanitization and power washing techniques, making it ideal in food manufacturing and healthcare facilities.
Consistent Long-Lasting Results
As mentioned, with proper maintenance and regular cleaning, polyurea coatings can last 30 years or more before needing repairs or replacement.
Excellent Chemical Resistance
Polyurea coatings provide a fast-curing, durable, and flexible protective barrier that prevents water damage and harmful chemicals from destroying virtually any structure. Polyurea is also resistant to petroleum-based and caustic chemicals.
Strong Waterproofing Capabilities
One of the main applications of polyurea is for waterproofing a wide range of structures, including concrete flooring in garages, roofing systems, balconies, terraces, parking garages, wastewater facilities, etc. Polyurea coatings are also suitable for waterproofing and protecting polyurethane foam.
Environmentally Friendly
Polyurea is 100% solids with no solvents or VOCs, which makes it environmentally friendly. Polyurea is perfectly safe for the environment and doesn’t pose any health risks for humans or wildlife during or post-application.
Easy Application and Rapid Curing
Polyurea is evenly applied using a specialized plural component spray system. Once the liquid has been sprayed onto the surface the polyurea cures within seconds. This minimizes the amount of downtime for businesses and allows the structure to return to use much faster than other protective waterproofing coatings on the market.
Polyurea Coatings from IMC Distributors
IMC Distributors is proud to be the exclusive provider of ISOMAT building materials and products in Canada. We’re also the master distributor for Lab Surface in Ontario and we distribute Protocol Concrete Protection Products that are designed with Innercrete technology. Our mission is to provide the latest product advancements and the most efficient installation methods. Contact us today to learn more.
Karli Logan is the Owner and President of IMC Distributors which is the exclusive partner of Nukote Coating Systems in Canada. With a B.Sc and M.Sc, as well as a demonstrated history of working across a number of industries, she has a passion to drive significant gains and benefits for IMC’s clients.